Worker safety

Employers urged to step up as crucial modern slavery role still unfilled

Last week’s appointment of a new home secretary, Suella Braverman, has highlighted a crucial and legally necessary role in the fight against modern slavery still remains vacant.

News

Could we really see new laws on temperature in the workplace?

Earlier this week, the GMB workers' union called for a legal limit on how hot it can be in a workplace, as the Met Office issued its red weather warning for extreme heat. 

UK worker loses Covid safety tribunal

A UK worker who lost his job for refusing to go to work due to Covid safety concerns has been unsuccessful in his appeal to the employment tribunal.

HSE introduces risk assessments for pregnant workers

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has updated its guidance for employers of pregnant women or new mothers.

Pandemic highlights North/South divide in mental health

More people in the south of England have said their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic (46%) than those in the North (39%), however Southerners are more likely to take time off...

Could no isolation result in stronger restrictions by employers?

All Covid measures in England are due to end at the end of February, including the legal requirement on people with coronavirus to self-isolate.

What an Omicron Plan B means for businesses

Yesterday the British government announced that England will be moving to Plan B due to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

First psychological health and safety standard awarded to UK business

The British Standards Institution has awarded its first certificate for psychological health and safety at work.

HR needs to prepare for winter COVID plan

Following the government’s unveiling of its 2021 autumn and winter plan, employers in England are being urged to prepare for a return to restrictions as a worst-case scenario.

Morrisons to cut sick pay for unvaccinated, isolating employees

Supermarket chain Morrisons has come under fire after outlining a policy that will mean unvaccinated employees are not entitled to sick pay if they have to self-isolate.

UK workers unsure how to help colleagues experiencing abuse

Less than half (40%) of British workers said they would not know how to help a colleague experiencing domestic abuse, indicating the need for visible support across UK workplaces.

Return to work anxiety – how can businesses bring staff back safely?

After more than a year of remote work, employees are now being forced to consider the prospect of the return to the office. For many, this will be a huge relief, ending months of isolation and solely...