Embracing Health and Safety in the Workplace in 2024

28th April 2024

By Sarah Douglas, RHG Head of Operations

The landscape of workplace health and safety continues to evolve and organisations must stay ahead of the curve to ensure the safety, health and well-being of their employees and compliance with regulations. As recognised by the theme of this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28^th April climate change is an added threat that brings additional challenges.

RHG deliver training for Safety, Health and Environment (SHE), particularly through the Safety Health and Environment Technician and Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner Apprenticeship programmes.  

Key trends that should be on every SHE team’s radar:

• Resilience and Preparedness – The workplace faces unforeseen challenges, such as pandemics, natural disasters, and cyber threats. Organisations must enhance resilience and preparedness. Develop robust contingency plans, educate employees, and ensure business continuity during crises.

• Technological Advancements and Total Worker Health – In 2024, technology plays a pivotal role in all our lives. Examples are wearable devices monitoring vital signs to AI-driven risk assessments. Therefore, organisations must embrace innovation. Additionally, a holistic approach to worker health—physical, mental, and emotional—is gaining prominence. Encourage wellness programs, mental health support, and ergonomic workspaces.

• The Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete RAAC Crisis – Similar to asbestos, Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) poses risks. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) warns that RAAC may collapse suddenly. If you suspect RAAC in a building, engage a building surveyor or structural engineer. Conduct risk assessments promptly, involve the HSE, and take necessary reinforcement or removal measures.

Prioritising SHE in any business is essential, even when resources are limited. Here are some practical steps to achieve this without over stretching any organisation:

1. Understand the Basics– Familiarise yourself with health and safety laws relevant to your business. The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HSWA) is the primary legislation in Great Britain.  Regulations vary based on the size and type of business.

2. Risk Assessment – These are the essential basics of risk assessment:
a. Identify hazards (anything that may cause harm) in your workplace. Consider both physical and non-physical risks.
b. Involve employees in risk assessment—they may notice risks you haven’t.
c. Prioritise risks based on severity and likelihood of harm.

3. Control Measures – take reasonable steps to prevent harm. Implement practical solutions. Focus on clear objectives to avoid accidents.

4. Use Available Resources – Reach out to safety suppliers and vendors. They often provide free framework documents and product samples. Make the most of online resources from reputable sources like the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). They will also run webinars, workshops, and training sessions offered by industry experts.

5. Promote a Safety Culture – Do not under estimate the value of something so simple:
a. Educate employees about safety practices.
b. Encourage reporting of near misses and hazards.
c. Foster a positive safety culture where everyone feels responsible for well-being.

Case studies that highlight successful health and safety implementation:

• North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust:
  • Faced with service improvement targets, the board adopted a ‘whole systems’ approach to managing corporate risk.
  • Health and safety was made a key agenda item, resulting in an integrated management system and improved reporting.
  Outcomes: Incidence rates reduced by 16% over two years, and insurance premiums decreased by 10%1.

• British Sugar:
  • Despite an excellent safety record, three fatalities occurred in one year.
  • The CEO assigned health and safety responsibilities to all directors, emphasising behavioural change.
  Results: Time lost to injuries reduced by 43% over two years, and major issues decreased significantly1.

How can we measure the impact of SHE initiatives particularly in a small business – Prioritising health and safety is crucial for continuous improvement and compliance. While resources may be limited, there are practical ways to assess effectiveness:

1. Health and Safety Inspections:
   • Regularly conduct inspections to identify hazards, assess compliance, and evaluate safety measures.
   • Measure the frequency and thoroughness of inspections.
2. Reported Near Misses, Incidents, and Hazards:
   • Track near misses, incidents, and hazards reported by employees.
   • Analyse trends—increasing reports may indicate better awareness and reporting culture.
3. Health and Safety Culture and Engagement:
   • Survey employees to gauge their perception of safety.
   • Measure engagement levels in safety training and initiatives.
4. Training Achievements / Sessions Completed:
   • Monitor completion rates for safety training programs.
   • Assess the effectiveness of training by evaluating changes in behaviour and knowledge.
5. Safety Meetings Attendance:
   • Measure attendance at safety meetings.
   • Evaluate the time spent discussing safety topics.
6. Good Housekeeping:
   • Assess cleanliness and organization in work areas.
   • Measure adherence to housekeeping standards.
7. Audits Completed:
   • Conduct internal or external audits.
   • Evaluate compliance with safety policies and procedures.
8. Time Spent on Your EHS Management System:
   • Measure the time employees spend using your safety management system.
   • A well-utilised system indicates active engagement.
   

Remember, what gets measured gets done. By tracking these metrics, you will gain insights into your SHE performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure a safer workplace for everyone.

References:

1. Top health and safety trends for 2024 | IOSH magazine
2. Workplace Safety in 2024: Predictions and Challenges
3. https://osha.europa.eu/en/publications/business-case-safety-and-health-cost-benefit-analyses-interventions-small-and-medium