The Government’s Regulator of Social Housing has recently highlighted health and safety as a key strategic risk facing the housing associations. Stephen Flounders investigates.

Last month, the majority of your calls to our helpline have been geared around policies and legislation. Two new entries have appeared in the top five categories: construction and fire queries. For advice on these or any other health and safety issues, speak to qualified consultant on 0844 561 8149.

While practical jokes and pranks at work can be considered a natural way of letting off steam, some actions can pose a serious health and safety threat. Mike Sopp looks at recent and historical cases that show how “horseplay”, when it goes wrong, can have a serious impact on both individuals and the employer.

The festive season is a time for responsible fun and not officialdom, says the Health and Safety Executive. It is a good time of year to reflect on lessons learned and priorities for the year ahead without being a health and safety kill-joy, finds Jon Herbert.

Why manage mental health?

Ergonomics is about finding the perfect “fit” between people and their work, putting workers first and taking account of their capabilities and limitations. To illustrate exactly how great ergonomics can truly support and enhance health in the workplace, the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) recently published some inspiring case studies featuring cutting-edge work design. Vicky Powell highlights the most interesting cases.

Barrister Robert Spicer reports on key case law relating to risk assessments for new and expectant mothers.

On 7 November 2018, Yeovil Magistrates’ Court ordered Ablebox Ltd to pay £13,000 in fines and costs following a pollution incident which turned the River Yeo purple.

With figures from Europe suggesting 20% of all accidents are related to maintenance activities, the need to undertake a suitable and sufficient risk assessment for maintenance work is clear. Mike Sopp reports.

When the UK leaves the EU, the Government has stressed that it will maintain workers’ rights by ensuring that the extensive health and safety regulations built up over many years continue to provide an unchanged high level of workplace protection. Jon Herbert investigates.