Thursday 30 December 2010

New date for Potters Bar rail crash firms prosecution

BBC Article:
Network Rail and a maintenance company will appear in court in February to face health and safety charges over the 2002 Potters Bar train crash.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12089245

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 29 December 2010

Local authorities flood funding announced

Edie.net article:
DEFRA announced funding for local authorities to prepare for flooding today (December 23).

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19193&channel=0&title=Local+authorities+flood+funding+announced+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Bradford takeaway owner fined

HSE Article:
A Bradford takeaway owner has been fined for failing to insure his staff against work-related injuries and illnesses.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-yh-21310.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Train across France completes 'hell on wheels' journey

BBC Article:
A night train on France's famed SNCF rail network arrived 13 hours late after a series of unfortunate events delayed its journey across the country.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-12085167

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Irish Climate Change Bill published

Edie.net article:
Ireland's Climate Change Response Bill 2010 was published today (December 23).

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19195&channel=0&title=Irish+Climate+Change+Bill+published

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Glossop manufacturer fined over worker's death

HSE Article:
A Glossop packaging manufacturer has been fined after a worker was killed when a machine he was working on was activated while he was still inside.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-061glossopcarton.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Pier closes for repairs to damage caused by weather

BBC Article:
Recent snow, ice and freezing temperatures have damaged Southend Pier and it has been closed to the public while repairs are carried out.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-12075421

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Zero carbon homes target confirmed by government

Edie.net article:
The housing minister, Grant Shapps, has confirmed that non-domestic new builds must be zero carbon by 2019.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19194&channel=0&title=Zero+carbon+homes+target+confirmed+by+government+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Winter near miss acts as warning to farmers

HSE Article:
A Scottish farmer who came close to death is hoping that his story encourages others to take extra care as heavy snow and freezing conditions hit Britain's farms for the second winter running.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/hse-agriculturewarning.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Thursday 23 December 2010

Company fined after death of worker at Hydroelectric Plant.

Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service Article:
In Inverness Sheriff Court , Hochtief Construction AG was fined £266,000 (reduced from £400,000 due to their plea of guilty) for a breach of Health and Safety legislation, following the death of Ondrej Hladik, a construction site worker employed by a company contracted to work on a Hochtief project.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.copfs.gov.uk/News/Releases/2010/12/Company-fined-after-death-work-Hydroelectric-Plant

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Severe weather and postponement of sporting events

HSE Article:
There have been various reports and comments in the media alluding to HSE having a role to play in cancelling sporting events during the severe weather we've been experiencing. This is not the case.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/hse-snow.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Greener supermarket guide

Edie.net article:
If you haven't done your Christmas grocery shopping yet, how will you decide which supermarket to go to? The closest or the greenest?

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19191&channel=0&title=Greener+supermarket+guide+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Polish worker dies in ladder fall

HSE Article:
Dutch fumigation company Bergwerff Numansdrop BV, operating in Suffolk, has been fined £60,000 with £21,709 costs after a 42 year-old worker fell to his death from a ladder.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-e-50.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

MPs critical on flood and water funding

Edie.net article:
The cross party Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (DEFRAC) has published a report on flood and water management.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19190&channel=0&title=MPs+critical+on+flood+and+water+funding+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Training failures led to patient death

HSE Article:
A care home operator was today fined £80,000 for serious training failures following the death of a patient as a result of "inappropriate and dangerous" restraint techniques.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-yh-21410.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 22 December 2010

South London lake receives early Christmas stocking filler

Environmental Agency Article:
The first stage in restoring fish stocks in a popular Clapham lake began this week when Environment Agency fisheries staff re-stocked it with 800 young fish.

Mount Pond on Clapham Common has suffered from poor water quality in recent years, which resulted in the death of dozens of carp in 2007 and 2008.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://environment-agency.gov.uk/news/125726.aspx

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

HSE cuts could work against Government’s welfare ambitions

SHP Article:
An influential group of MPs has attacked the Government’s decision to slash the HSE’s budget by 35 per cent by 2014/15, arguing that it is out of synch with the coalition’s aim to get people back into work and off benefits.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/hse-cuts-could-work-against-government-s-welfare-ambitions

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker died on first day at work

HSE Article:
A Newmarket retail display firm has been sentenced after an employee was crushed to death by a stack of glass he was unloading on his first day at work.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-e-49arkenpop.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Viridor wins contract for new BBC site

Edie.net article:
Viridor continue to expand their waste and recycling empire with the award of a tender to manage the recycling and waste services at MediaCityUK, the new northern home of the BBC.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19185&channel=0&title=Viridor+wins+contract+for+new+BBC+site+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Personal-injury lawyers debunk compensation myth

SHP Article:
Despite the fact that more than 120,000 injuries in the workplace were reported to the HSE last year, people are not as willing to jump on the ‘compensation bandwagon’ as is widely believed.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/personal-injury-lawyers-debunk-compensation-myth

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Sawmill fined after worker's leg injured

HSE Article:
An East Lothian sawmilling company has been fined after an employee's leg was seriously injured when he was cutting wood.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sco-21210.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Tuesday 21 December 2010

Air pollution causes early death of 20,000 lives

Edie.net article:
A report has been published today (December 21) on the health effects of air pollution in the UK.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19183&channel=0&title=Air+pollution+causes+early+death+of+20%2C000+lives+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

New leadership team to take IOSH into next decade

SHP Article:
IOSH is to start the new year with a new team at the top to help the institution further its plans for growth and expansion.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/new-leadership-team-to-take-iosh-into-next-decade

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Pharmaceutical workers exposed to hazardous substance

HSE Article:
A Swindon pharmaceutical company has been fined after a number of its employees were sensitised to a potent substance and developed allergic contact dermatitis.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sw-833.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Friday 17 December 2010

Preventing Fire

Fire can break out at any time. As you read this guidance there is probably a fire somewhere. Not only can people be killed or injured, but fires can also be financially devastating to those involved.

Prevent fire occurring:
Most fires have simple causes and can be dealt with by simple precautions. The following are particularly important:
Make sure flammable materials are properly stored.
Flammable materials such as solvents and adhesives should be stored in lockable steel containers;
Keep a tidy site and make sure rubbish is cleared away promptly and regularly;
Avoid unnecessary stockpiling of combustible materials, e.g. polystyrene, and store what is necessary away from ignition sources.
Make sure everyone abides by site rules on smoking.
Make sure LPG is stored outside or in well ventilated and secure area.

Preparing for fire if it happens:
Fires can grow extremely rapidly. If a fire occurs the primary aim is to ensure that all those on site reach safety as soon as possible. Delay can be fatal. Site staff may need to fight a fire to enable their escape, but tackling larger fires is the fire brigade’s task.

Raising the alarm:
If fire breaks out the alarm should be raised as soon as the first person discovers it.

Means of escape:
People can easily become trapped, especially where they are working above or below ground level. In such cases means of escape need careful consideration. Make sure that wherever possible, there are at least two escape routes in different directions; travel distances to safety are reduced to a minimum; enclosed escape routes, for example corridors or stairwells, can resist fire and smoke ingress from the surrounding site. Where fire doors are needed for this make sure they are provided and kept closed (self-closing devices should be fitted to doors on enclosed escape routes); escape routes and emergency exits are clearly signed; escape routes and exits are kept clear.

Emergency exits should never be locked when people are on the site; emergency lighting is installed if necessary to enable escape. This is especially important in enclosed stairways in multi-storey structures which will be in total darkness if the normal lighting fails during a fire; l an assembly point is identified where everyone can gather and be accounted for.

Fire-fighting equipment:
The equipment needed depends on the risk of fire occurring and the likely consequences if it does. It can range from a single extinguisher on small low-risk sites to complex fixed installations on large and high-risk sites. Whatever equipment is needed make sure that: fire equipment is located where it is really needed and is easily accessible; the location of fire-fighting equipment and how to use it is clearly indicated; the right sort of extinguishers are provided for the type of fire that could occur. A combination of water or foam extinguishers for paper and wood fires and CO2 extinguishers for fires involving electrical equipment is usually appropriate; the equipment provided is maintained and works.

Fire-fighting equipment should be checked regularly by a competent person - often from the manufacturer; those carrying out hot work have appropriate fire extinguishers with them and know how to use them.

Emergency plans:
The purpose of emergency plans is to ensure that everyone on site reaches safety if there is a fire. Small and low-risk sites only require very simple plans, but higher risk sites will need more careful and detailed consideration. An emergency plan should: be available before work starts; be up to date and appropriate for the circumstances concerned; make clear who does what during a fire. Fire drills need to be conducted annually. On smaller sites: - you should know what you need to do if there is a fire; - managers need to make sure that everyone on their sites knows what to do; - regular checks should be made to ensure that fire precautions are in place.

Providing information:
Fire action notices should be clearly displayed where everyone on site will see them, for example at fire points, site entrances or canteen areas.

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker breaks back in fall after electric shock

HSE Article:
A subcontractor fell more than five metres from a crane ladder after suffering an electric shock at one of the UK's largest timber merchants, a court heard.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-e-48.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Ireland's Climate Change Bill agreed

Edie.net article:
Mr John Gormley TD Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government today (16 December 16) outlined the details of the proposed Climate Change Bill.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19172&channel=0&title=Ireland%27s+Climate+Change+Bill+agreed+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Essex nursery 'wiped out' girl's death

BBC Article:
A toddler's death at an Essex nursery was effectively "wiped from the slate" when it re-registered under a slightly different name, an inquest has heard.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-12004187

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Passivhaus homes to benefit from high performance insulation

Edie.net article:
Construction has begun on the largest Passivhaus development in the UK.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19163&channel=2&title=Passivhaus+homes+to+benefit+from+high+performance+insulation+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker's fingers crushed in bakery rolling machine

HSE Article:
A Perth-based bakery has been fined after a worker was seriously injured when he caught his hand in the rollers of a machine.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sco-21010.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

US launches lawsuit against BP

Edie.net article:
A lawsuit has been filled against BP for damages following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the worst environmental disaster in US history.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19164&channel=3&title=US+launches+lawsuit+against+BP+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Lung disease former MG Rover workers get compensation

BBC Article:
A group of 79 ex-MG Rover workers have received compensation for what experts said was the largest such outbreak of occupational lung disease in the world.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-12014082

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Three injured in garage gas explosion in Gloucester

BBC Article:
The fire service said the blast was believed to have been caused by fumes from an oxyacetylene tank igniting.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-12011783

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Northern Ireland Water told to cut costs

Edie.net article:
The regulator for utilities in Northern Ireland has assessed Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) and found it needs to cut costs by 40%.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19170&channel=4&title=Northern+Ireland+Water+told+to+cut+costs+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Surrey businessman ignored health and safety warnings

HSE Article:
A Surrey-based businessman who ignored notices to stop dangerous work at his premises on an industrial estate in Guildford has been sentenced.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-se-1611.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

BT to appeal against £300k fine for ladder fatality

SHP Article:
British Telecom has been fined £300,000 for failing to create a safe system-of-work for an employee who fell to his death while carrying out installation work.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/bt-to-appeal-against-300k-fine-for-ladder-fatality

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wales holds its head high on recycling

Edie.net article:
Wales is the first country in the UK to adopt statutory targets for recycling.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19171&channel=5&title=Wales+holds+its+head+high+on+recycling+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Consultation opens in January on RIDDOR changes

HSE Article:
The Health and Safety Executive yesterday agreed a plan for the publication of consultation documents on proposed changes to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR).

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/hse-riddor.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker killed while crushing unmarked hazardous waste

SHP Article:
Two companies and a manager must pay £500,000 in fines and costs after a worker caught fire when an aerosol canister he was crushing exploded.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/worker-killed-while-crushing-unmarked-hazardous-waste

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

DECC announce energy market reform details

Edie.net article:
The coalition government today (November 16) announced the specifics of their reform of the energy market.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19173&channel=6&title=DECC+announce+energy+market+reform+details+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 15 December 2010

Culvert work next phase of Wakefield flood scheme

Environmental Agency Article:
The £13 million scheme to cut flood risk to hundreds of properties in Wakefield is moving into its next phase.

This week work begins to install two additional culverts on Ings Beck to increase capacity under Westgate at Maudeline Bridge.

At present, the structure is too small to carry the flow of water during a flood and part of the culvert’s roof is so damaged that it could collapse.

The Environment Agency scheme will help to reduce the risk of flooding to more than 700 homes and businesses from Ings Beck, as well as cutting the flood risk from other watercourses, including the River Calder, Balne Beck and Alverthorpe Beck.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/news/125593.aspx

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Fencing firm ignored safety notices

HSE Article:
A Gloucester fencing company ignored orders to provide access to hot running water for staff and to ensure its local exhaust ventilation system was working.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sw-ww1412a.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Print firm fined after worker hurt in lorry incident

HSE Article:
A 10-year-old equipment fault at a stationery supply firm saw a worker sustain serious injuries after he was caught between a reversing lorry and a loading platform.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sw-ww1412.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

First electric cars to qualify for £5,000 grant revealed

Edie.net article:
The Government hopes 2011 could be the year of the electric car as it today (December 14) announces the first nine electric cars to qualify for its 25% grant.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19156&channel=0&title=First+electric+cars+to+qualify+for+%26%23163%3B5%2C000+grant+revealed

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Firm fined after roofer breaks back

HSE Article:
A roofing contractor from East London broke his back when falling through the skylight of a building extension, after safety procedures were overloooked.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-ldn-1412.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Northern Ireland Water admits river pollution

Edie.net article:
Northern Ireland Water has pleaded guilty to allowing sewage to power into a watercourse.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19155&channel=0&title=Northern+Ireland+Water+admits+river+pollution+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Energy firm fined £130k for power-line fatality

SHP Article:
A member of the public was killed by a swinging power line as he tried to warn motorists to avoid running over the cable after it fell on to a busy road.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/energy-firm-fined-130k-for-power-line-fatality

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Excavator firm fined after worker's fingers severed

HSE Article:
A worker had two fingers severed when his hand was caught in the drilling machine he was operating at one of the UK's major producers of construction and mining equipment.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-ne-28710.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Contaminated land cleanup Superfund turns 30

Edie.net article:
America's contaminated land cleanup fund has marked 30 years of tackling a legacy of pollution across the country.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19154&channel=0&title=Contaminated+land+cleanup+Superfund+turns+30

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

North-Sea helicopter safety system goes live

SHP Article:
Oil & Gas UK and NATS, the UK’s air-navigation service provider, have announced the world’s first operational use of wide-area multi-lateration technology for tracking offshore flights.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/north-sea-helicopter-safety-system-goes-live

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Company fined after man crushed by truck

HSE Article:
A Buckinghamshire engineering company has been fined £30,000 after a worker was crushed to death at its premises.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-se-1312.htmhttp://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-se-1312.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Monday 13 December 2010

An Very Green Christmas

A Watse Online Article:

A feast of waste

* Overflowing dustbins and extra bags of rubbish are a common sight in the streets after Christmas. We all create more waste over the holiday period.

* The Royal Mail delivers around 150 million cards and packets each day during the pre-Christmas period. It is estimated that up to 1 billion Christmas cards (17 for every man, woman and child) could end up in bins across the UK.

* 7.5 million Christmas trees were bought in 2001. Some councils reported their Christmas tree recycling activities for early 2001 to EnCams. The total number of Christmas trees reported to be recycled was nearly 1.2 million.

* It is estimated that over Christmas as much as 83 square km of wrapping paper will end up in UK rubbish bins, enough to cover an area larger than Guernsey.

* We could use an extra 750 million bottles and glass containers, and 500 million drinks cans. About 20% to 30% more glass and cans are collected each year over the Christmas period.

Why bother?

The amount of waste we produce and our main methods of disposal are currently not sustainable. The production, treatment and disposal of waste can all harm the environment. This is not just because of the problems with landfill, incineration or other disposal options - it is also because we use new resources to replace ones we have thrown out. It is estimated that for every tonne of waste produced in our homes, five tonnes has already been produced in manufacturing and 10 tonnes at the point where the raw material was extracted. About 600 million tonnes of raw resources are used in the UK per year, 570 million tonnes of which end up as waste losses through energy, water, solid wastes and other emissions.

As a result of our lifestyles, on average every household in the UK throws away 1.2 tonnes of waste every year. This amounts to a staggering 30 million tonnes in total.

In just a fortnight we each throw away from home, amongst other things, five glass bottles or jars, six cans, seven plastic bottles and three and a half kg of paper and card. A massive 60% of our household waste could be recycled or composted, but most of it is still deposited in landfill sites. Nearly 23% of domestic waste was recycled and composted in England in 2004/05. We need to find ways to not only recycle more, but also to reduce and reuse our waste. We need to focus our efforts and change our habits and what better time than during the Christmas period; a new approach for a New Year!

How's, what's and where's of recycling at Christmas

Food and drink

* When shopping, avoid goods which involve unnecessary packaging or complicated mixed material packaging which can make recycling difficult.

* Try to buy food and drink packaged in materials that can be recycled in your area, such as paper and glass.

* Order any extra milk in returnable bottles from the milkman to avoid plastic bottles or cartons from the supermarket.

* Buy drinks, like lemonade or beer, in large containers, rather than in a lot of small ones. One large bottle results in less waste than a lot of small cans and it's more economical. Alternatively, buy drinks concentrates that can be diluted.

* SNUB - Say No to Unwanted Bags! Always use a reusable shopping bag or reuse plastic bags. Don't accept bags that you don't need.

* Avoid using paper plates, cups and serviettes if you are planning a party.

Shopping for presents

* Buy gifts which are durable. Things which break easily will just end up in the bin and cannot be reused by anybody.

* Where possible avoid buying (or requesting) presents which rely on disposable parts, including batteries. Always look for alternatives, eg a coffee maker that uses a washable filter rather than throwaway paper ones, or a wind-up/solar powered radio.

* Buy Recycled! Buying products that have a recycled content is just as important as actually recycling. It is essential that markets for recycled products are developed. Look out for unusual gifts made from recycled materials, such as glass tableware, stationery or photo frames. The Recycled Products Guide is a searchable directory of products made from recycled materials and contains over 1,000 products. www.recycledproducts.org.uk
The Recyclenow website also has a directory of products made from recycled materials., www.recyclenow.com

* If you're not sure what to buy, why not give money or gift vouchers? You can buy garden centre, cinema or theatre ticket vouchers. For example, Charity Gift Tokens www.charitygifttokens.org are a not for profit organisation selling gift tokens which give the receiver the chance to support a favourite charity and avoid wasteful production of unwanted goods at the same time.You can also give vouchers for use in high street stores and book shops.

* How about buying a gift that will last for a whole year? Examples include: sponsorship of an animal, membership of an organisation or subscription to a magazine.

* Consider buying presents that are environmentally friendly or produced in a sustainable way. Support your local charity shop, buy presents from charity catalogues and look for Fair Trade alternatives.

Wrapping and decorating

* Choose decorations which can be reused, rather than flimsy ones which will be used once and thrown away. You can also have fun making decorations from scrap materials.

* Cut down on what you buy. Gift tags can be made from old greetings cards. Any kind of unusual paper can be used to wrap gifts.

* Save envelopes and reuse them with reuse labels, available from Freinds of Earth and many charity catalogues and shops.

* Buy recycled wrapping paper and use string, ribbon or wool for wrapping gifts, rather than using sticky tape. The string and paper can then be reused. The WWF has an online store that supplies recycled wrapping paper: http://shop.wwf.org.uk/store/Home.aspx .

Recycling Christmas cards and trees

* The Woodland Trust has announced that people will be able to recycle their Christmas cards at all WH Smith high street stores and all major Tesco stores across the UK, following Christmas 2005. The scheme, is being launched on the 2nd January 2006, although bins will be present throughout January. Last year's campaign ensured the recycling of 58 million Christmas cards (the equivalent 1150 tonnes!), and the Trust are aiming to beat the 60 million mark this time. For further details visit The Woodland Trust website at www.woodland-trust.org.uk/recycling.

* If you have a favourite charity, check to see if their local charity shop is collecting old Christmas cards and stamps. Stamps can also be handed in to your local Oxfam shop.

* Instead of sending a card, why not send a message or electronic Christmas card to friends and family on the internet . Alternatively, if you normally send cards to multiple recipients at the same address, such as in the workplace, why not place just one card in a communal area and pledge the money you have saved to charity?

* Buy a UK-grown real tree with roots that can be planted in your garden or kept in a pot for next year. Artificial trees are a good alternative as they can be used many times, but as they are usually made of a number of different materials, including plastics, they are difficult to recycle once they are no longer required.

* Contact your local authority to check if it has a scheme for chipping and composting trees to produce mulch/soil improver.

General

* Set yourself a challenge - how empty can you keep your bin? Think about how you can reduce the amount of waste you produce at home and at work. Try to buy long lasting items rather than disposable ones and avoid over-packaged items.

* What can you do with the waste you do create? There are now many things that can be recycled such as shoes and clothes, cardboard, cards and foil and plastic, as well as the usual bottles, cans and paper. Work out where you can store recyclables until you can take them to a recycling point.

* Find your local recycling facilities by using the "where to recycle" facility on the Recycle Now website http://www.recyclenow.com/. Alternatively you can contact your local council recycling officer for more information about facilities in your area, contact details of which can be found on the same site.

* Try to plan journeys to recycling facilities around essential trips such as shopping, this helps to minimise environmental impact and will save you time.

* Pass any unwanted presents on to your local charity shop rather than throwing them away - there is sure to be someone who will like them!

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
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Christmas health and safety tips

From sinking one glass of Champagne too many to taking a tumble while putting up the office Christmas decorations, there could be many potential dangers facing people during the festive season.

Heres some tips on staying safe and legal this Christmas

* Know your limit: Theres one thing waking up the morning after the night before with a hangover, and another finding yourself on the wrong side of the law. The legal drink driving limit for people in the UK is no more than 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.

This is often believed to be the equivalent to two pints of ordinary strength beer. For a man of average weight, this is broadly true, but should not be used as a general rule. In fact, anyone trying to drink up to the limit runs a serious risk of exceeding it and therefore it is far safer and wiser to not drink at all before driving especially considering it is even possible to be charged with driving or attempting to drive under the influence of drink or drugs even with a level below 80mg per 100ml.

* Office rules: If youre going to be serving alcohol at the party, make sure youve read your companys alcohol policy if there is one. You may need to make sure you have the personnel department or your managers agreement if your policy prohibits alcohol at work.

* Stay calm: Keep a close eye on those who may drink too much alcohol makes some people aggressive rather than friendly. The party will be spoiled if it ends in a punch up or harassment complaint.

* Head for heights: Use a stepladder to put up the decorations never stand on a swivel chair, as it could send you spinning to the ground.

* Sparks shouldnt fly: Offices are crammed with electrical appliances, which could be a fire hazard if their air vents get blocked. Remember to hang any tinsel or garlands well away from lights and other sources of heat, such as computers.

* Emergency exit: Dont obscure emergency exit signs with decorations. Some party guests may not be familiar with your offices procedures for an emergency, so will rely on signs to find their way out of the building.

* Allergy alert: Party balloons can cause severe reactions potentially deadly in people who are allergic to latex. Around 3.6million people in Britain suffer from some degree of latex allergy.

* Safety first: More than 1,000 people were injured by Christmas trees last year, so be careful when putting them up. Make sure they are secure and wont be knocked.

* Food for thought: Keep fresh party food in a fridge, and dont leave it out in a hot office all day. Remember to keep fresh and cooked meats separate.

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Cancun ends in agreement ... sort of

Edie.net article:
International pressure on delegates at COP16 resulted in a very basic deal on bringing down emissions and cash for a green climate change fund.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19143&channel=0&title=Cancun+ends+in+agreement+...+sort+of+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
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Builder prosecuted for ignoring health and safety rules

HSE Article:
A builder whose employees were forced to work in unsanitary conditions, with no toilet or washing facilities, in Rochdale has appeared in court.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-058connolly.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
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Official opening for NI wastewater treatment plant

Edie.net article:
A new state-of-the-art £23 million waste water plant has been officially opened in Northern Ireland by the regional development minister.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19145&channel=0&title=Official+opening+for+NI+wastewater+treatment+plant+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker's lives put in danger at Manchester Karaoke bar

HSE Article:
The owners of a new karaoke bar in Manchester risked the lives of workers and the public after a string of fire safety procedures were ignored during construction.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-047chiyip.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Government to embark on employment-law compliance review

SHP Article:
The Government has announced plans to review the arrangements it has in place to enforce various employment laws, including gangmaster licensing.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/government-to-embark-on-employment-law-compliance-review

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Sean Bean backs Woodland Trust card recycling

Edie.net article:
Hollywood star Sean Bean will be the last face of the Woodland Trust's Christmas card recycling scheme.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19144&channel=0&title=Sean+Bean+backs+Woodland+Trust+card+recycling+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Bury firm sentenced after woman's fingers severed

HSE Article:
A worker in a factory, manufacturing lids for food containers, had four fingers severed in a lid-punching machine that had been modified by her employers.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-65chadwicks.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Friday 10 December 2010

Hot Stuff

Cbeebies Video:
Remember the video of Safety in the Supermarket? Well here's another involving sources of heat.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/nuzzleandscratch/watch/hoofandsafetyclips/

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Men killed at Knowsley Sonae factory on Merseyside named

BBC Article:
Police have confirmed the names of the two men who died at the Sonae chipboard factory at Kirkby on Merseyside.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-merseyside-11964014

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Essential tips for driving in ice and snow

Before you begin your journey:

• Check local weather and traffic reports

• Plan your route on major roads were possible as these are more likely to have been gritted



Checks:

>Tyres

- It is important that your tyre pressure is correct as tyre pressure decreases in colder weather and this affects traction. Check your tyre pressure when tyres are cold so that they correspond to your manufacturer’s specifications (found in manual or door pillar)

- Ideally tread depth should be in the region of 3mm as deeper tread depth is more effective in clearing water on the roads



>Windows

- Don't use water to defrost your windows. Hot water can crack your screen and it will just re–freeze as it cools, either on the screen or on the ground where you're standing, which could prove dangerous. Use a scraper and de-icer instead.

- Make sure wipers are in good condition and use screen wash with the proper additive, washing up liquid will foam up and can reduce visibility.



>Lights

- Check that all your lights are working and make sure your headlights are properly aimed

- Clear any dirt or snow from headlights



>Fuel

- Make sure you have plenty of fuel as you may need to reroute



Driving safely on icy roads:

- Ensure your headlights are on

- Pull off in second gear

- Don’t tailgate - stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice/snow

- Avoid overtaking

- When driving on the flat, stay in the highest gear possible

- When driving downhill, choose 3rd or 4th gear

- Be particularly careful on tree-lined roads. Trees prevent the sun’s rays from reaching the road which could be still icy when everywhere else has thawed. Also, black ice is common in shaded areas

- Reduce speed on turns to prevent skidding

- If you are skidding/spinning, gently turn the wheel in the same direction as the skid

- If you see an icy patch ahead, brake before it

- Is your car front or rear wheel drive?

- Front-wheel drives handle better in ice and snow

- Rear-wheel drives can result in excessive sliding on corners



ABS/no ABS?:

- ABS will automatically prevent wheels from locking

- If you do not have ABS, gently but rapidly pump the brakes when the road is slippery

- Do not ‘jam’ on your brakes if you begin to slide as it may cause your wheels to lock and your car to spin



Winter car survival kit:

• Hi-vis vest

• Map

• Phone

• Phone charger

• Tow rope

• Warning triangle

• Jump leads

• Torch

• Fuel can

• Ice scraper

• De-icer

• Warm clothes and a hat - you can lose up to 60% of your body heat through your head

• Bag of salt to grit road if particularly bad

• Some food

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Committee delivers blow to worker-assaults bill

SHP Article:
A Scottish Parliament committee report has concluded that new legislation is not the answer to protecting workers from assault and deterring violence.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/committee-delivers-blow-to-worker-assaults-bill

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

HSE rubbishes Daily Mirror claims of asbestos report cover up

HSE Article:
HSE rubbishes Daily Mirror claims of asbestos report cover up.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/record/mirror031210.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Oil giant faces legal action in US

Edie.net article:
U.S. oil giant Occidental Petroleum (Oxy) face a lawsuit in the US courts after they lost an appeal in the federal courts on Monday (December 6).

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19133&channel=0&title=Oil+giant+faces+legal+action+in+US

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Fine after workers put at risk of radiation exposure

Edie.net article:
Workers were exposed to potential radiation as they worked on an oil rig off the coast of Scotland.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19138&channel=0&title=Fine+after+workers+put+at+risk+of+radiation+exposure+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker's arm injured by two tonne metal plate

HSE Article:
An Edinburgh steel fabricating firm has been fined after an employee's arm and hand were severely injured while lifting steel plates.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sco-20710.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

London borough uses abseiling to insulate high rises

Edie.net article:
A London borough - aiming to cut its emissions by 40% - is to use abseiling to insulate its high rise buildings.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19137&channel=0&title=London+borough+uses+abseiling+to+insulate+high+rises

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 8 December 2010

Scottish and Southern come top in new customer league table

Edie.net Article:
A new complaints league has been published on energy companies to help consumers to decide which supplier to use.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19119&channel=0&title=Scottish+and+Southern+come+top+in+new+customer+league+table+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Farm worker suffered severe electrical burns

SHP Article:
A potato farm has been fined £10,000 for failing to educate contractors about the dangers of working underneath overhead power lines.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/farm-worker-suffered-severe-electrical-burns

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Plumber sentenced for carrying out illegal gas work

HSE Article:
A Middlesex plumber who put people at risk by illegally working on domestic gas appliances has been sentenced.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-e-46.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

GLA to adopt sustainable food plans for 2012

Edie.net Article:
The Greater London Authority has announced a drive to make food provision at the organisation sustainable.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19121&channel=0&title=GLA+to+adopt+sustainable+food+plans+for+2012+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

A quarter of European employees suffer ill health caused by work

SHP Article:
Older people in manual roles, women undertaking work that is likely to impact on their health in the long term, and employees without fixed-term contracts are among the most vulnerable workers in Europe, new research has found.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/a-quarter-of-european-employees-suffer-ill-health-caused-by-work

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

HSE responds to Herald Express letter - "Health and Safety Executive ruining children's 'growing up'"

HSE Article:
HSE responds to Herald Express letter - "Health and Safety Executive ruining children's 'growing up'"

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/record/hexpress231110.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Monday 6 December 2010

Unsafe work practice went on for a decade

SHP Article:
A factory worker suffered serious injuries to his hand when his fingers came into contact with a rotating blade as he cleared debris from a large circular saw.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/unsafe-work-practice-went-on-for-a-decade

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Construction firm could not afford edge protection

SHP Article:
A construction company has told a court it could not afford to put adequate safety measures in place during the development of two apartment blocks in Liverpool.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/construction-firm-could-not-afford-edge-protection

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Eye-injured worker wasn’t given PPE

SHP Article:
A teenage worker has been left blinded in one eye while helping to demolish a mill in Greater Manchester.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/eye-injured-worker-wasn-t-given-ppe

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Report leaks on twitter says water company

Edie.net Article:
A water company has asked customers to use a popular social network to report leaks to them.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19107&channel=0&title=Report+leaks+on+twitter+says+water+company+
For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Shell UK to be prosecuted over gas explosion

Edie.net Article:
Oil and gas giant Shell UK will face charges early next year after an explosion tore through a gas facility it owns.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19112&channel=0&title=Shell+UK+to+be+prosecuted+over+gas+explosion+
For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Glasgow hotel begins anaerobic digestion project

Edie.net Article:
The Radisson Blu in Glasgow has begun a new food recycling project using anaerobic digestion.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19109&channel=0&title=Glasgow+hotel+begins+anaerobic+digestion+project+
For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Two workers exposed to asbestos at Aston University

HSE Article:
A Birmingham-based university has been fined, along with a security systems firm, after two workers were exposed to dangerous asbestos fibres while fitting CCTV cameras.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-wm-29210.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker paralysed after being crushed by reel of paper

HSE Article:
An employee of a major paper producer in North Wales has been left paralysed from the chest down after being crushed by a two tonne reel of paper.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-w-le806w10.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Maintenance firm fined after Heathrow incident

HSE Article:
A worker suffered injuries to his face and knees when he fell two metres in a maintenance hangar at Heathrow Airport.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-ldn-0212.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Thursday 2 December 2010

Consultants accreditation scheme will include health specialists

SHP Article:
More details on how the new accreditation scheme for practitioners is going to operate were revealed today during an online SHP debate.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/consultants-accreditation-scheme-will-include-health-specialists

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

One in four wants to escape pollution in Hong Kong

Edie.net article:
A quarter of people in Hong Kong would like to emigrate due to high levels of pollution.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19075&channel=0&title=One+in+four+wants+to+escape+pollution+in+Hong+Kong+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 1 December 2010

Irish power prices drop as economy slows

Edie.net article:
New data released today (November 29) shows Ireland's power prices are among the cheapest in Europe.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19061&channel=0&title=Irish+power+prices+drop+as+economy+slows+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Single market, single health and safety qualification

SHP Article:
Plans for a universal qualification and training framework for health and safety professionals across Europe have been unveiled, with the aim of improving international recognition of practitioners’ skills.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/single-market-single-health-and-safety-qualification

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

New European rules on notifying chemical substances

HSE Article:
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is supporting the European Chemical Agency's (ECHA) campaign to remind companies that new rules on classification, labelling, packaging and notification of chemical substances come into force on 1 December 2010.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/hse-echa.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

HSE chair Judith Hackitt sets straight a claim that health and safety legislation is to blame for the demise in school science experiments

HSE Article:
Judith Hackitt sets the record straight when it comes to Classroom Science Experiments.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/record/bmail231110.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk
safety, health, environmental, training

Major pub operator fined after asbestos exposure

HSE Article:
A major UK pub operator has been fined after three electricians and two plumbers were exposed to asbestos during refurbishment works at a Darlington pub.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-ne-275.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Acute health-care sector bears brunt of rise in assaults

SHP Article:
The total number of assaults against health-care staff has risen significantly in the past year, with attacks against acute-sector workers rocketing by almost 20 per cent.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-ne-275.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Waste energy from power stations to heat homes

Edie.net article:
Waste heat from power stations and large industry could be used to heat family homes according to a team of scientists investigating the possibilities behind the scheme.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19058&channel=0&title=Waste+energy+from+power+stations+to+heat+homes

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Fast-food giant fined following serious safety lapse

SHP Article:
A worker at a McDonalds restaurant suffered serious burns to his eyes when sulphuric acid sprayed into his face as he attempted to unblock a drain.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/fast-food-giant-fined-following-serious-safety-lapse

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Business gains from emissions reporting says DEFRA

Edie.net article:
A new government report published today (November 30) finds that business gains from reporting greenhouse gas emissions.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19068&channel=0&title=Business+gains+from+emissions+reporting+says+DEFRA+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Printing firm is fined after worker is injured

HSE Article:
An Oxfordshire printing firm has been fined after a worker was injured when part of his hand was pulled into a printing machine.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-se-2611.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Investigation slams hospital’s staffing levels following patient fatality

SHP Article:
An elderly patient suffered fatal injuries after falling from his hospital bed despite his family warning staff that he required bed rails.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/investigation-slams-hospital-s-staffing-levels-following-patient-fatality

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Calls for compromise at COP 16

Edie.net article:
The 16th Climate Change Conference in Cancun opened yesterday with a speech from Mexican President Felipe Calderon.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19066&channel=0&title=Calls+for+compromise+at+COP+16+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Monday 29 November 2010

Clearing snow and ice from pavements yourself

HSE Article:
What are your rights and responsibilities on clearing snow and ice from public areas? New guidance from DirectGov offers tips and advice.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_191868

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Sunday 28 November 2010

Builder sentenced after roofers spotted working dangerously on Salford restaurant

HSE Article:
A builder has been sentenced after two of his employees put themselves, staff and customers at risk while working on the roof of a Frankie and Benny’s restaurant in Salford Quays.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-71mcelv.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Race on for UK's first solar feed-in tariff scheme

Edie Article:
Planning permission has been granted to transform a former World War II airfield into what could be the UK's first solar Feed-In Tariff site.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19048&channel=0&title=Race+on+for+UK%27s+first+solar+feed%2Din+tariff+scheme+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Friday 26 November 2010

Brickbats and bouquets for Lord Young review in House of Lords debate

SHP Article:
The only antidote to those who would “assert petty authority” or “take extreme views” in relation to health and safety provision is common sense, Lord Young has told the House of Lords.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/brickbats-and-bouquets-for-lord-young-review-in-house-of-lords-debate

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Ofgem inquiry into energy prices

Edie.net article:
Ofgem is to begin an investigation into energy companies after a 38% increase in prices since September.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19045&channel=0&title=Ofgem+inquiry+into+energy+prices+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Construction firm fined after workers' lives put at risk

HSE Article:
A construction company has been sentenced after the lives of up to 30 workers were put at risk at two new waterfront apartment blocks in Liverpool.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-66retro.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Telehandler toppled because of precarious parking

SHP Article:
A large UK homebuilders and one of its contractors have been prosecuted after a telehandler overturned, resulting in the death of a worker and seriously injuring two others

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/telehandler-toppled-because-of-precarious-parking

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

New climate change gallery to open

Edie.net article:
A new gallery at the Science Museum in London dedicated to climate change will open on December 3.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19044&channel=0&title=New+climate+change+gallery+to+open+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Teenage student at risk of injury

HSE Article:
A Writtle agricultural college has been prosecuted today for potentially endangering a teenage student.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-e-45.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Untrained worker crushed while unloading delivery

SHP Article:
A delivery driver’s legs were crushed during a ‘badly planned’ lifting operation at a waste management facility in London.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/untrained-worker-crushed-while-unloading-delivery

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

World's first energy house unveiled

Edie.net article:
The world's first energy house will be unveiled today at a conference organised by the University of Salford.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19047&channel=0&title=World%27s+first+energy+house+unveiled

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Contractor fined after boy injured on construction site

HSE Article:
An employer has been fined after a 14-year-old boy was injured when he overturned a dumper truck on a construction site.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sw-ww833.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 24 November 2010

European countries need to triple efforts to decarbonise

Edie.net article:
The launch of what claims to be the first up-to-date tracker of European emissions says countries need to triple their efforts if they want to decarbonise by 2050.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19024&channel=0&title=European+countries+need+to+triple+efforts+to+decarbonise

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Factory worker crushed to death by falling crane load

SHP Article:
An HSE inspector has slammed a metal galvanising company for failing to learn the lessons from a near-miss accident after a worker was crushed to death when a crane’s jig and load fell on him.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/factory-worker-crushed-to-death-by-falling-crane-load

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Workers injured in stone staircase collapse

HSE Article:
Two workers were injured after plunging into a hotel basement when the stone staircase they were demolishing collapsed under their feet.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sco-20410.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Industrial solvent polluted land to get $38million clean up

Edie.net article:
A multi-million-dollar settlement has been agreed to clean up land polluted by solvent manufacture.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19025&channel=0&title=Industrial+solvent+polluted+land+to+get+%2438million+clean+up

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Military veterans barred from pursuing radiation-exposure claims

SHP Article:
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has successfully appealed against a court ruling to allow ex-servicemen to claim damages for injuries allegedly suffered in nuclear tests during the 1950s.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/military-veterans-barred-from-pursuing-radiation-exposure-claims

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Fine after farm worker suffers severe electrical burns

HSE Article:
A farm worker sustained severe injuries after getting an electric shock while working for one of the largest potato growers in the UK.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-e-44.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Monday 22 November 2010

Steel manufacturer handed massive fine for crane fatality

SHP Article:
A Cardiff recycling company has been fined £200,000 after one of its employees was killed by a swinging crane hook.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/steel-manufacturer-handed-massive-fine-for-crane-fatality

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Window company exposed workers to asbestos

HSE Article:
The owner of a Welshpool-based window and conservatory installation company has been fined for failing to protect its workers from exposure to asbestos.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-w-01sww10.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Irish Green Party leader calls for general election

Edie.net article:
The leader of the Irish Green Party has plunged Ireland's coalition government into chaos in the aftermath of the country's financial bailout.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19019&channel=0&title=Irish+Green+Party+leader+calls+for+general+election+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Plans to shake up civil-litigation costs regime

SHP Article:
Proposals to tackle civil-litigation costs payable by defendants in no-win no-fee cases have been outlined in a new consultation document issued by the Ministry of Justice.


For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/plans-to-shake-up-civil-litigation-costs-regime

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Gas company fined after car roll incident

HSE Article:
A gas transportation company has been fined £20,000 after a car flipped on its side when it hit a metal plate during road works.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-se-1911b.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Toxic lead clear up at US schools

Edie.net article:
Recent testing at 11 schools and 16 child care centres in Kansas has revealed elevated levels of toxic lead in the soil.


For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19016&channel=0&title=Toxic+lead+clear+up+at+US+schools+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Thursday 18 November 2010

Huge photovoltaic panels installed on carriage museum

Edie.net Article:
What could be one of the largest installations of photovoltaic solar panels on an historic building has been unveiled in Devon.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18992&channel=0&title=Huge+photovoltaic+panels+installed+on+carriage+museum+

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Irish government demands action on high rate of farming fatalities

SHP Article:
The Irish minister with responsibility for safety, along with the safety regulator and the country’s food and agriculture authority, have appeared before a government committee to explain the high rates of death and injury in the Irish farming sector.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/irish-government-demands-action-on-high-rate-of-farming-fatalities

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Dumfries businesses are first for safety - Local firms attend first of Scotland-wide free safety briefings

HSE Article:
Representatives from more than forty Dumfries businesses today (17 November) took part in the first of a series of free health and safety events planned to take place across Scotland.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sco-20310.htm

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Tesco aims for zero

Edie.net Article:
Green buildings were high on the agenda at the CBI Summit on Climate Change, with Tesco showcasing its zero carbon store in Ramsey, Cambridgeshire.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=19001&channel=0&title=Tesco+aims+for+zero+

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Job strain link to heart disease in women

SHP Article:
Women who report having high job strain have a 40-per-cent higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, compared with those with low job strain.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/job-strain-link-to-heart-disease-in-women

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Worker killed by swinging crane hook

HSE Article:
A Cardiff-based recycling company has ordered to pay over £230,000 after an employee died following an incident at its premises.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-w-1110ap.htm

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Huhne says new business is the answer

Edie.net Article:
Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Chris Huhne, spoke to industry giants yesterday (November 17) at the CBI Climate Change Summit in London.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18996&channel=0&title=Huhne+says+new+business+is+the+answer+

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Construction firm guilty of blacklisting

SHP Article:
A major construction contractor has been found guilty of unlawfully denying work to a trade-unionist.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/construction-firm-guilty-of-blacklisting

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Employers warned about explosion risks from cutting of drums and containers

HSE Article:
Employees contemplating 'hot work' on used containers, and managers overseeing it, are being urged to check that the correct working procedures are followed after two people were killed in separate incidents in North East Scotland whilst cutting up drums.

For more information on the following story please follow the link bellow:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/hse-hotwork.htm

For advice on your health and safety needs please follow the link bellow:
she.ltd.uk

Wednesday 17 November 2010

Apology for wrongful removal of nuclear workers body parts

Edie.net article:
Workers at a nuclear power stations had body parts and tissue removed and tested - often without their families knowledge.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18991&channel=0&title=Apology+for+wrongful+removal+of+nuclear+workers+body+parts+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Solihull construction firm fined for worker's burns

HSE Article:
A Solihull construction firm has been fined after one of its workers suffered burns when his drill hit a power cable.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-wm-25210.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Small firms lack faith in war on red tape

SHP Article:
Many small-business owners have serious misgivings about the Government’s ability to liberate them from the burden of red tape, a new study suggests.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/small-firms-lack-faith-in-war-on-red-tape

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Juniper calls for greater private sector green engagement

Edie.net article:
A former Friends of the Earth director and lifelong environmental campaigner has delivered a rallying call to London's business community to refocus on the environment.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18990&channel=0&title=Juniper+calls+for+greater+private+sector+green+engagement+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Safety drive across West Yorkshire businesses bring dangers to light

HSE Article:
More than 70 firms across West Yorkshire have been told to make safety improvements to protect their workers after an intensive two-week inspection initiative.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-yh-25910.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Poundstretcher chain pays £55,000 for fire safety breaches

SHP Article:
National discount chain Poundstretcher Limited has been fined £51,500 and ordered to pay £3,450 costs at Leeds crown court for seven offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/poundstretcher-chain-pays-55-000-for-fire-safety-breaches

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Monday 15 November 2010

she ltd undergoes new process changes

she ltd are currently undergoing new process to maintain and build on a fantastic business management system; provided by Impact Flexibility.

This gives us the chance to keep providing a top quality customer service.

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Olympic stadium contamination clean up costs revealed

Edie.net article:
Cleaning up the Olympic stadium site will cost almost £13 million according to the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA).

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18975&channel=0&title=Olympic+stadium+contamination+clean+up+costs+revealed+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Controversial incinerator permit granted

Edie.net article:
The Environment agency has agreed to a grant a permit for developers to build a waste incinerator in Derby on Sinfin Lane despite local residents' concerns.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18976&channel=0&title=Controversial+incinerator+permit+granted+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Irish schools deemed unsafe – but which ones?

SHP Article:
An alleged lack of government investment in Irish schools has led to seven being served with enforcement notices for health and safety failings – but the regulator is not obliged to identify the schools involved owing to a “bizarre” exclusion in the country’s freedom of information laws.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/news-content/full/irish-schools-deemed-unsafe-but-which-ones

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Worker crushed after unsecured delivery fell off lorry

SHP Article:
A Warwick bathroom firm has admitted it failed to provide training and a safe system of work for unloading lorries after a worker suffered crush injuries.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/worker-crushed-after-unsecured-delivery-fell-off-lorry

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Some improvement but still not good enough – high rates of injury remain in waste and recycling

HSE Article:
The combined fatal and major injury rate in waste and recycling is more than four times the average across all industries.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/hse-statistics2010waste.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Architecture watchdog to be wound down

Edie.net article:
The Government's sustainable building watchdog is to be wound down in its current form following the decision to end its funding.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18978&channel=0&title=Architecture+watchdog+to+be+wound+down+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Chemical firm in court after fireball horror

HSE Article:
A subsidiary of a global chemical company has been fined £20,000 after a welder suffered serious burns in a dust explosion at one of its plants in Cumbria.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-nw-67indorama.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Firm fined for falling foam

SHP Article:
A lorry driver suffered a broken back when a pile of insulation boards fell on him during a delivery at a foam-manufacturing facility in Derbyshire.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.shponline.co.uk/incourt-content/full/firm-fined-for-falling-foam

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Broxburn farm safety event aims to cut deaths

HSE Article:
Farmers from across the Lothians and central Scotland are being encouraged to attend a free half day event next week for practical advice in dealing with the dangers of working in agriculture.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2010/coi-sco-19710.htm

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk

Friday 12 November 2010

Big business fear over future water use revealed

Edie.net article:
A survey of the world's largest businesses has revealed one in five has fears over future water use.

For the whole story, please follow the link below:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=18970&channel=0&title=Big+business+fear+over+future+water+use+revealed+

For advice on issues of Safety, Health, and Environment please visit us at:
she.ltd.uk