A C NELSON & ASSOCIATES
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT ADVISORS
11 BRANSON PARK, GRENOFEN, TAVISTOCK, DEVON PL19 9EN
Mobile :- 07967 650443    Telephone :- 01822 616775
email :- morse.nelson@virgin.net  and  www.safetyhealthenvironmental-she.co.uk

H.S.E – Plan of work and workplace inspections priorities ‘06/07 

It has become a convention each year for the Health and Safety Executive, in accord with the relevant local government enforcement bodies such as Environmental Health, announce their so-called ‘plan of work’ for the coming twelve months. This plan is nationally established and reflects central government policy, but may include certain local concerns. The plan sets out those aspects of workplace safety management that the authorities intend to pay particular attention to during the course of their routine site visits and inspections. While the priority topics do not serve to prevent H.S.E Inspectors and Environmental Health Officers from focussing on other imminent sources of hazard or matters of non-compliance, they will wish to be satisfied that the priorities are being properly addressed. 

The topics contained in the list may not be relevant or immediately apparent in all workplaces, however employers should be prepared to answer questions on the following subjects. The Inspector will be looking for evidence of hazard awareness, suitable and sufficient risk assessments, appropriate communication of such hazards to employees, and that adequate arrangements and protective measures are in place where they are required: 

• Working at Height – Any work activity taking place above ‘floor’ level to reflect recently issued regulatory requirements.
• Asbestos Management – Particular emphasis on the maintenance & service industries – including electrical contractors, plumbers & shop fitters.
• Manual Handling – To focus on back injuries & rehabilitation arrangements.
• Handling and Storage – Arrangements for the safe movement of bulk goods.
• Control of Vibration and Noise – Newly issued regulatory requirements.
• Metal Working – Guarding and maintenance systems.
• Workplace Dermatitis and Asthma – Control of processes giving rise to such hazards; protective arrangements, monitoring and communication.
• Slips and Trips – Appropriate maintenance of all pedestrian access routes.
• Stress – Recognition of situations giving rise to this problem & the managed response to alleviating it.

 In addition to these topics, it is possible that those businesses that employ ‘young persons’ – seasonally or routinely – may find themselves being asked to demonstrate the particular arrangements they have in place to protect and supervise this vulnerable group. Similarly, there will be special attention given to those organisations that employ migrant workers. In such cases, the communication of hazards and training practices may be examined. 

Any employer seeking further information on any of the matters described here, or any other S.H.E concern, is invited to contact A.C Nelson & Associates at their earliest convenience.

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For further information on any subject listed here or on any other aspect of S.H.E. legislation please contact us.