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News Archive

This section contains legal updates relating to Employment Law, Health & Safety and Environmental Legislation and Regulation.


HSE reveals agricultural farming's poor accident record  (03-Nov-2011)

New figures published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have revealed that the number of workplace deaths are far higher within the agricultural sector.

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Plug skills gaps in UK firms, CIPD urges government  (03-Nov-2011)

A new report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has called for the government to offer encouragement to UK firms to plug skills gaps.

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BSIF issues warning over fake safety equipment  (01-Nov-2011)

Firms should be careful to ensure they are not taken in by fake safety equipment, The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has warned.

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'Small employer's relief' to cover sick pay needed, says FSB  (01-Nov-2011)

New figures have revealed that sickness absence is costing small firms an average of £1,500 every year.

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'Small employer's relief' to cover sick pay needed, says FSB  (01-Nov-2011)

New figures have revealed that sickness absence is costing small firms an average of £1,500 every year.

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Agriculture accounts for two-thirds of Scottish workplace deaths  (28-Oct-2011)

Agricultural accidents accounted for nearly two-thirds of the workplace deaths in Scotland last year, according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics.

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Government report urges unfair dismissal scrappage  (27-Oct-2011)

A leaked report commissioned by David Cameron has called for lazy employees to lose their right to make unfair dismissal claims

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Turn heating down to save big, firms advised  (26-Oct-2011)

According to new guidance, businesses could be making significant savings by turning down heating by just one degree.

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Clegg aiming to slash regulations for small businesses  (26-Oct-2011)

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has today given a speech to small business leaders in which he announced measures to lighten the regulations imposed upon such organisations.

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Reducing sickness absence crucial to UK businesses  (24-Oct-2011)

According to MP Esther McVey, the 'unsung heroes' of the UK workplace are line managers, as they help to manage staff absence.

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Private schools win landmark bursaries decision  (24-Oct-2011)

English and Welsh private schools will no longer be forced to give major bursaries to pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds if they want to be eligible for millions of pound of tax relief

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UK Bribery Act surprises legal world with first prosecution  (21-Oct-2011)

Last week, a magistrates clerk became the first person to be convicted under the UK's new Bribery Act.

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New report could limit parental leave rights  (19-Oct-2011)

The Prime Minister has commissioned a new report which is expected to limit maternity and paternity leave flexibility.

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Sliding scale suggested for tribunal fees  (18-Oct-2011)

The newly announced tribunal fees could be levied on a sliding scale, according to employment relations minister Edward Davey.

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London laundry fined for workplace risks  (17-Oct-2011)

A London laundry business will have to pay out more than £7,000 after failing to comply with two separate Improvement Notices issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

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HSE charge plans draw criticism  (14-Oct-2011)

Responses to the consultation being carried out by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) on plans to recover costs from businesses and organisations that break health and safety law have been shown some very unfavourable sentiment.

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RNIB urges companies to accommodate newly-disabled workers  (13-Oct-2011)

Efforts made to keep a newly disabled person in employment can give employers a cost benefit of two-and-a-half times their investment, according to an new report from the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB).

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Community service for unregulated gas fitter  (13-Oct-2011)

A builder in Scotland has received a Community Service Order for carrying out gas installation work that he was not qualified or registered to do

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Asbestos failings cost contractor dearly  (12-Oct-2011)

A London-based building contractor will have to pay out more than £25,000 in fines and costs, after failing to ensure the proper asbestos exposure precautions were in place on one of his sites.

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UK to push for farm subsidy reform  (11-Oct-2011)

The British government is aiming to bring down farming subsidies issued by Europe, in a bid to aid British farmers and reduce the tax liability for them.

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Off-site H&S responsibilities raised following work accident  (07-Oct-2011)

Businesses across the UK are being reminded about their off-site health and safety (H&S) responsibilities, following a workplace accident at a Kent-based firm.

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Dirty desks contributing to winter health warnings  (07-Oct-2011)

New research has revealed that dirty workplace desks could play a contributing factor to winter illnesses.

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Osborne announces tribunal fees for claimants  (06-Oct-2011)

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced that claimants bringing employment tribunal cases will now be charged a fee for the first time.

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National Minimum Wage increase  (05-Oct-2011)

The National Minimum Wage increased as usual from 1st October.

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Court rules - staff off sick are too ill to request holiday  (05-Oct-2011)

Workers who are on sick leave for long periods cannot be assumed to be fit enough to make requests for annual leave, the Employment Appeals Tribunal has ruled.

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Cool it!  (05-Oct-2011)

The Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU) and the Trade Union Co-coordinating Group (TUCG), have recently launched the "Cool It!" campaign. This aims to pressurise the Government into legislating for a maximum working temperature.

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Unions pledge to fight HSE cuts  (05-Oct-2011)

Delegates at the TUC Congress have unanimously supported a motion condemning the cuts to the HSE's budget and warning to fight any "watering-down of health and safety" imposed through the Government's reform agenda.

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Two Firms Prosecuted for Dangerous Building Site  (05-Oct-2011)

Two construction companies have been fined for "appalling" standards at a building site in London.

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How much did the accident cost your Company?  (05-Oct-2011)

As part of its Life Savings campaign, the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, (IOSH) has announced that it is planning to develop a bank of costs for common accidents and incidences of work-related ill-health.

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Waste Industry part of Standardisation Review  (05-Oct-2011)

As part of the Government's plan to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses, The British Standards Institution (BSI) has been tasked with looking at whether standards could replace enforcement as part of a "lighter touch" approach to waste regulation.

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Reminder: Duty of Care changes  (05-Oct-2011)

Because of changes brought in by The Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011, the information required on a waste transfer note has changed.

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Environmental Agency - Relaxation of rules around SIC codes  (05-Oct-2011)

The Environment Agency (EA) has released a position statement clarifying the use of the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code on hazardous waste consignment notes.

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Environment Agency issues first civil sanction  (05-Oct-2011)

Amid doubt that the use of civil sanctions would be scrapped by the Coalition, developments over the summer suggest that they are back on, at least for environmental offences.

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Firms to benefit from new crisis management standard  (04-Oct-2011)

A new crisis management standard has been launched to help firms cope with emergencies such as natural disasters or the death of an employee.

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Osborne announces war on employee rights  (04-Oct-2011)

The chancellor, George Osborne, has announced the qualifying period for unfair dismissal will increase from one to two years from April next year.

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Social Networking - Employee conduct online  (30-Sep-2011)

Since computers first entered the workplace, employers have been faced with managing how the hardware is used by employees and in particular how to restrict its use to “business-related” activities.

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New rights for agency workers from October  (30-Sep-2011)

From 1st October, agency workers will get new workplace rights. If your business uses agency workers on any basis you need to know how the new regulations could impact on your business so you can plan accordingly

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New waste transfer rules rolled out  (30-Sep-2011)

From today, new rules relating to the transfer of waste come into practice as part of the recently introduced Waste Regulations.

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Firm fined for failing to secure permit for waste facility  (28-Sep-2011)

Scunthorpe-based waste management firm Dock Management Services has been prosecuted following the operation of a waste facility without a permit.

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Calls for Government to reduce ‘burden of regulation’  (27-Sep-2011)

The Government has been urged to boost efforts to ease the "burden of regulation" by manufacturing business group EEF.

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More female managers called for by UK staff  (26-Sep-2011)

New research has revealed that employees across the UK would like their firms to employ a larger number of female managers.

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Tribunal figures monitoring system called for  (23-Sep-2011)

Calls are being made for a central system for monitoring employment tribunal claims to be established, in a bid to catch out people who repeatedly attempt to make erroneous claims.

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EA fines waste director following permit breach  (21-Sep-2011)

The director of an Essex-based waste firm has been fined following two breaches of Environmental Permitting Regulations.

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Workplace temperature campaign launched  (20-Sep-2011)

A new campaign aimed at urging the Government to rolling out legislation regarding a maximum working temperature has been launched.

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Internship guidance rolled out by Government  (20-Sep-2011)

The Government's new internship guidance aims to offer firms clarity about work experience and placements.

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Gender equality initiative launched  (16-Sep-2011)

Human resources directors from some of the UK's biggest companies and public bodies are working with the government as part of an effort to encourage employers to sign up to a framework for voluntary equality reporting.

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Campaign to name firms offering unpaid internships  (16-Sep-2011)

Big companies that employ interns on an unpaid basis are to be named and shamed as part of a new campaign.

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Farmers reminded to comply with slurry regulations  (15-Sep-2011)

Farmers in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) have been urged not to spread slurry on their fields this winter.

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New online system to make RIDDOR reporting easier  (14-Sep-2011)

The reporting of work-related accidents under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR) has been moved to a new online system as of today.

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UK Carbon Reporting Framework launched  (14-Sep-2011)

In a bid to encourage firms to achieve their green goals, the UK Carbon Reporting Framework has been introduced.

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Cameron seeking to water down AWD  (14-Sep-2011)

Information has emerged that indicates that David Cameron is looking to dilute the new Agency Workers Directive (AWD) due to come into effect next month.

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Illegal to force airline pilots to retire at 60, European court rules  (14-Sep-2011)

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has just ruled that forcing airline pilots to retire at 60 is unlawful age discrimination.

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Amendments 'could still be made' to AWR  (09-Sep-2011)

The Agency Workers Regulations (AWR) could still be changed by the government, according to a new Telegraph report.

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New rights for agency workers from October  (08-Sep-2011)

From 1st October, agency workers will get new workplace rights. If your business makes use of agency workers, whether on an occasional basis or more regularly, you need to know about the new regulations

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CIPD extols virtues of flexible working in times of unrest  (07-Sep-2011)

Flexible working could help businesses across the country to cope with the unrest which occurred as a result of the riots.

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HSE highlights importance of asbestos training  (07-Sep-2011)

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is encouraging firms to help tradesmen protect themselves from asbestos.

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Views called for on HSE cost recovery proposals  (06-Sep-2011)

The British Safety Council is calling for opinions on the Health and Safety Executive's (HSE) proposals to extend cost recovery.

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TUC calls for lower dust limit levels  (05-Sep-2011)

National trade union centre the TUC has called for action to be taken to lower the limits governing workplace dust levels.

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UK workforce remain unaware of upcoming pension reforms  (02-Sep-2011)

More than half of workers in the UK are unaware of the upcoming pension reforms, new research has found.

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Age discrimination cases see highest average payout  (02-Sep-2011)

Figures from the Tribunal Service have revealed that the average payout amount for discrimination claims made on the grounds of age has nearly trebled since 2009/10.

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Supreme Court rules that subcontractors can be employees  (02-Sep-2011)

The highest court in the land – the Supreme Court – has ruled that subcontractors can be employees of the business that hires them.

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Agency workers' rights clarified  (02-Sep-2011)

The Agency Workers (Amendment) Regulations 2011 were published by the government last month.

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Appeal court defends tribunals  (02-Sep-2011)

A Judge in the Court of Appeal has delivered a robust defence of the employment tribunal system, but says that some of the shortcomings are due to the "attitudes and approaches of some litigants to the process of reasonable resolution of conflict".

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Support for preventing illegal working  (02-Sep-2011)

With the risk of penalties of up to £10,000 for employing workers who do not have the right to work in the UK, employers may feel they are in the front line of preventing illegal immigration.

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RIDDOR reporting period extended  (02-Sep-2011)

The reporting period for injuries sustained at work is to be extended from three to seven days off sick. This follows analysis of responses to the consultation on RIDDOR carried out earlier this year in which the responses were almost 2:1 in favour.

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Ladder Exchange Initiative 2011  (02-Sep-2011)

The HSE will again be running a scheme in partnership with local authorities and industry bodies where businesses can trade in their damaged, bent or broken ladders for new ones.

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HSE publishes plans for construction site visits  (02-Sep-2011)

The HSE will be prioritising visits to small sites and projects as part of their normal activities of inspection, investigation and dealing with complaints.

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Technical Competence deadline approaches  (02-Sep-2011)

Everybody in the waste management industry should note that the first Technical Competence deadline for England and Wales is fast approaching.

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ISO 14001 15th birthday  (02-Sep-2011)

Fifteen years after its initial introduction, ISO 14001 continues to grow, The Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment state that over 230,000 organisations worldwide have now achieved the standard.

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Prosecutions following work fatalities could be speeded up  (01-Sep-2011)

Prosecutions following the death of a worker could be made swifter if proposed changes to the Work Related Deaths Protocol go ahead.

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Scottish firms encouraged to reduce landfill  (31-Aug-2011)

Businesses must try and do more to reduce the amount of items going to landfill, according to a new Scottish study.

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Scottish firm fined following illegal water works  (25-Aug-2011)

A river engineering firm based in Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire has been fined after carrying out water works without the necessary authorisation.

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Scottish firm fined following illegal water works  (25-Aug-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched its Ladder Exchange Initiative for 2011.

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Second trial date for corporate manslaughter case set  (25-Aug-2011)

A second trial date has now been arranged for the corporate manslaughter trial of Manchester-based Lion Steel Ltd.

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Certain drivers causing issues for fleet managers  (23-Aug-2011)

Employees who escape driving bans could be causing problems for fleet managers, new research has revealed.

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EA urges firms to improve environmental performance  (22-Aug-2011)

The Environment Agency (EA) is calling upon large firms to follow its example, after successfully cutting its own carbon emissions since 2006.

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HSE to support increasing RIDDOR reporting window  (19-Aug-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will recommend increasing the absence period that triggers an accident report under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) to the Secretary of State.

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HSE shines spotlight on safety at smaller construction firms  (19-Aug-2011)

The Heath & Safety Executive (HSE) is to focus its spotlight on the health and safety record of smaller construction firms and contractors.

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EA calls upon farmers to check and maintain slurry systems  (17-Aug-2011)

Farmers across the country are being urged to check their slurry systems by the Environment Agency (EA).

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Amendments made to Agency Workers Regulations  (16-Aug-2011)

The Agency Workers (Amendment) Regulations 2011 have been published by the government this week. The new regulations - which have been in the pipeline for some time - will amend the Agency Workers Regulations 2010.

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Guidelines set in key sick leave-holiday pay ruling  (12-Aug-2011)

A test case on employee holiday pay has ruled that a worker will continue to accrue holiday pay even when they are off sick for a prolonged period of time.

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Gender salary divide revealed by new research  (11-Aug-2011)

According to new research, male workers are still being paid more than their female colleagues.

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Riots: Advice for employers  (10-Aug-2011)

Mentor is on hand to provide help to businesses unlucky enough to be affected by the recent disruption caused by rioting in several of our major cities.

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Flexible working benefits business and staff, says CIPD  (09-Aug-2011)

According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), flexible working is positive for both employees and employers.

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EA secures largest ever Proceeds of Crime Act ruling  (08-Aug-2011)

In the largest Proceeds of Crime Act ruling to date, the Environment Agency (EA) has prosecuted the boss of an illegal waste firm.

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Skin cancer risks highlighted to construction industry  (05-Aug-2011)

Construction workers are being called upon to take action against sun burn, following a report which revealed that certain workers in the sector were far more likely to develop skin cancer than others.

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Leaving devices on standby is costing firms dear  (05-Aug-2011)

Leaving computers on standby rather than switching them off properly is costing UK companies dear.

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RoSPA cautions against merging H&S regulations  (03-Aug-2011)

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has cautioned against the suggested merging of health and safety regulations.

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Vetting schemes latest  (03-Aug-2011)

If you employ staff in the care or education sectors, or if you are a contractor working on school or care premises, you probably already know about the need for Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks.

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Anti-Bribery law now in force  (03-Aug-2011)

The Bribery Act makes commercial organisations criminally liable for bribery committed on their behalf, but provides a statutory defence if a business has "adequate procedures" in place to prevent persons associated with it from bribing.

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The HSE will be charging law breakers very soon  (03-Aug-2011)

The Government believes that it is reasonable that businesses that are found to be in serious breach of health and safety law should bear the related costs incurred by the regulator in helping them put things right - instead of the taxpayer.

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Changes to F-Gas competence requirements  (03-Aug-2011)

The F-Gas interm Certification expired on 3rd July 2011. Businesses which missed the deadline should apply now for a Stationary Equipment Qualification Company Certificate (Full Certificate).

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CRC reporting reminder  (03-Aug-2011)

Businesses obligated under the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme are required to record and report their carbon emissions.

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Employers urged to change attitude towards disabled people  (02-Aug-2011)

More than seven million disabled adults in the UK are being held back from getting jobs, according to a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Disability Steering Group.

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The most stressful week of the corporate calendar  (02-Aug-2011)

With vast numbers of UK workers heading off on their summer holidays this weekend, the colleagues left behind are facing their most stressful week of work.

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Waste management firm fined for permit breaches  (29-Jul-2011)

A Northallerton-based waste management company has been fined following breaches of its permit conditions.

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Olympic Games expected to boost sick days  (28-Jul-2011)

Yesterday, 27 July, marked the one-year countdown to the London 2012 Olympics.

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Simpler approach to employment law called for  (28-Jul-2011)

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has called on the government to introduce a new approach to employment law.

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Steel firm to be charged with corporate manslaughter  (27-Jul-2011)

Manchester-based Lion Steel Ltd is to be charged with corporate manslaughter, The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has announced.

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New civil sanctions used by the Environment Agency  (25-Jul-2011)

The Environment Agency (EA) has used new civil sanctions as an alternative to criminal prosecution, becoming the first enforcement body to do so.

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Code of Practice launched for internships  (25-Jul-2011)

A new Best Practice Code has been launched by (CIPD) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

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Law Society of Scotland pushes social media policies  (25-Jul-2011)

Businesses must implement a social media policy that fits their needs, according to The Law Society of Scotland

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'Horrifying' fire safety in London's care homes  (21-Jul-2011)

A BBC investigation has revealed that many of London's care homes are not achieving even basic fire safety standards.

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UK employees lying to take time off work, says PwC  (20-Jul-2011)

According to new research by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), one in three UK employees openly admit to lying in order to take time off work.

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Work colleagues affected by long-term absence  (20-Jul-2011)

Many employees are affected by their colleagues taking long-term leaves of absence from work, according to new research from Aviva UK Health.

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SEPA and Crimestoppers tackle environmental crime  (19-Jul-2011)

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has teamed up with charity Crimestoppers in a bid to weed out environmental crime.

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Two jailed for fire safety breaches  (14-Jul-2011)

A hotel manager and an external assessor of fire risk have both been jailed following fire safety offences.

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EHRC calls for change to laws on religion and belief at work  (14-Jul-2011)

According to the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), the law regarding belief or religion discrimination claims in the workplace is 'too narrow.'

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HSE fines firm for failling to follow glove safety policy  (11-Jul-2011)

A maintenance worker was seriously injured in an accident at a chemical firm after the company failed to follow an HSE glove safety policy.

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Composting company breaches regulations  (08-Jul-2011)

A botanical composting company based in Somerset has been prosecuted for failing to run its waste composting site in the correct manner.

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Training right hit the buffers - for now  (08-Jul-2011)

The right for employees to request “time off to train” from their employers will not be extended to SMEs until 2015 at the earliest, the Government has confirmed.

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Compulsory carbon reporting a must, says CBI  (07-Jul-2011)

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has urged the government to roll out compulsory carbon reporting for all UK businesses.

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Steel firm facing corporate manslaughter charge  (06-Jul-2011)

Greater Manchester Police has been advised to charge a steel company with corporate manslaughter.

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Work experience guide launched  (05-Jul-2011)

The quality of work experience must be improved, in order to increase young people's employability, according to newly-released recommendations on the matter.

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Gove to cut school trip red tape  (04-Jul-2011)

New guidelines are to be published by the government which aim to allow more children to enjoy school trips.

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Number of workplace fatalities rise, says HSE  (04-Jul-2011)

There was a rise in the number of employees killed in workplace accidents last year, according to new official figures.

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EU Member States reject European Parliament’s plan to increase full Maternity Pay to 20 weeks  (04-Jul-2011)

Ministers from the European Union member states voted in June to reject a plan by the European Parliament to increase the period of fully paid maternity leave to 20 weeks'.

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Interns should be paid minimum wage, tribunals confirm  (04-Jul-2011)

With current news about certain MPs being criticized for offering unpaid "internships", the debate about whether "interns" should be paid at least the National Minimum Wage continues.

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The Work and Mental Health Website launched  (04-Jul-2011)

The Royal College of Psychiatrists has launched a new website offering information and guidance about mental health in the workplace.

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More red tape challenge  (04-Jul-2011)

Employers, employees, the public and enforcement officers are now being urged to "blow the whistle on inconsistent and over-zealous enforcement of rules and regulations" by having their say on the Red Tape Challenge website.

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Shell's "neglect of basic maintenance" costs them £1.2million  (04-Jul-2011)

Shell UK has been fined £1,000,000 plus £240,000 costs after an explosion at a gas terminal in Norfolk in 2008. The company admitted seven safety and pollution offences following the explosion and fire at the Bacton terminal.

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Shopfitter's finger severed in Roating Saw  (04-Jul-2011)

A shopfitting firm has been sentenced after one of its employees' fingers was severed in a rotating saw. The employee was trimming oak planks when a piece of wood caught on the blade of the circular saw, pulling his index finger into the machine.

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Environment Agency urges for full site assessments prior to demolition  (04-Jul-2011)

The Environment Agency is urging demolition contractors to make sure they carry out a full environmental assessment of every site prior to starting work, to ensure they prevent potential pollution spills or contamination.

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Noise Pollution Fine  (04-Jul-2011)

A car wash firm has been fined for the second time in four months due to noise from its machines. Cheltenham magistrates ordered "Super Suds" to pay a total of £465 in fines and £1,257 in costs.

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Corrupt firms targeted by new Bribery Act  (01-Jul-2011)

The new Bribery Act has brought about legislation which is aimed at making it easier to prosecute corrupt companies.

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Social media policy lacking for many firms  (30-Jun-2011)

According to a new survey, the majority of companies have no policy in place to deal with staff usage of social media sites.

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Gas firm fined following fatal work accident  (29-Jun-2011)

A gas company has been fined following a fatal work accident.

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HSE fines restaurant owner over fire safety failings  (29-Jun-2011)

The owner of a Gloucester-based restaurant has been fined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for failing to follow fire safety regulations.

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Young people must be warned about workplace safety  (27-Jun-2011)

Employers are being urged to educate young people about workplace safety.

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Huhn opposed scrapping of environmental regulations  (24-Jun-2011)

Chris Huhne, the Energy Secretary, has spoken of his concerns about the government’s Red Tape Challenge.

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Employers warned not to neglect older workers  (23-Jun-2011)

When it comes to performance management and training, older workers are often neglected, according to new research.

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Electrical goods recycler fined for falling appliances  (22-Jun-2011)

The electronic waste recycling company, Environcom England, is facing a £23,000 bill for an incident at its Lincolnshire plant that saw a worker pinned under falling electronic appliances.

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Pregnant Workers Directive lobbied against by Government  (20-Jun-2011)

Employment Minister Chris Grayling is scheduled to attend a meeting in Brussels today outlining the Pregnant Workers Directive.

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Workplace drug testing comes under scrutiny  (17-Jun-2011)

A Conservative MP has spoken of her concerns relating to drug testing in the workplace.

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HGV firm prosecuted following workplace accident  (17-Jun-2011)

A Blackburn-based heavy goods vehicle company has been prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive following a work accident.

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Public Sector strikes to hit Private Sector, too.  (16-Jun-2011)

More public sector unions have now voted for strike action, following the teachers’ vote for strike action earlier this month.

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Waste Review probes business recycling services  (15-Jun-2011)

The Government has set out its plans for improving business recycling services in its new Waste Review.

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Worker killed in textile factory accident  (14-Jun-2011)

A male worker was killed after being crushed in a workplace accident at a textile factory.

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HMRC cracking down on tax evaders  (13-Jun-2011)

Firms across the UK are being warned that HMRC is more likely than ever to crack down on tax evaders.

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HSE prosecutes firm over asbestos exposure  (10-Jun-2011)

A refurbishment company has been prosecuted following the exposure of two of its workers to materials containing asbestos

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Young British workers feeling stressed at work  (09-Jun-2011)

A large number of young British workers are suffering from the effects of stress.

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Man suffers horrific injury in workplace accident  (09-Jun-2011)

A food manufacturer has been prosecuted by HSE following a workplace accident.

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South West Water prosecuted following river pollution  (07-Jun-2011)

Following the discharge of sewage effluent into Crediton's River Yeo, South West Water has been prosecuted by the Environment Agency (EA).

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AWR awareness on the rise  (07-Jun-2011)

According to the latest JobsOutlook survey, employee awareness about AWR is on the rise.

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Absence levels reduced by EAP programmes  (06-Jun-2011)

A recent survey has revealed that more than half of all workers who made use of the counselling services offered through EAP were better able to cope with the demands of work.

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Property firm prosecuted following workplace injury  (03-Jun-2011)

A property development company has been prosecuted by the HSE following a serious workplace accident.

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CIOT raises concerns over disguised remuneration legislation  (02-Jun-2011)

The approach taken by the government to prevent tax avoidance through 'disguised remuneration' payment is far too complicated, says the CIOT.

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Flexible working rights to extend to all workers  (02-Jun-2011)

In a proposal contained in the government's "Modern Workplaces" consultation paper, all employees will have the right to request flexible working arrangements from their employer as long as they have worked for the employer for at least 26 weeks.

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Agency workers to get new rights from October  (02-Jun-2011)

New regulations will come into force on 1st October aimed at bolstering the rights of agency workers, the government has confirmed.

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Additional Paternity Leave to be replaced by Flexible Parental Leave from 2015  (02-Jun-2011)

Hot on the heels of the introduction of Additional Paternity Leave (APL) at the beginning of April, the government has now launched a consultation about scrapping it.

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We don't talk anymore  (02-Jun-2011)

From 12 September 2011, all reportable work-related injuries and incidents under RIDDOR (the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995) will move to a predominantly online system.

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Employers' liability tracing office now live  (02-Jun-2011)

An online inquiry service designed to help claimants suffering from a work-related disease or injury find the insurer of their former employer is now live.

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Managers warned over eye tests  (02-Jun-2011)

Fleet managers must do more to ensure that their company drivers undergo regular eyesight tests, road safety campaigners have warned. Experts recommend that everyone should have an eye test at least every two years and whenever there is cause for concern.

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World Environmental Day 5th June  (02-Jun-2011)

Managing environmental impacts is something that all businesses should do. Clearly, there will be different impacts in different businesses and sectors, but every business will have some impacts and these will be linked to the business’ bottom line.

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Is mandatory GHG reporting on its way?  (02-Jun-2011)

It has been on the cards for a while, but the Government is now consulting on whether to introduce mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting for some UK companies.

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Amended Water Regulations in Scotland  (02-Jun-2011)

The Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations (CAR) 2011 came into force on 31st March 2011, consolidating and revoking the 2005 Regulations of the same name.

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Firms urged to carry out environmental assessments  (01-Jun-2011)

All contractors and demolition firms are being advised to ensure they carry out a thorough environmental assessment before starting work at a site.

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Music industry worker's hearing could be at risk  (01-Jun-2011)

According to the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), those working within the music industry could be placing their hearing at risk.

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Firms find H&S 'yellow tape' a burden  (27-May-2011)

According to a new survey, almost half of businesses across the UK class Health and Safety (H&S) 'yellow tape' as burdensome.

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HSE's RIDDOR consultation closes  (26-May-2011)

The three-month consultation into changes to RIDDOR has been concluded by The Health and Safety Executive.

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Flexible working easing stress for fathers  (26-May-2011)

Fathers who work flexibly in the private sector are less stressed and enjoy better health, according to new research.

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Joinery firm fined due to wood dust exposure levels  (24-May-2011)

Fines have been levied upon a Bristol-based joinery and staircase firm following its failure to control exposure to wood dust.

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Ashcloud could hit the UK again  (23-May-2011)

Just over a year after the major disruption caused by Iceland's Eyjafjallajökull Volcano, there has been another major eruption - this time, from a volcano named Grimsvotn.

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EA prosecutes illegal waste site owner  (23-May-2011)

The Environment Agency has successfully prosecuted a man for running an illegal waste site in Yorkshire.

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Planned HSE reporting raises safety fears  (20-May-2011)

From September 2011, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), will change the way in which accidents are reported.

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Huhne pledges to halve UK carbon emissions  (19-May-2011)

Carbon emissions in the UK will be halved from 1990 levels by 2025, according to Energy Secretary Chris Huhne, alongside huge changes to the way in which energy is produced.

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Firms benefit from making workplace more 'mentally healthy'  (19-May-2011)

The Chief Executive of mental health charity Mind has advised employers to make their workplaces more 'mentally healthy.'

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Firms urged to review fire risks  (18-May-2011)

Fire and Rescue Services (FRS) are cracking down on the fire call-outs they will and won't attend, due to a growing number of false alarms. As a result of this, companies across the UK are being urged to review their fire risks and fire procedures.

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More information needed on recruiting ex-offenders  (17-May-2011)

According to new research from Business in the Community (BITC), businesses want more information on recruiting ex-offenders.

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First firm to be tried under Corporate Manslaughter Act loses appeal  (17-May-2011)

An appeal by Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings Ltd against a corporate manslaughter conviction has been lost.

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Flexible parental leave consulation launched  (16-May-2011)

A consultation has been launched by the Government to consider making the parental leave system more flexible.

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Environment Agency calls for more green disclosures  (16-May-2011)

A new Environmental Disclosures study of more than 500 FTSE All-share firms has found that they are being increasingly up-front about their green performance.

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Employees' trust in their managers hits new low  (12-May-2011)

According to a new survey, the level of confidence and trust that employees have in their managers has fallen to a record low.

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CIPD launches code of conduct consultation  (12-May-2011)

A revised code of professional conduct has been published by the CIPD. Members now have until 15 July to give their thoughts on the code, which covers behaviour, integrity and ethics within the workplace.

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Restaurant owners targeted by HMRC  (12-May-2011)

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has revealed that it is to hunt down tax evaders with a series of special units.

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Government employment law review extended  (11-May-2011)

The Government's employment law review is to be extended in a bid to remove some of the restrictions placed on employers.

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Employees' trust in their managers hits new low  (10-May-2011)

According to a new survey, the level of confidence and trust that employees have in their managers has fallen to a record low.

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Guidance published to assist with AWR introduction  (10-May-2011)

In a bid to help employers prepare for the roll out of the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR), the government has published new guidance.

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Boardroom diversity consultation launched  (09-May-2011)

A consultation into whether listed firms should be required to publish their gender diversity policies has been launched.

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Firm prosecuted for safety failings after worker death  (06-May-2011)

A 55-year old man was killed in a workplace accident whilst working for a London-based car mat manufacturer.

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Free Employment Law & HR Webinar  (06-May-2011)

Mentor is running a free webinar on the 11th May to keep you up to date on recent changes to UK Employment Law and business regulations.

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Sickness absence falling  (05-May-2011)

According to new research into sickness absence, a record number of people took no sick days whatsoever last year.

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Union rep warns about HSE cutbacks  (04-May-2011)

A Scottish union official has warned that Government safety cutbacks could result in more deaths in the workplace.

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Energy bills could rise  (03-May-2011)

Firms could be adding to the cost of their energy bills if they get their environmental reporting wrong, according to new research by PricewaterhouseCoopers.

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"Plan for Growth" sets regulation agenda  (03-May-2011)

Coinciding with the 2011 Budget, the government published its "Plan for Growth" on 23rd March.

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National Minimum Wage to increase from 1st October  (03-May-2011)

The Government has accepted the Low Pay Commission's recommendations on the next increase to the National Minimum Wage (NMW), due on 1st October.

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Bribery Act in force  (03-May-2011)

The Government has announced that the long-awaited Bribery Act will come into force on 1st July this year, following the publication of new government guidance on how the Act will work.

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The Red Tape Challenge  (03-May-2011)

The Government has launched a website that offers the public, businesses and community organisations the chance to have their say on regulations that affect their lives.

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£50,000 fine following horrific incident  (03-May-2011)

A man with learning difficulties died and five other vulnerable adults suffered agonising internal injuries after confusing dishwasher fluid with orange squash and drinking it on a council organised trip.

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Fire safety guidance for care homes  (03-May-2011)

The National Association for Safety and Health in Care Services (NASHiCS) and the Chief Fire Officers' Association (CFOA) have developed additional guidance for operators of residential care premises.

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New Body Replacing Care Commission - only in Scotland  (03-May-2011)

From April 1 2011 the Care Commission will no longer exist and a new body, Social Care and Social Work Improvement Scotland (SCSWIS) will inspect, regulate and support improvement of social care and social work services across Scotland.

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Environmental Agency - WM2 Technical Guidance Update  (03-May-2011)

The Environment Agency's technical guidance document 'WM2 Technical Guidance – Hazardous Waste' has been updated.

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The Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011  (03-May-2011)

We reported in our last legal update about the impending Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011. The regulations have now been passed and came into force on the 29th March 2011.

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New Waste Management Licensing Regulations in Scotland  (03-May-2011)

The Waste Management Licensing (Scotland) Regulations 2011 came into force in Scotland on 27th March 2011. The regulations consolidate The Waste Management Licensing Regulation (as amended) into one piece of legislation.

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Staff absence costing employers £32 billion a year  (28-Apr-2011)

According to new research from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), workers in the UK take an average of ten days unscheduled absence each year, costing their employers dear.

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Farmer fined for breaching environmental regulations  (27-Apr-2011)

A dairy farmer based in North Devon has been prosecuted by the Environment Agency following slurry pollution.

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Firms urged to submit Employer Annual Returns before deadline  (26-Apr-2011)

HM Revenue and Customs has issued a reminder to employers across the country about Employer Annual Returns.

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Private schools urged not to fret royal wedding celebration regulations  (21-Apr-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reassured private schools that are organising events to celebrate the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton not to let perceived health and safety limitations quell their fun.

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Recycling company fined for illegal waste storage  (21-Apr-2011)

A South Yorkshire recycling services firm has been fined £20,000 after and Environment Agency (EA) investigation found that they had been illegally storing industrial waste, including oil and asbestos.

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Exceptional response to Red Tape Challenge in first week  (19-Apr-2011)

Participation in the government's bureaucracy-cutting consultation, the Red Tape Challenge, has exceeded all of the organisers' expectations in just the first week since its launch.

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CBI calls for changes to the "failing" tribunal system  (18-Apr-2011)

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has called for changes to the national employment tribunal system, which it says is currently "failing" both employers and workers.

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Survey shows businesses fears over paternity laws  (14-Apr-2011)

New research carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has highlighted the dread with which many of the UK's small businesses are viewing the newly-implemented laws on paternity leave.

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National Minimum Wage changes  (14-Apr-2011)

The Government has accepted the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations on the next increase to the National Minimum Wage, due on 1st October.

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Cost-cutting builder jailed for dangerous gas and electrical work  (13-Apr-2011)

A builder who attempted to cut costs by installing his own gas and electrical systems has been jailed for four months

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Developer given suspended sentence for ignoring asbestos  (12-Apr-2011)

A property developer has received a 12-month suspended sentence and ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service after failing to protect his workers from exposure to asbestos at a North Wales nightclub he was developing.

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Unpaid internships  (11-Apr-2011)

More must be done by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to crack down on what the Low Pay Commission (LPC) has branded illegal unpaid internships.

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Government to cut red tape  (08-Apr-2011)

The British public is being challenged to do its bit to cut governmental red tape

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Minimum wage to rise to £6.08  (07-Apr-2011)

Britain's lowest-paid workers will gain significantly from the raising of the national minimum wage by 15p in October, according to Business Secretary, Vince Cable.

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Fitness firm fined for breaching EA regulations  (06-Apr-2011)

A Milton Keynes-based fitness product firm has been fined for breaching packaging regulations.

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Retirement Age abolished today  (06-Apr-2011)

The abolition of the national default retirement age comes into force today (6th April).

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Health and Safety inquiry launched in Scotland  (05-Apr-2011)

An inquiry into health and safety across Scotland has been launched by The Commons Scottish Affairs Committee.

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HSE Delivery Plan sets out aims for coming year  (04-Apr-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has set out its plans for the coming year with the publication of its Delivery Plan.

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Overloaded crane accident costs company nearly £30,000  (01-Apr-2011)

A motor parts manufacturer from Cheshire is facing a payout of nearly £30,000 after an accident that saw a 31-tonne load dropped from an overhead crane.

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Working at height failings lead to fine  (01-Apr-2011)

Businesses across the country have been reminded that correct regulations must be followed when employees are working at height.

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Energy ratings should be displayed  (31-Mar-2011)

All non-residential buildings should have to display energy efficiency ratings as part of the new Energy Bill, according to calls from the UK Green Building Council.

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Employment regulation changes you need to know about in April 2011  (30-Mar-2011)

Although the government has announced a moratorium on further domestic regulation for SME businesses with fewer than 10 staff, there is a raft of changes already in the pipeline for April.

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Health & Safety Reforms announced  (30-Mar-2011)

A package of changes to Britain’s health and safety system was announced this week by Employment Minister Chris Grayling.

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Agency workers not given adequate training  (30-Mar-2011)

A company has been fined after three workers were taken to hospital following a chemical incident at a vegetable grower and supplier.

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Care Home fined over fire safety breaches  (30-Mar-2011)

The owners of a care home in Rochdale have been fined almost £5,000 under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

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Fish Pedicures and many feet...  (30-Mar-2011)

A novel way of getting rid of hard or dead skin on the feet involves immersing your feet in a tank filled with Garra rufa fish.

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Suspended sentences for skip company directors  (30-Mar-2011)

An Essex couple who ran an illegal skip hire company have both been given suspended prison sentences and curfews.

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£14,500 for Waste Permit breaches  (30-Mar-2011)

A Hampshire company that failed to obtain the necessary permits for its waste and recycling operation has been ordered to pay a total of £14,515 by magistrates.

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Owner of garden centre fined for burning waste  (30-Mar-2011)

The owner of a Somerset garden centre has been ordered to pay more than £15,700 in fines and costs for illegally burning trade waste.

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Shopworkers' union concerned  (29-Mar-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive's proposed risk assessment for shops has caused concern within shopworkers' union, Usdaw.

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Poultry unit prosecuted  (29-Mar-2011)

A Sibsey, Boston-based poultry unit has been fined following its failure to comply with odour management regulations

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HSE issues amended guidelines  (25-Mar-2011)

New best practice guidelines have been issued by the (HSE) to highlight to farming and agriculture workers the risks of using hand-held spraying equipment while driving all terrain vehicles, such as quad bikes and mini tractors.

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Budget deregulation will "save £350 million"  (24-Mar-2011)

Measures aimed at cutting “red tape” for business announced in yesterday’s budget will save business £350 million, according to a statement released by the Treasury today.

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Many employers not ready for Additional Paternity Leave rules  (24-Mar-2011)

According to new research, forty per cent of employers are not geared up for new regulations relating to Additional Paternity Leave (APL).

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SEPA launches waste data consultation  (24-Mar-2011)

A public consultation has been launched by The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) detailing a waste data strategy for the country.

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Climate week kicks off  (24-Mar-2011)

A host of organisations, schools and local councils across the UK are taking part in Climate Week 2011.

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Micro-businessess to be exempt from new regulation  (21-Mar-2011)

Businesses employing fewer than 10 staff could be exempt from any new regulation, employment minister Mark Prisk announced on Friday.

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Health and Safety system set for changes  (21-Mar-2011)

Employment Minister Chris Grayling has announced a series of proposed changes to Britain’s health and safety system.

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Protecting Vulnerable Groups Webinar  (21-Mar-2011)

Mentor is hosting a free webinar on the new Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme in Scotland.

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Piping company ordered to pay £30,000  (18-Mar-2011)

A Lincolnshire-based manufacturer of plastic piping used in the construction industry is facing more than £30,000 in fines and cost after being found culpable of health and safety breaches that resulted in the injury of a worker.

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Jobs removed from shortage occupation list  (17-Mar-2011)

Eight occupations are to be removed from the shortage occupation list under new government plans.

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Roofing firm fined following electrocution  (16-Mar-2011)

A Newbury-based roofing firm has been fined £70,000 following a workplace accident in which a male employee was electrocuted.

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Many schools becoming academies to save money  (16-Mar-2011)

A new survey has suggested that many secondary schools across England are choosing to become academies in a bid to save money.

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Doughnut company prosecuted over waste failings  (14-Mar-2011)

Krispy Kreme UK Ltd has been prosecuted by the Environment Agency following breaches of packaging waste obligations.

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£60,000 fine imposed for recyling industrial accident  (11-Mar-2011)

A Dutch waste recycling firm has been fined £60,000 by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for an industrial incident that saw a worker lose part of his arm.

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New campaign crackdowns on illegal waste carriers  (11-Mar-2011)

The Environment Agency has prosecuted several individuals in Cumbria for operating as waste carriers without being registered to do so.

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Environmental Health Departments hit by cuts  (10-Mar-2011)

According to a new survey from the Chartered Institute for Environmental Health's journal EHN, environmental health departments are suffering as a result of budget cuts.

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Wrongfull death compensation bill passed  (08-Mar-2011)

Proposals from a Member of the Scottish Parliament to simplify the wrongful deaths compensation system have been backed by politicians across Scotland.

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Right to ask stafff to retire ends on 5th April  (08-Mar-2011)

The Government has now confirmed that it is proceeding quickly to abolish the default retirement age

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HSE praise development site for good practice  (04-Mar-2011)

Inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive may be more used to enforcing safety standards at British employment and construction sites, but they are not beyond bestowing praise on sites that have gone above and beyond the statutory requirements.

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DRA regulations amended  (04-Mar-2011)

The draft regulations to abolish the default retirement age (DRA) have been amended, The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has confirmed.

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Employers not prepared for Agency Workers Regulations  (02-Mar-2011)

The vast majority of UK employers remain unprepared for the new Agency Workers Regulations (AWR).

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Unpaid internships may be illegal  (01-Mar-2011)

The vast majority of managers do not realise that unpaid internships may now be illegal, according to new research.

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Firms urged to increase female board representation  (01-Mar-2011)

UK listed companies in the FTSE 100 should be striving to fill at least 25 per cent of their boards with women by 2015, according to Lord Davies of Abersoch.

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Environmental Damage legislation being used  (28-Feb-2011)

Environmental damage legislation has been used by Mid Devon District Council; the first instance of the 2009 regulations being used.

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Do you use lifting equipment  (28-Feb-2011)

If you use lifting equipment then you could pay a hefty price for not carrying out statutory thorough examinations and inspections

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Clean up your employees' welfare  (28-Feb-2011)

A London window manufacturer has been prosecuted for ignoring two Improvement Notices requiring them to bring employee welfare facilities up to a clean and hygienic standard

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HSE spot checks  (25-Feb-2011)

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors have shut down four building sites in Merseyside

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Flood defence cuts  (24-Feb-2011)

The BPF has warned that planned cuts to flood defence spending could damage businesses across the country.

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Firm fined following accident  (24-Feb-2011)

A meat processing firm has been fined following a serious workplace accident.

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SEPA reveals positive recycling statistics for Scotland  (23-Feb-2011)

SEPA reveal that Scotland is recycling more waste than ever before

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CBI calling for greater clarity on Green Deal  (22-Feb-2011)

The Green Deal - the Government's flagship energy efficiency scheme - needs to provide 'greater clarity' on how it will be marketed and financed, says the CBI

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Employment regulation costs to exceed £23.8 billion in next four years  (18-Feb-2011)

The cost to British employers of a raft of new changes to employment law in the next four years will amount to more than £23.8 billion, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

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Company fined for corporate manslaughter  (17-Feb-2011)

The first company to be tried and convicted under the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 has been fined £385,000 for the death of a man who was killed when a trench collapsed on him.

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No time to train for employees of SMEs  (17-Feb-2011)

The Government has today announced that it will not be extending the right to request time off for training to employees of businesses with fewer that 250 employees.

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EC urged to avoid EU-wide paternity legislation  (16-Feb-2011)

A submission has been made to the European Commission (EC) to urge it to avoid rolling out EU-wide legislation regarding paternity leave.

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Firm fined for importing toxic fireworks  (16-Feb-2011)

In a landmark case, a firm has been prosecuted for importing fireworks containing the harmful chemical hexachlorobenzene (HCB).

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Man charged with fraud over fabricated CV  (14-Feb-2011)

A man who landed a £165,000-a-year role at an investment bank has been charged with fraud following the discovery that he invented 'large sections' of his CV.

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Vetting and Barring scheme scrapped  (14-Feb-2011)

The Deputy Prime Minister has announced plans to scrap the controversial Vetting and Barring scheme in England and Wales.

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New help for SMEs  (11-Feb-2011)

The Prime Minister, David Cameron, has announced new help to encourage more SMEs to bid for government contracts.

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Protection of Freedoms bill scales back employment vetting  (11-Feb-2011)

The Government has scrapped the background vetting scheme that required more than nine million people to undergo record checks, in a bid to cut down on state bureaucracy.

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More energy efficiency training needed  (10-Feb-2011)

According to new research, employers could be doing far more to inform their employees about ways to improve their energy efficiency at work.

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May day bank holiday could be moved  (09-Feb-2011)

Under new proposals currently being considered by the government, the May Day Bank Holiday could be moved to October.

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SEPA advises on going green  (08-Feb-2011)

A new document has been published by The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) advising Scotland on how to achieve its sustainable energy goals.

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Ageing population will impact workplace, warns ACAS  (08-Feb-2011)

According to employment relations service ACAS, employers should put plans into place for the impact an ageing population is likely to have on the workplace.

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New safety checks ordered on The Wizard of Oz  (04-Feb-2011)

A plan to build a real Yellow Brick Road outside the upcoming West End musical adaptation of the Wizard of Oz is facing scrutiny from health and safety inspectors.

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Extra employment tribunal fine causing controversy  (03-Feb-2011)

Firms could face further fines on top of any compensation pay-out imposed if an employment tribunal (ET) has found that they have breached a staff member's rights, according to proposed government legislation.

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Consultation into RIDDOR changes  (02-Feb-2011)

A three-month consultation into proposed changes to RIDDOR 1995 has been opened by The Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

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Corporate manslaughter trial begins  (01-Feb-2011)

The corporate manslaughter trial against an engineering consultancy over the death of one of its employees, has begun.

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Composting company fined  (01-Feb-2011)

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has levied a fine against a Perthshire-based composting company following odour complaints.

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Employer's Charter launched  (28-Jan-2011)

A new Employer’s Charter was launched by Vince Cable, the Business Secretary, yesterday (27th January).

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Fire spending cuts could increase deaths  (28-Jan-2011)

The Government has been warned that fire service spending cuts could increase the likelihood of injuries and deaths occurring.

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Cable announces proposals to reduce tribunal claims  (27-Jan-2011)

The Business Secretary, Vince Cable, announced proposals to reduce the number of claims made in employment tribunals today.

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Post-traumatic stress highlighted  (26-Jan-2011)

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) held an event recently entitled 'How employees cope with deaths they witness at work'.

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New Scottish retail tax could contravene EU law  (25-Jan-2011)

A proposed new tax law that is aimed at helping small retailers in Scotland compete fairly against the big brands could be in contravention of EU law.

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New Powers to tackle uninsured cars  (25-Jan-2011)

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning has announced that new powers to tackle uninsured driving will come into force soon. Within the next few months, it will be an offence to keep an uninsured vehicle as well as to drive while uninsured.

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Third time not so lucky  (25-Jan-2011)

Unbelievably, three different employees fell through skylights on the same roof at three separate times.

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Government urged not to implement all of Lord Yong’s review  (25-Jan-2011)

The Government has been urged by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) not to implement all the proposals suggested in Lord Young's review, ‘Common Sense, Common Safety’.

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Risk Assessment for biological agents  (25-Jan-2011)

The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work has released a useful and informative 'e-fact' document, number 53, on biological risk assessment.

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Environment Agency gets new enforcement powers  (25-Jan-2011)

The Environment Agency (EA) has been granted new enforcement powers, known as civil sanctions.

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Two charged in hazardous waste probe  (25-Jan-2011)

Two people have been charged with illegally storing and disposing of hazardous waste at various locations across Northern England.

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Site waste management plans to be extended to Northern Ireland  (25-Jan-2011)

A consultation paper has been released seeking stakeholder views on proposals to require site waste management plans for all construction projects in Northern Ireland.

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HSE launches investigation  (24-Jan-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive has launched an investigation into a workplace accident that happened on Friday in Norfolk, in which four workers were crushed to death.

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Bupa fined for H&S failings  (21-Jan-2011)

Private healthcare provider, Bupa, has been fined £150,000 for health and safety failings that saw an elderly resident of one of their care homes strangled to death by the lap belt of her wheelchair.

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Scrapyard manager sentenced  (21-Jan-2011)

A scrapyard manager based in Fife has been handed a community service sentence following his acceptance of waste vehicles despite a licence suspension.

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Business give mixed response to parental leave amendments  (20-Jan-2011)

Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, has outlined proposals that aim to reshape the employment laws that govern parental leave, with the aim of evening out maternity and paternity leave, allowing parents greater flexibility.

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European working conditions survey highlights hazards  (20-Jan-2011)

According to this year's European Working Conditions Survey, physical hazards remain just as much of an issue for workers across Europe as they did two decades ago.

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Proposals for paternity leave set out  (18-Jan-2011)

The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, set out the latest government proposals for “family-friendly” rights in the workplace yesterday (Monday 17th January) in a speech to the political think-tank Demos

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Firms breaching minimum wage regulations to be named  (18-Jan-2011)

Those companies deliberately breaching laws governing minimum wages will be publicly named and shamed in line with a new government scheme.

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Employment Law review aimed at helping employers  (18-Jan-2011)

David Cameron has announced plans for a comprehensive review of Britain's employment laws, with a view to making it easier for firms to take necessary actions to help economic growth.

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HSE issues scissor lift safety warning  (18-Jan-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a safety alert to users of certain scissor lifts after a spate of deaths.

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IOSH urges Government not to implement entire review  (18-Jan-2011)

In a bid to avoid 'overly simplistic solutions,' the government has been urged by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) not to implement all the proposals suggested in Lord Young's review.

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Government ends default retirement age  (13-Jan-2011)

The Government has today confirmed that it will abolish the national default retirement age of 65yrs old from 1st October this year

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EU chemicals watchdog aims to improve worker safety  (12-Jan-2011)

As part of a drive to improve employee safety, the EU has announced that its chemicals watchdog is to publish an inventory containing more than 20,000 hazardous chemicals.

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Amendments to tribunal procedures called for  (12-Jan-2011)

The time in which employment tribunals take to be completed must be streamlined to avoid businesses seeing their growth prospects significantly hindered, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

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Widow receives compensation  (12-Jan-2011)

A substantial compensation payout has been awarded to a woman whose husband died of asbestos-related cancer.

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'Fee for fault' policy considered by HSE  (12-Jan-2011)

The Chair of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced that the body is considering rolling out a 'fee for fault' policy.

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No pension scheme offered by majority of small firms  (10-Jan-2011)

Two-thirds of small companies across the UK offer no pension scheme to employees, new research from the Association of Consulting Actuaries (ACA) has revealed.

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New Year safety pledge pushed by HSE  (10-Jan-2011)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has urged companies across the country to take a fresh look at their health and safety procedures for 2011

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EC launch consultation into working hours  (06-Jan-2011)

The European Commission has launched the second stage of its consultation relating to the EU Working Time Directive.

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HSE rolls out new safety advice  (06-Jan-2011)

The HSE is warning people who use hand-fed platen die cutting machines to be aware of new operating and safety guidance.

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Firms warned over energy wastage  (06-Jan-2011)

Failing to switch off computers and monitors over weekends, bank holidays or staff holidays could result in mass energy wastage, as well as costing firms more than £41 million.

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New law balances travel expenses and minimum wage  (05-Jan-2011)

Employers will not be able to deduct travel expenses from employees on the minimum wage under a new law that took effect on New Year's Day.

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Pharmaceutical company fined  (30-Dec-2010)

A pharmaceutical company based in Swindon has been prosecuted by the HSE after several of its employees were affected by a potent chemical.

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Employers urged to offer more assistance  (30-Dec-2010)

Research that revealed that many disabled people would like to work more has prompted calls for employers to step up their efforts to assist those with disabilities.

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Timber merchants fined  (22-Dec-2010)

A subcontracted mechanical fitter at a timber merchants has been seriously injured in a workplace accident.

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Defra announces budget cuts  (22-Dec-2010)

More than one-fifth of the budgets allocated to the Environment Agency and Natural England will be slashed over the next four years, The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced.

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New statutory payments rates announced  (22-Dec-2010)

The Government has announced the annual upgrading of various statutory benefits received by employees, including maternity, paternity and sick pay.

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A quarter of European employees suffer ill health caused by work  (22-Dec-2010)

New research from the European Foundation for Improvement of Living and Working Conditions has found that older people in manual roles, women and employees without fixed-term contracts are among the most vulnerable workers in Europe.

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Firms urged to grit premises and keep evidence of doing so  (22-Dec-2010)

Disruption caused by snow and ice will continue throughout the winter.

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CLP Regulation  (22-Dec-2010)

The Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals Regulation (CLP) came into force in January 2009. The first transition period ended on 1st December 2010.

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Environmental fines on the rise  (22-Dec-2010)

Figures from the Environment Agency show that in 2008 the average fine for company prosecutions rose to over £12,000 per offence; this is almost a 20% increase in the previous year’s average fine.

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ISO 14001 continues to grow in the grip of recession  (22-Dec-2010)

Research conducted by the IEMA shows that as of 30th June 2010, the number of ISO 14001 certificates issued by UKAS accredited certification bodies stood at 8,648.

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CRC Update  (22-Dec-2010)

The first UK CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC) league table is due to be published in April 2011. How will your business stack up?

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European Commission launches new strategy  (21-Dec-2010)

A new Strategy on Equal Opportunities has been launched by the European Commission to cover the period until 2014.

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HSE announces injury reporting consultation  (17-Dec-2010)

A consultation plan has been agreed on by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that will explore the available options in amending the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR).

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Cable pledges end to legal 'gold plating'  (16-Dec-2010)

The Business Secretary, Vince Cable, announced yesterday that he would put an end to the “gold plating” of EU laws when applying them to the UK.

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Stationery firm fined following work accident  (16-Dec-2010)

A Bristol-based stationery supply firm has been fined following a workplace accident in which an employee was seriously injured.

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CBI calls on firms to improve diversity  (16-Dec-2010)

In a bid to boost the number of female employees on boards, all listed companies could be asked to track their progress on the issue.

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CBI criticised for attempting to reopen debate on DRA scrappage  (15-Dec-2010)

Attempts to continue debating the scrapping of the default retirement age are simply unhelpful, say industry experts from Age UK.

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Never too late for ladder safety  (14-Dec-2010)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is warning individuals to take precautions when using ladders in the workplace.

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Food firm fined over Polish worker discrimination  (10-Dec-2010)

A female Polish employee at a food manufacturing plant in Northern Ireland has won £50,000 in damages after her employer was found guilty of allowing sexual and racial discrimination to occur.

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McDonald's fined following work accident  (09-Dec-2010)

Following a work accident in which an employee was left partically blind, McDonald's has been prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive.

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Managers must balance conduct concerns with Christmas party benefits  (08-Dec-2010)

Managers are becoming increasingly wary of workplace Christmas parties, following examples of conflict or inappropriate behaviour at previous events, according to the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).

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HMRC consult on PAYE reforms  (07-Dec-2010)

In a bid to improve and simplify the PAYE system, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has published a consultation document.

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Equality strategy aims to make workplace fairer  (06-Dec-2010)

Employers will be asked to voluntarily publish equality data relating to their workforce, according to the new Equality Strategy set out by Equalities Minister, Lynne Featherstone.

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Government sets out new Equality agenda  (03-Dec-2010)

The Coalition government set out its strategy for Equality today, saying it wants to move away from “defining people simply because they’ve ticked a box on a form”.

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Breastfeeding in the office promoted by Health Secretary  (03-Dec-2010)

A public health White Paper is expected to encourage companies to offer facilities for breastfeeding to allow new mothers to return to work.

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Coroner calls for stricter workplace hygiene checks  (01-Dec-2010)

Spot checks on meat processing plants and abattoirs must be stepped up, a coroner looking into the food poisoning death of a five-year-old from Bridgend in Wales has said.

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Lord Young's role taken over by Mark Prisk  (01-Dec-2010)

Following the resignation of Lord Young, Business Minister Mark Prisk has taken over his review of employment law.

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Businesses benefit from flood awareness campaign  (30-Nov-2010)

A campaign designed to educate Scottish businesses about flooding has been launched today, 30 November, by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

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EA report details environmental performance of businesses  (25-Nov-2010)

The Environment Agency (EA) has published a report detailing the environmental performance of businesses across England and Wales.

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Avoid getting caught in the cold when the snow falls  (25-Nov-2010)

With the cold winds now blowing and the Met Office forecasting “significant” snowfall over much of the UK over the next few days. How can you prepare for it and what can you do if your staff don’t turn up for work?

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Royal wedding gives a public holiday headache  (24-Nov-2010)

The Royal wedding between HRH Prince William and Kate Middleton was announced yesterday – along with an extra public holiday in England and Wales on the day of the wedding – April 29th. The position in Scotland has not yet been announced.

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'Check to protect' scheme postponed  (24-Nov-2010)

Uncertainty surrounds the implementation of the Vetting and Barring schemes both north and south of the border.

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Auto enrolment for pensions to affect all employers  (24-Nov-2010)

Following the release of an independent review into the implementation of pension auto enrolment, the government has agreed that all employers must provide pension schemes or enrol staff in to the new National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) from 2012.

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YUC calls for new minimum wage  (24-Nov-2010)

The meeting in early November between the TUC and the Low Pay Commission (LPC), which advises the government on wages, focused on the minimum wage.

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Company fined for failing to produce insurance certificate  (24-Nov-2010)

A manufacturer of steel pipework has been fined for failing to purchase compulsory insurance to protect its employees. Essex firm Ductwork Environmental Services Ltd was fined £1,000 at Harlow Magistrates' Court today and ordered to pay £750 in costs.

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HSE budget cuts  (24-Nov-2010)

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that the HSE’s budget is to be slashed by 35% by 2014-15.

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Responses to the Lord Yound report  (24-Nov-2010)

The Lord Young report was published on 15 October 2010. The 58 page report reviews the operation of health and safety laws and the growth of the compensation culture.

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The law on clearing snow and ice from public spaces  (24-Nov-2010)

With colder months approaching fast, new guidance has been issued by Directgov on clearing snow and ice from public places.

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HSE Statistics Report 2009/2010  (24-Nov-2010)

The HSE has published its Statistics Report for 2009/2010. It contains figures relating to a number of areas, such as workplace injuries, enforcement, and occupations. A summary of the key facts is set out below.

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Business to be ‘taxed’ £200k per annum  (24-Nov-2010)

ollowing the recent Government Spending Review, changes have been announced to the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC).

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Bicycle wholesaler fined £34,000 for failing to recycle packaging  (24-Nov-2010)

A Nottingham-based importer and wholesaler of bicycles has been fined £34,000 for failing to comply with packaging laws.

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Nine charged in biggest criminal investigation into electrical waste exports  (24-Nov-2010)

The Environment Agency has charged nine people as part of the biggest investigation into illegal electrical waste exports from the UK to West Africa.

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Businesses voice concern  (24-Nov-2010)

Concerns that health and safety and employment law plans may be delayed following Lord Young's resignation have been voiced by businesses.

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Construction firm fined over asbestor removal  (22-Nov-2010)

A Norwich-based construction firm has been fined after pleading guilty to breaching the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006.

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Tribunal awards man £13k  (19-Nov-2010)

A Glasgow-based design and architecture promotional attraction has been told to pay a gay former employee £13,000 by an employment tribunal.

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Proposed cuts could affect employment legal aid  (19-Nov-2010)

The legal aid system is facing a shake-up as the government outlines proposals to make cuts across employment legal aid and other sectors.

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Waste & recycling injuries highest of all  (16-Nov-2010)

New Health and Safety Executive (HSE) figures have revealed that the combined rates of fatal and major injuries in waste and recycling is far higher than in any other industry.

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Scotland encourages businesses to aim for low carbon futures  (15-Nov-2010)

The publication of the Low Carbon Economic Strategy by the Scottish Government aims to encourage businesses to work towards low carbon futures.

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IoD express buisness insurance claim concerns  (12-Nov-2010)

Private businesses could spark an overwhelming rise in the number of business insurances claims as they struggle to deal with ever-expanding employment laws and regulations, a leading business representative has warned.

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Small construction sites targeted by HSE  (12-Nov-2010)

Health and Safety inspectors are targeting small construction sites across London in their latest wave of inspections.

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Firm fined for lack of compulsory ELCI insurance  (12-Nov-2010)

A landscaping firm based in Norfolk failed to purchase Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance (ELCI) and has been fined as a result.

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Conference to investigate impact of business  (09-Nov-2010)

Practical solutions to help cope with environmental challenges will be discussed at this year's Environment Agency conference.

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Calls for employment law to be simplified  (09-Nov-2010)

The Institute of Directors (IoD) has called for employment law in the UK to be simplified to help UK businesses.

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Safety inspection void exposed by TUC  (09-Nov-2010)

New TUC research has found that almost half of UK workplaces have never had a health and safety inspection.

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Tyre firm fined following health and safety breaches  (04-Nov-2010)

A Wolverhampton-based tyre company has been prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) following a workplace accident.

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Check to protect scheme postponed  (03-Nov-2010)

All vets are off as Scottish Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme is postponed and England and ales Vetting and Barring scheme is kicked further into the long grass

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Changes to unfair dismissal protocol on government agenda  (03-Nov-2010)

Plans are afoot to double the length of employee service needed prior to submitting an unfair dismissal claim.

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Today's meeting between the TUC and the Low Pay Commission, (LPC) which advises the government on wages, will focus on the minimum wage  (01-Nov-2010)

Today's meeting between the TUC and the Low Pay Commission, (LPC) which advises the government on wages, will focus on the minimum wage.

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Waste business prosecuted for operating without environmental permit  (29-Oct-2010)

Thousands of old microwave ovens have been illegally stored by a waste business, prompting prosecution from the Environment Agency.

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Work accident figures tempered by tragedies  (29-Oct-2010)

The release of the lowest fatality figures in the construction industry for a decade has been tempered by a tragic week in the industry, which saw the deaths of six construction workers in just five days.

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Auto enrolment for pensions to affect all employers  (27-Oct-2010)

Following the release of an independent review into the implementation of pension auto enrolment, the government has agreed that all employers must provide pension schemes or enrol staff in to the new National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) from 2012.

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HSE budget cuts raise concerns  (27-Oct-2010)

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has revealed that the Health and Safety Executive's (HSE) budget will be slashed by 35 per cent by 2014/15.

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Fruit and veg company fined  (27-Oct-2010)

Failure to comply with packaging regulations has led to fines for a Norwich-based fruit and vegetable company.

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Disabled man compensated under DDA  (22-Oct-2010)

A disabled man has been awarded £6,000 in compensation under the Disability Discrimination Act, after discovering that his manager at work had nicknamed him 'Ironside' behind his back.

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Age-related tribunal claims causing headaches for employers  (21-Oct-2010)

Research from the Confederation of British Industry, (CBI) has revealed that half of all employers are worried about a rise in age-related claims come April 2011, when the default retirement age is phased out.

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Sludge spill to test EU Law  (21-Oct-2010)

European environmental law designed to make companies pay for any environmental damage they cause is facing its first serious test as a result of the Hungarian toxic sludge spill.

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Firms shortlisted for awards  (21-Oct-2010)

Some of Scotland's most eco-friendly businesses have been shortlisted for top environmental awards.

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Flexible working rights to be extended  (20-Oct-2010)

The coalition government has announced that it will extend the right to request flexible working arrangements to all parents of children aged under 18 from April 2011.

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"Responsibility from unions and from business" key to future says Miliband  (20-Oct-2010)

At his maiden speech to the Labour Party conference today, the new Labour leader Ed Miliband outlined his vision for the future.

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Catholic leader says employment law must not deter faith  (20-Oct-2010)

The leader of the Catholic Church in England and Wales has urged his followers not to let employment law concerning religion in the workplace diminish their demonstrations of faith.

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Error - National Minimum Wage  (20-Oct-2010)

The National Minimum Wage rate for 16-17 year olds increased to £3.64 per hour from 1st October.

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Lord Young's Report - What does it mean for business?  (20-Oct-2010)

Lord Young's much awaited report on health & safety legislation and the growth of compensation culture was published on 15th October 2010.

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New guidance for construction sites and fire safety  (20-Oct-2010)

The HSE has published revised guidance on fire safety in construction.

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Early pleas ease pressure on H&S victims  (20-Oct-2010)

Statistics from the Scottish Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) Health and Safety Division's first year of operation reveal that more than 20 cases were resolved without the need for trials by securing early guilty pleas from the accused.

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Company fined for failing to comply with WEEE legislation  (20-Oct-2010)

The Environment Agency has successfully prosecuted a company for failing to comply with packaging waste legislation and for failing to register as a producer of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).

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Environmental Workshop: Using the 'Environment' to Grow Your Business  (20-Oct-2010)

Mentor Services in association with BSI is running a breakfast workshop in the North West of England on Wednesday 10th November.

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Environmental laws outnumbering health & safety  (20-Oct-2010)

Research by NEBOSH between August 2009 and August 2010 found that more than 50 new environmental regulations were introduced compared to just 5 new health & safety regulations during the same period.

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Osborne sets out cuts agenda  (20-Oct-2010)

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, presented the results of the government spending review to Parliament today. The review is important to employers, because it sets the tone of the focus of government activity for the next five years.

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Environment Agency cracks down on illegal waste carriers  (19-Oct-2010)

The Environment Agency has warned that all individuals carrying waste as part of a business enterprise with a view to making a profit must have a licence.

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Young review on health and safety regulation is published  (19-Oct-2010)

Lord Young's much anticipated review of health and safety regulation and practice has been published and all of the policies it contains have been accepted by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.

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Review on H&S published  (15-Oct-2010)

Lord Young’s review into the health and safety regulations and the compensation culture it promotes has been published today.

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Equality body to be slimmed down  (14-Oct-2010)

Hot on the heels of the introduction of the Equality Act, the Government has announced today that the body responsible for enforcing much of it – the ECHR is to be substantially reformed.

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Health and safety failings contribute to worker's death  (13-Oct-2010)

A Nottingham-based firm has been fined for health and safety breaches after a man fell to his death while carrying out roofing work for the company.

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Equality Act to generate rise in employment disputes  (13-Oct-2010)

The implementation of the Equality Act will spark a rise in the number of employment disputes as people become more aware of their rights, lawyers are claiming.

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Veolia heavily fined for litter-picker's death  (13-Oct-2010)

Waste and recycling contractor, Veolia ES (UK), is faced with a fine of £225,000 for a workplace accident in which one of its litter collectors was run down on the side of a busy road and killed.

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Measures sought to define professional usage of Facebook  (13-Oct-2010)

A new law is being considered in Germany that could set a precedent internationally on how much businesses can use material on sites like Facebook and Twitter to gain information on current or prospective employees.

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Incentive schemes improve health and safety  (05-Oct-2010)

British companies could significantly cut the number of workplace accidents and illnesses if they are given incentives to invest in risk prevention by their governments, a major health and safety body has said.

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Businesses call for strike action law change  (04-Oct-2010)

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) is urging the government to urgently reform the laws that define strike action by public sector workers, before the most extreme spending cuts come in.

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Business leaders raise Equality Act cost concerns  (01-Oct-2010)

Representatives of British industry are warning the government to be careful of the amount of new legislation that is accompanying the Equality Act, amid fears that many businesses may not be able to afford it.

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Equality Act now in force  (01-Oct-2010)

Today, 1st October, marks the commencement of the Equality Act 2010. The Act will have a significant impact on employers and there are some things employers need to do, or stop doing, now to avoid the risk of discrimination claims.

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Company overhauls health and safety after fatal fall  (30-Sep-2010)

The parents of a house painter who fell to his death while on a job have welcomed changes to the health and safety practices at his former firm.

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Responsibility key to future says Miliband  (29-Sep-2010)

At his maiden speech to the Labour Party conference today, the new Labour leader Ed Miliband outlined his vision for the future.

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Catholic leader says employment law must not deter faith  (28-Sep-2010)

The leader of the Catholic Church in England and Wales has urged his followers not to let employment law concerning religion in the workplace diminish their demonstrations of faith.

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Employers must be more mindful of workplace stress  (28-Sep-2010)

The psychological risks in a workplace must receive just as careful health and safety considerations as physical risks, a new guide to workplace stress has claimed.

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Health and safety reform on Tory conference agenda  (24-Sep-2010)

Details are emerging of an impending onslaught by the coalition government on health and safety laws that business leaders have blamed for placing a burden on British companies and public services.

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HP-Oracle suit highlights UK employment law issues  (23-Sep-2010)

A courtroom wrangle in the US between computing giants Oracle and Hewlett Packard (HP) is being monitored closely by employment law specialists in the UK to see what legal precedent – if any – it sets.

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Check you're up-to-date with October changes  (23-Sep-2010)

Summer’s over the nights are drawing in….and as usual, the arrival of autumn brings a further set of employment regulation changes for employers to get to grips with.

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National Minimum Wage  (23-Sep-2010)

Currently only staff aged 22 or over are legally entitled to receive the adult rate of NMW but from 1st October they will qualify to for the full adult rate from the age of 21.

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Time Off to Train derailed  (23-Sep-2010)

The future of one of the previous government’s flagship schemes now looks doubtful after the announcement of a complete review of the scheme by the coalition government.

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Company receives greater fines for ignoring complaints  (22-Sep-2010)

A Southampton businessman has been deemed liable by default judgement for a woman's £40,000 unpaid wages and sexual discrimination claim, after it emerged he and his company had ignored her initial claims and complaints.

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Coalition opinions on employment law widely split  (21-Sep-2010)

The issues of employment law and workers' rights are the subject of a major difference of opinion in the coalition government, a new survey has revealed.

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