2005 - August
A new client has said that it will only do business with you if you’re able to produce a satisfactory method statement. Is this a legal requirement, and if not, what are the key elements to consider?
A production process changed recently, meaning that you now have a requirement for a new cleaning product. What are the key health, safety and environmental factors to consider before you make the purchase?
Getting your staff to wear and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can be a constant battle. How can you make life easier and ensure that the costs of providing the equipment don’t escalate out of control?
Behavioural safety - more than BS?
You’re increasingly hearing the phrase “behavioural safety”. What does it really mean? Could your business benefit from it in an easy way or is it just an abstract concept applied by the larger employers?
Don’t slip up with inspections
The HSE is about to launch its latest “slips and trips” initiative. What’s so different this time around? And what can you do to stay ahead of the game?
You operate a highly mechanised business. You’re about to take on two 17-year old apprentices and are worried about their exposure to mechanical hazards. How can you assess those risks and what control measures must you have?
Knowing an emergency button was broken but still allowing people to enter dangerous machinery has just resulted in a criminal prosecution by the HSE. What should you have in place to ensure this doesn’t happen to you?
Overseas workers and unfair dismissal
With an increasingly global economy, you may need to employ staff who are based overseas. Whilst you’re not expecting problems, you want to know if you could be sued for unfair dismissal. What’s the current legal position?
An employee’s just asked for an advance on next month’s salary - he’s moving home and is a bit strapped for cash. You’ve never done this sort of thing before, so what’s involved?
Avoiding post-pregnancy discrimination
As case law has shown, you need to take care with the employment of women returning from maternity. So what should you have in place to avoid allegations of sex discrimination?
You’re planning on taking on a few agency staff for a specific project. However, you’re concerned about your potential liability for Internet and e-mail abuse. What easy steps can you take to protect yourself?
An employee’s been provisionally selected for redundancy. You know that you’re obliged to offer him suitable alternative employment. Does this extend to providing full salary details about the new position?
The government has announced that more family-friendly employment policies are on the way. What are the latest changes that you should be aware of?