Keep It Safe - JAN/FEB 2025

BFFF INITITIVES

NEWSLETTER

KEEP IT SAFE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

Foreword

We remind our members that BFFF can answer any of your Safety, Health and Fire Queries using our own in-house experience or by asking our Health & Safety Expert Group. If this fails we have the back up of our Primary Authority partnerships to provide absolute advice on topics relating to Health & Safety, Fire, Food Safety, Food Hygiene, Allergens and Trading Standards.

Should the above fail to deliver we set about writing industry level guidance.

Simon Brentnall CMIOSH PIEMA AIFSM We are now busy designing our 2025 Health & Safety Conference Programme, the event this year will take place at the British Motor Museum in Warwick, as always we aim to provide a wide range of speakers on the topics you need to know more about, tickets are already on sale.

Queries answered for BFFF members in Jan/Feb include the following topics: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Provision and use of work equipment risk assessments Machinery Maintenance Fumes from cooking oils Storage of retail freezers Racking Inspections Hand Injury Campaign Wet/Dry Sprinklers Accident frequency rate formulae Passenger Lift Statutory Requirements Health Questionnaires Ammonia Leak RIDDOR

To raise a query simply e-mail me at: simonbrentnall@BFFF.co.uk

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CONTENTS BFFF INITITIVES BFFF Chair Food And Drink Manufacture (FDMF) Leadership And Workforce Engagement Group Strategy

ENFORCEMENT 3

3

Initiatives Ideas Discussed

3

The BFFF Health & Safety Pledge

3

The BFFF Annual Health & Safety Conference 2025 BFFF Membership Accident Statistic Report 2023

4 5

FIRE SAFETY The Hidden Danger: Fire Water Run-Off During An Incident Introduction

6

Understanding Fire Water Run-Off

6

Types Of Pollutants

6

Environmental Impact

7

Aquatic Ecosystems

7

Soil And Groundwater

7

Public Health Concerns

7

Community Impact

7

Mitigation And Management

7

Prevention

7

Containment

7

Remediation

7

Conclusion

8

6

SAFETY FOCUS The Importance Of Protecting Lone Workers In The Food And Drink Industry How Soloprotect Supports Lone Workers In The Food And Drink Industry Strengthening Safety Culture In The Food And Drink Industry

9 9 10

Drinks Giant Fined After Worker Sustains Serious Burns Northampton Restaurant Owner Fined For Fire Safety Breaches £300k Fine For Company Producing Electricity From Food Waste

11 11 11

GUIDANCE Electrical Safety: A Free Guide To Managing Electrical Risks At Work Neurodiversity At Work

13

Terrorism Bill Concludes Lords Committee Stage – Proposed Capacity For Qualifying Premises Including Food Retailers To 300 Proposed Changes

14

13

14

TRANSPORT HUB AI Cameras Catch Drivers Using Mobile Phones HGVS Given Star Ratings Call To Action For BFFF Members To Have Their Say On Net Zero Fleet

15 16 17

BFFF INITITIVES Please don’t forget there are a number of leadership and worker engagement tools hosted on the BFFF website, these can be used to measure of how effective your organisations leadership and workforce engagement are currently. See below link: Guidance — British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF)

BFFF CHAIR FOOD AND DRINK MANUFACTURE (FDMF) LEADERSHIP AND WORKFORCE ENGAGEMENT GROUP BFFF recently chaired the FDMF Leadership and Workforce Engagement (LWE) focus group. This was attended well by Morrisons, Nomad Foods, UK Flour Millers and Gordon & Macphail.

Strategy The strategic objective was discussed, this being how food and drink manufacturing companies can exhibit evidence of effective leadership from their senior leaders on key health and safety issues’ and agree initial areas of focus and potential initiatives’.

Initiatives Ideas Discussed Leadership Charter – We discussed briefly how executives could sign up to the leadership objectives/goals in a charter, Standalone Conference – We discussed holding a standalone Leadership conference aimed at senior managers and directors,

THE BFFF HEALTH & SAFETY PLEDGE

We discussed how leadership decisions impact the workforce and where each member of the group could potentially share a story/case study to help advocate good leadership/culture at a senior level.

The BFFF Health & Safety Pledge aligns itself to the above strategy and our members can play their part by requesting a certificate which indicates the company are committed to these values.

The group’s aim is to drive Leadership and Workforce Engagement in the food industry as part of the FDMF common strategy.

To register your commitment to these values and receive a certificate to display in your premises, please contact: simonbrentnall@BFFF.co.uk

If you would like to get involved and attend the first meeting, please contact simonbrentnall@BFFF.co.uk

3

BFFF INITITIVES

THE BFFF ANNUAL HEALTH & SAFETY CONFERENCE 2025 We are pleased to announce that our annual Health & Safety conference is taking place on 13th May 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity to brush up on your knowledge, update your CPD and connect with colleagues and our industry specialists. We have again this year chosen the British Motor Museum, Banbury Road, Gaydon, Warwick CV35 0BJ which makes for the perfect venue and also includes free entrance to the museum time willing!

From your previous feedback we have been busy designing a programme to tackle the following OSH topics: • • • • • • • • •

Lone Working Machinery Fire Safety Update Health & Safety Leadership Workplace Transport Legal Update Health & Safety – Let’s get back to basics!

Diphoterine ‘A Game Changer’ Hidden in Plain Sight: Modern Slavery in the food sector

*Programme may be subject to change To secure your place we have member and nonmember rates, please see link below: Health & Safety and Technical Conference — British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF)

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BFFF INITITIVES BFFF MEMBERSHIP ACCIDENT STATISTIC REPORT 2023 We are delighted to share our membership accident statistics with you for 2023. The data is gained from a selection of BFFF members who employ 25,598 people. Each year, we request that our members submit their accident statistics from the previous year. Once this data is collated it provides an excellent management tool which enables companies to benchmark their current OSH performance against that of the BFFF members in the same sector. In 2023, Manual Handling and Slips & Trips were in the top 3 for ‘All Accidents’ across all 3 sectors of membership (Producers, Wholesalers and Logistic Service Providers).

Should you wish to compare your company accident statistics to similar companies within BFFF membership we can request this by mutual consent.

OUR MEMBERS CAN NOW SUBMIT THEIR 2024 DATA ON OUR WEBSITE, SEE LINK BELOW: Page Statistics — British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF) For this or any other information relating to the accident statistics collation, please contact: simonbrentnall@BFFF.co.uk

Manual Handling and Slips &Trips were also in the top 3 for Reportable Accidents for Producers and Wholesalers.

Please click on the below to see full report

SEE FULL REPORT HERE

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FIRE SAFETY THE HIDDEN DANGER: FIRE WATER RUN-OFF DURING AN INCIDENT The Unseen Consequences of Firefighting Efforts Introduction At an incident, the highest priority for Fire and Rescue Services will always be the safety of the public and firefighters. Consideration must also be given to the potential damage to the environment caused by the incident itself or Fire and Rescue Service actions, both of which can affect air, land and water.

Fire incidents, whether they occur in urban settings, industrial complexes, or rural areas, command immediate and robust responses. Firefighting efforts are often heroic, combining speed, skill, and an array of equipment to extinguish the flames and save lives. However, an often overlooked consequence of these efforts is fire water run-off, a hazardous byproduct that poses significant environmental and public health risks.

Once the fire is under control contaminated fire water can affect the environment through direct run-off into a body of water by soaking away into the ground, or by entering drainage systems. These systems may transport pollutants and/or heated fire water (which can cause deoxygenation) into rivers, lakes, estuaries and the sea.

Understanding Fire Water Run-Off Fire water run-off refers to the water used to combat fires that subsequently flows off the site, often carrying with it a cocktail of pollutants. This water is typically mixed with substances such as combustion byproducts, chemicals from burned materials, firefighting foam, and debris.

Types of Pollutants The contaminants in fire water run-off can vary widely, including: • Heavy Metals: Elements like lead, mercury, and cadmium can leach into the water from burned structures and materials.

• Organic Compounds: These can include hydrocarbons, solvents, and other complex chemicals that are harmful to both human health and the environment.

• Combustion By-Products: These include toxic chemicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and dioxins.

• Firefighting Foams: Foams often contain perand polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.

During a fire, numerous materials are subjected to extreme heat, breaking down and releasing potentially hazardous substances.

Structures may contain plastics, metals, and other materials that release toxins when burned. Industrial sites may harbour a variety of chemicals used in manufacturing processes, many of which can be highly toxic. When fire water mixes with these substances, the resulting run-off becomes a significant pollutant.

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BFFF INITITIVES Environmental Impact

run-off can occur through direct contact, ingestion of contaminated water or food, and inhalation of volatilized chemicals. Health effects can range from acute symptoms like skin irritation and respiratory issues to chronic conditions such as cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive problems.

The environmental consequences of fire water run-off can be severe and far-reaching. When contaminated water enters natural water bodies, it can lead to the poisoning of aquatic life, disruption of ecosystems, and contamination of drinking water sources. Soil contamination can lead to longterm damage to agriculture and natural habitats, while groundwater contamination poses risks to human health and can be challenging and costly to remediate.

Community Impact Communities affected by fire water run-off face numerous challenges. Contaminated water supplies can undermine public health and necessitate costly and complex clean-up efforts. The loss of property value, agricultural productivity, and biodiversity can have economic and social repercussions.

Public awareness and preparedness are crucial in mitigating these impacts and protecting community health and well-being.

Aquatic Ecosystems Aquatic ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to fire water run-off. Pollutants can directly poison fish and other aquatic organisms, leading to dieoffs and disruptions in the food chain. Sediments can become contaminated, affecting organisms that rely on clean sediment for habitat and food.

The introduction of toxic substances can also lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and create dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive.

Mitigation and Management Effective management of fire water run-off requires a multi-faceted approach involving prevention, containment, and remediation strategies. Fire Services, environmental agencies, and industry stakeholders must collaborate to develop and implement best practices for minimizing run-off contamination.

Soil and Groundwater Soil contamination from fire water run-off can impair plant growth, reduce agricultural productivity, and harm wildlife. Heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants can remain in the soil for extended periods, posing long-term risks. Groundwater contamination is particularly concerning because it can spread pollutants over large areas and provide a pathway for human exposure through drinking water supplies.

Prevention Preventive measures include using less toxic firefighting foams, implementing fire-resistant building materials, and conducting thorough risk assessments at industrial sites. Training firefighters in pollution prevention and equipping them with tools to manage run-off can also reduce environmental impacts.

Containment Containment strategies aim to prevent contaminated water from leaving the site. This can involve the use of barriers, berms, and retention ponds to capture run-off. Temporary storage tanks and water treatment systems can be deployed to treat contaminated water before release.

Remediation Remediation efforts focus on cleaning up contaminated sites and restoring environmental quality. Techniques include soil excavation, phytoremediation, and the use of advanced water treatment technologies. Monitoring and assessment are essential to ensure the effectiveness of these measures and to protect human health and the environment.

Public Health Concerns The human health implications of fire water run-off are significant. Exposure to the various pollutants in 7

BFFF INITITIVES Conclusion Fire water run-off is a hidden danger that accompanies firefighting efforts, posing significant risks to the environment and public health. By understanding the sources and impacts of this contamination, and by implementing effective mitigation and management strategies, we can reduce the harmful consequences of fire incidents. As we continue to advance our knowledge and technologies, it is crucial to prioritise the protection of our natural resources and communities from the insidious effects of fire water run-off. Efforts in fire prevention plays an important role in the overall mitigation of this risk.

Good fire safety practices including education of staff and reducing risk are part of this mitigation. Training staff to respond quickly and effectively to fires in the workplace can also prevent fires from getting out of control. Ensure that risk assessments are up to date and that there is information prepared on any specific risks which could impact firefighting efforts or result in contamination of the environment such as the location and quantities of chemical used in the manufacturing and freezing processes.

For further information, or to arrange a visit from the local Fire and Rescue operational response teams contact your local Service.

“Fire water run-off is a hidden danger that accompanies firefighting efforts” Jonathan Dixson – Essex Fire and Rescue Service – Primary Authority Partnership Jonathan.dixson@essex-fire.gov.uk

8

SAFETY FOCUS

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING LONE WORKERS IN THE FOOD AND DRINK INDUSTRY

How SoloProtect Supports Lone Workers in the Food and Drink Industry At SoloProtect, we understand the challenges businesses face in ensuring the safety of their lone, remote and high-risk workers.

That’s why we provide cutting-edge workplace safety technology to mitigate risk and provide realtime support. Our range of discreet, user-friendly safety devices and mobile app solutions enable organisations to protect their employees wherever they are, ensuring a quick response in an emergency.

Lone, remote, and high-risk workers in the food and drink industry face unique challenges that require dedicated attention. Whether they are operating machinery in a factory, managing stock in a distribution centre, or working shifts on a shop floor, these individuals often find themselves isolated or in high-risk environments without immediate support.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 46,000 manufacturing workers sustained injuries between 2020 and 2023, highlighting the scale of risk in the sector.

Key Benefits of SoloProtect Safety Solutions: • Emergency Response at the Touch of a Button: Our devices offer a discreet panic alarm, connecting workers with a 24/7 Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), ensuring help is always at hand.

Key concerns include: • Accidents and Medical Emergencies: Employees working alone are more vulnerable to injury or sudden illness, as they have no colleagues nearby to assist or call for help.

•

Workplace Violence and Aggression: Lone workers, particularly those in retail settings, may face aggression from customers or the public, increasing their risk of physical or verbal abuse. According to the British Retail Consortium (2024), an estimated 1,300 incidents of abuse occur in retail every day.

•

Man Down Detection: If a worker suffers a fall or sudden incapacitation, the device automatically triggers an alert, enabling swift intervention.

•

Enhanced Communication and GPS Location Tracking: Real-time location sharing allows the ARC to help monitor worker safety and dispatch assistance to the right location when needed.

• •

Fatigue and Mental Wellbeing: Working in isolation can contribute to stress and fatigue, impacting productivity and overall wellbeing.

Compliance and Reporting: Food industry safety compliance is enhanced through detailed safety reporting, ensuring businesses meet their health and safety obligations while protecting employees.

•

Manual Handling and Machinery Risks: Factory and warehouse workers often operate heavy equipment or perform physically demanding tasks that, without proper oversight, can lead to serious injury.

Simon Brentnall, Head of Health and Safety at BFFF, adds: “We see this workplace safety technology becoming more widely used within the food and drink industry to support lone workers and those with particularly high-risk, remote or hybrid roles.”

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BFFF INITITIVES Strengthening Safety Culture in the Food and Drink Industry Implementing robust lone worker protection isn’t just about compliance—it’s about fostering a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and confident in their safety. By integrating SoloProtect’s lone worker safety solutions, food and drink organisations can reduce risk and enhance operational efficiency and workforce engagement.

SoloProtect is proud to be part of this conversation, with Managing Director Steve Hough set to speak on the topic of lone worker safety. With a deeprooted passion for safety and a wealth of industry experience, Steve will explore why lone workers require distinct consideration from other employees and how organisations can implement effective strategies to protect them.

Join us at the

Steve Hough states: “Lone workers play a vital role in the food and drink industry, from factory production to retail environments, yet their safety can be overlooked. We believe no worker should feel vulnerable or unprotected while doing their job and everyone should be able to return home safely at the end of the working day. At SoloProtect, we are committed to providing innovative lone worker safety solutions that give employees confidence and employers peace of mind.”

BFFF HEALTH AND SAFETY CONFERENCE to learn more about safeguarding lone workers and improving workplace safety across the food and drink industry.

We look forward to discussing these critical health and safety concerns at the British Frozen Food Federation Health and Safety Conference on 13th May and sharing how businesses can create safer working environments for their lone workers. If you’d like to learn more before the event, we’d be delighted to connect and explore how SoloProtect can support your organisation.

Learn more at www.soloprotect.com/uk | Contact us

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ENFORCEMENT

Haveli restaurant, based on Wellingborough Road, was using the loft space at the premises to house several of its employees.

DRINKS GIANT FINED AFTER WORKER SUSTAINS SERIOUS BURNS

A Fire Protection Officer inspected the premises and found evidence of that practice, as well as other deficiencies. This included no fire detection system having been installed

An international drinks manufacturer has been fined

and inadequate escape and access routes (a loft hatch

half a million pounds after an employee sustained

and vertical ladder for access and egress) – raising the risk

burns to over 30% of his body.

that occupants would not be warned if a fire started and could end up trapped in the building.

The mechanical engineer had been repairing a defective pump at Diageo’s Glenlossie Distillery

The restaurant was served with a prohibition notice by the

Complex in Elgin on 24 March 2021 when he was

Fire Service in April 2023 which prohibited people from

burned by pot ale. The liquid, which had a temperature

sleeping on the premises. The Service also took the decision

of 104 degrees Celsius, came out suddenly and

that the breaches of fire safety legislation offences were so

unexpectedly from a pipe.

severe that they warranted prosecution.

The worker sustained burns to his arms, hands,

The owner, Suraj Pathak, was charged with breaching the

shoulders, back, chest, lower legs and ankles, before

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and pleaded

spending two weeks in intensive care where he was

guilty to the charge.

placed in an induced coma.

At the sentencing of Mr Pathak, a community order was The HSE’s investigation found Diageo failed to

issued for 200 hours of unpaid work to be completed within

do all that was reasonably practicable to ensure

12 months, and he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge

maintenance operations could be carried out without

of £114 and costs of £750.

a worker being put at risk of injury.

Following the hearing, Scott Richards, Head of Protection Diageo Scotland Limited, of Lochside Place, Edinburgh,

at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our

pleaded guilty to breaching Sections 2(1), 2(2)(a), 2(2)

Fire Protection Officers acted quickly when they received

(c), 33(1)(a) and 33(1)(c) of the Health and Safety at

information that safety was being compromised at these

Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £500,000

premises.

at Inverness Sheriff Court on 16 December 2024.

“Our primary aim is to protect people, and where possible HSE inspector Isabelle Martin said: “This incident

we will work with restaurants and other businesses to

could so easily have been avoided by ensuring that

make sure they meet the standards required to keep both

procedures were in place to ensure that changes

their staff and customers safe.

to work equipment installed in the plant were safe.

However, more importantly Diageo should have had

“On this occasion however, the breaches were so severe

procedures in place to ensure that plant could be

that we were left with no option but to prosecute and send

isolated safely and prevent the release of hazardous

a strong message to the owner that it is unacceptable to

and dangerous substances.

put lives at risk.

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate

“We are happy that the Magistrates’ Court recognised that

to take appropriate enforcement action against those

risk and sentenced the owner accordingly, and it serves as

that fall below the required standards.”

a reminder to all businesses that fire safety is incredibly important and that there will be consequences for not

Northampton Restaurant Owner Fined For Fire Safety Breaches

complying with it.”

£300k Fine For Company Producing Electricity From Food Waste

A Northampton restaurant has been fined for putting lives at risk by breaching fire safety regulations.

A company which produces electricity from food waste by The Protection team at Northamptonshire Fire and

anaerobic digestion, has been fined more than £300,000

Rescue Service acted on intelligence that the Mewar

after an explosion caused two employees to suffer life changing injuries.

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The metal tank the two men were working on was projected

BFFF INITITIVES

Dynamic (UK) Limited, of Colwick Industrial Estate,

high into the air before crashing to the ground nine seconds

Nottingham:

later.

•

Pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

On 20 September 2017, two employees of Bio Dynamic (UK) Pleaded

guilty

at the top of an 11-metre high metal tank containing waste

•

of the

Environmental

slurry. They were not using harnesses. Sparks from the

Wales) Regulations 2016 (EPR), and s.33(1)(c) of

grinder ignited flammable gasses causing the tank to

the

Limited were using a grinder to cut and replace pipework

to

Environmental

breaching

regulation

Permitting

Protection

Act

38(2)

(England 1990

and

(EPA).

explode.

•

Were fined a total of £304,500 and ordered to pay £229,988 in costs.

Tomasz Patek was flung out of the mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) into the air and landed on the ground in the slurry around the tank. He suffered serious injuries

After the hearing, HSE inspector Richenda Dixon said: “It’s

to his back, head and torso and was in hospital for two

remarkable that Robert and Tomasz weren’t killed.

months. His injuries were so severe that he was not able to

“This incident resulted from fundamental and multiple

work for more than two years.

failings by the company to properly manage its health and safety risks.

Tomasz suffers from pre and post-traumatic amnesia and has no specific recollection of the events. In a statement,

“These included failing to ensure that the design,

he reveals the psychological scars from the incident: “After

installation and use of the tanks were safe; failing to carry

the accident, I was unable to recover emotionally. I did not

out risk assessments; failing to put in place a safe system

realise what had happened and was in deep shock. I could

of work; and failing to train and supervise employees.”

not cope with the pain. I could not accept an accident had Senior Environmental Crime Officer Iain Regan said: “This

happened to me.”

was a lengthy and technically complex investigation by Robert Tyrko was thrown into the air and landed back in

the Environment Agency and the HSE during which we

the basket of the MEWP. Following the incident, Robert’s

found that the company’s attitude towards environmental

leg was amputated and he remains wheelchair bound

compliance was largely cosmetic. Although the site had an

as treatment is still ongoing to receive a prosthesis. Also,

environmental permit, the company was not complying with

he sustained a fractured skull and a piece of metal in his

the conditions of the permit or with their own management

elbow that continues to affect his daily life.

system and procedures.

In his statement, Robert explains how the explosion has

“The site had unauthorised gaseous emissions points and

affected his day-to-day life: “This whole situation is having

undertook modifications to their process which were not

a huge impact on my relationship. I can’t help my wife in

risk assessed or notified to the Environment Agency. The

anything like I used to be able to. Magda is both wife and

company did not recognise or understand the impact that

husband because all my responsibilities fell on her; along

these changes had on the safety of the plant and failed to

with the kids.

take action, when warned, which could have prevented the incident. These factors, and a failure to implement permit

“Also my personality is explosive. I lose my patience very

to work procedures, including appropriate risk assessment,

quickly. I attended appointments with a psychologist

created all the necessary conditions on 20 September

because I had nightmares that I was still having this

2017 for the explosion which occurred.

accident.”

“Sites which receive, treat or dispose of waste must be A joint investigation by the HSE and the Environment

permitted to ensure that they minimise the risk to the

Agency found that the company had failed to ensure the

environment or human health. Incidents such as the

health and safety of its employees and others nearby. The

explosion at Bio Dynamic show why it is essential that

company had kept and treated waste in a manner likely

such sites strictly comply with all the conditions of their

to cause pollution to the environment. The explosion was

environmental permit and take their environmental

caused by multiple failures in the company’s management

responsibilities

system and exacerbated by multiple breaches of the

company’s failure to comply with its environmental permit

company’s environmental permit.

could have been fatal. As it is, two employees have been

seriously.

The

consequences

of

the

left with life changing physical and mental injuries which continue to devastate their lives seven years on from this incident.”

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GUIDANCE

equipment are designed, built, operated and maintained to prevent people from being injured or put in danger.

The guidance provided includes coverage of electrical safety legislation, safe installations, portable electrical

ELECTRICAL SAFETY: A

equipment, maintenance and underground cables. See below link:

FREE GUIDE TO MANAGING ELECTRICAL RISKS AT WORK

SEE FULL GUIDANCE HERE

Neurodiversity At Work Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains behave and process information.

Neurodiversity refers to the fact that we all: This British Safety Council guide provides some basic,

•

Think, learn and act differently.

•

Have different strengths and things we find challenging.

introductory advice on some of the key precautions for working with, on or near electricity to reduce the risk of

Some well-known types of neurodivergence are:

death and injury.

•

ADHD

•

autism

If electrical equipment, appliances and installations

•

dyslexia

become faulty or are used in an unsafe way; or work on

•

dyspraxia.

or near electrical equipment and supplies is carried out unsafely, the consequences can be devastating. For

Other types of neurodivergence include:

instance, if workers are exposed to live electrical wiring –

•

for example, because the cable of a hand tool has become

Dyscalculia – a specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers.

damaged, exposing the live wires – they can suffer fatal

•

Tourette’s syndrome.

and serious electric shocks and burns. Also, faulty electrical appliances and installations – such as unsafe wiring in a

The guidance points out that there is disagreement

machine or building – can also cause fires, which may lead

about whether mental health problems are types of

to loss of life, injury and severe damage to equipment and

neurodivergence. However, neurodivergent people can

premises.

often experience mental ill health, it says.

As a result, under UK health and safety law, employers

It’s common for someone to have more than one type of

have a duty to assess the health and safety hazards and

neurodivergence. This is sometimes called ‘co-occurring

risks that electricity poses to their workers and others. This

conditions’.

includes people who could be affected if the employer’s workers create an electrical hazard or risk, such as causing

People can often experience their neurodivergence

an electrical explosion by striking or cutting into live

differently. The strengths and challenges that come with a

underground cables.

condition will not be the same for everyone.

The guidance describes each of the above types of

Employers must also do everything reasonably practicable

neurodivergence. It also addresses the following:

to ensure that all electrical systems, installations and

•

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Whether neurodivergence is a disability.

BFFF INITITIVES • Disability discrimination.

•

Talking about neurodiversity.

Committee stage is a thorough examination of the

•

Using appropriate language around neurodiversity.

individual parts (clauses) of the Bill. Starting from the front

•

Performance, conduct and capability.

of the Bill, members work through the clauses in order,

•

Making sure employees have support.

considering changes (amendments) to the wording or

•

Carrying out a formal procedure.

proposals for new clauses.

•

If an employee thinks they’re being treated unfairly.

•

Making your organisation neuroinclusive.

Committee stage took place over four days:

•

Reviewing your recruitment process.

•

Monday 3 February.

•

Training and supporting managers.

•

Wednesday 5 February.

•

Raising awareness.

•

Monday 10 February.

•

Wednesday 12 February.

See link to guidance:

Proposed Changes

SEE FULL GUIDANCE HERE

Members speaking on the fourth and final day of committee stage (12 February) put forward amendments (PDF) to the Bill on subjects including:

TERRORISM BILL CONCLUDES

•

Human Rights Act 1998 compatibility in regard to protesting.

LORDS COMMITTEE STAGE

•

Tax relief incentives for increased security.

– PROPOSED CAPACITY

•

Responsibilities of local authorities.

FOR QUALIFYING PREMISES

On 10 February, members put forward amendments to the

• Bill on subjects including:

INCLUDING FOOD RETAILERS TO

•

Power

of

ministers

to

alter

public

protection

procedures.

300

•

Waiving of protection procedures for venues if the costs are unreasonable.

•

Developing and implementing training on public protection.

• On 5 February, amendments on subjects including the following were put forward: •

Preventing individuals entering or leaving events.

•

Exemptions to new rules due to unreasonable costs.

•

Security procedures for rural and outdoor events.

•

Deadlines for organisations’ submissions of security plans.

Members speaking on day one of committee stage put forward amendments to the Bill on subjects including: Members of the House of Lords concluded their detailed examination of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, during committee stage last Wednesday (12 February).

One of the amendments could take some retail premises

•

Raising capacity of ‘qualifying premises’ to 300.

•

Capacity of railway stations excluding rail vehicles.

•

Exclusion of small capacity sports grounds.

What’s Next?

out of scope with proposed capacity of qualifying premises

Report stage, a further chance to closely scrutinise

to 300.

elements of the Bill and make changes, is scheduled for Tuesday 4 March.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill aims to improve protective security and preparation across the UK by requiring those responsible for certain public buildings and venues to implement measures to mitigate the risk of physical harm and, in the case of larger premises, to reduce vulnerability to terrorist attacks.

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TRANSPORT HUB are potentially breaking the law and putting themselves, their passengers and other road users at risk.

The use of AI as the first filter aims to ensure privacy for

AI CAMERAS CATCH DRIVERS USING MOBILE PHONES

law-abiding motorists.

The system checked hundreds of thousands of vehicles over an intermittent period between 3 September and 24 October, something which would likely take a human reviewer several months to complete. Images that contain evidence of an offence go through a two-stage human check to confirm that an offence has taken place.

Any offences detected as part of the trial have been passed to the police for them to consider further action. However, if no offence has been committed, the image is immediately deleted by the software and no further action will be taken.

As it stands, no offenders have yet been prosecuted from this trial.

During the deployment, the Heads Up system recorded 812 drivers distracted by using mobile phones behind the

Thousands of drivers were caught by new artificial

wheel, and 2,393 incidents of seat belt non-compliance by

intelligence (AI) cameras using their phone behind the

drivers or passengers.

wheel or not wearing a seat belt. The trial, which took place

The trial, carried out by AECOM and Acusensus on behalf

over a five-week period in Greater Manchester, used a

of Safer Roads Greater Manchester, was held across the

combination of AI and human reviewers to detect offences.

city-region throughout September and October to gather

More than 3,200 people were captured by the ‘Heads Up’

data to understand the scale of the issue to inform future

camera system, which has been developed by Acusensus,

education campaigns and enforcement.

showing drivers using a mobile phone while behind the

Green said: “I hope these images serve as a wake-up call

wheel, sometimes with passengers – including children –

for drivers and passengers on the importance of not driving

next to them.

distracted and seat belt compliance.”

In several cases the cameras also found drivers, adult and

In the past 10 years, almost 10,000 people who live in,

child passengers not being securely fastened in their seats

work in or visit Greater Manchester have been killed or

or not wearing seat belts at all.

seriously injured on the city’s roads. Between 2018 and

The findings, which were released during Brake’s Road

2022, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists accounted

Safety Week and in support of Greater Manchester’s Vision

for nearly two thirds of those killed or seriously injured,

Zero Strategy to eliminate road deaths and life-changing

while drivers and passengers made up 34% of casualties.

injury by 2040, will be used to inform campaigns and to

In 2022, there were 71 traffic fatalities or serious injuries

raise awareness of the consequences of not complying

every month in Greater Manchester.

with the law.

In total, 64 people were killed over the course of the year –

Kate Green, Greater Manchester’s deputy mayor for safer

25 of them pedestrians.

and stronger communities, said: “Distractions such as

Dame Sarah Storey, active travel commissioner for

using mobile phones while driving and not wearing seat

Greater Manchester, said: “The results of the trial show the

belts are key factors in a number of road traffic collisions

horrifying truth behind the number of drivers who still don’t

on our roads which have resulted in people being killed or

consider how their behaviour behind the wheel of their

suffering life-changing injuries.

vehicle can affect themselves, their passengers and other

“This trial was launched so we could better understand

people using the roads.

the scale of this problem in Greater Manchester, and the

“Statistics show you are four times more likely to be involved

images speak for themselves. They show drivers who are

in a collision if you use your phone while driving and twice

needlessly putting themselves and others – including young

as likely to die if you don’t wear a seatbelt.

children – at risk, and sadly we know that being distracted

“Alongside drink and drug driving and speeding, mobile

for just a second, or not wearing a seat belt properly, can

phone usage and not wearing a seat belt make up the fatal

have devastating consequences.”

four, the leading causes of serious injury and death on UK

The ‘Heads Up’ cameras capture images of passing vehicles

roads, which affects the lives around 1,000 people a year

which are initially processed using AI to detect drivers who

in Greater Manchester.

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BFFF INITITIVES

HGVS GIVEN STAR RATINGS Assisted lane keeping on motorways, and collision

Star ratings for safety are being awarded to lorries for the

avoidance for cyclists and pedestrians when a lorry turns

first time, with the best and worst heavy goods vehicles due to be announced.

at a junction, exist but are not widely fitted.

The scores, with five stars as the safest and one representing

Matthew Avery, director of strategy at EuroNCAP, said: “Lorries represent only 3% of vehicles on the road. Yet they

the least safe, have been driving up standards in cars

are involved in 15% of fatal crashes. So this is not just about

since 1997. Sales of cars such as the Rover Metro (one star)

driving up the safety of lorries; it’s about protecting all the

and Fiat Panda (one of only two cars to receive no stars)

other road users as well, whether they are car drivers or

collapsed after they scored very badly.

passengers, cyclists or pedestrians.”

Now EuroNCAP is extending the scheme to heavy goods

He said half of all lorry drivers killed in crashes were not

vehicles, which are often not fitted with safety features

wearing seat belts, and many lorries do not have the seat

that are becoming commonplace on cars. They include

belt warnings that are standard in all new cars.

autonomous emergency braking, which can stop a vehicle even if the driver fails to notice an obstruction ahead.

Six brands of heavy goods vehicles have been tested.

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BFFF INITITIVES CALL TO ACTION FOR BFFF MEMBERS TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON NET ZERO FLEET Last week the Road Haulage Association (RHA) launched an industry wide Net Zero survey asking operators for their views on decarbonising their HGV, coach, and van fleets. The survey is a crucial opportunity for businesses to have a say on key industry challenges, and the insights from it will help us best define what our sectors need on the road to net zero.

These insights will help, better understand how firms are to bring alternatively fuelled vehicles (battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell, or low carbon fuel) into their fleets.

RHA will use this information to inform Government and other stakeholders involved in delivering HGV, coach, and van decarbonisation.

They would be very grateful if our industry members could also help to collate this information. The survey can be completed via the below link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RHA-NetZeroSurvey2025-TradeAssociations It will close at 5pm on Tuesday 15 April.

RHA

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