If you have found red tape in your particular industry niche has limited your options in the past where edge protection is concerned, the year ahead could see those options opened up in a whole new way.
The government’s Red Tape Challenge has, in recent years, allowed businesses to complain directly to the government about restrictions and legislation that they feel are hampering their ability to carry out their work effectively.
Now, part of that challenge is to see red tape slashed, with new guidance relating to work carried out at height to be issued by the Health & Safety Executive.
IOSH have welcomed the news, which could make it easier for businesses of all types to install edge protection, safety ladders and other protection for employees in a range of disciplines.
Jane White, research and information services manager at IOSH, said: “When looking at working from height, there is a huge range and variety of tasks being carried out every day, from engineers scaling wind turbines, to builders’ apprentices using ladders in domestic settings.”
She adds that one of the priorities is to raise awareness among young people and those entering work for the first time, to help move health and safety “into a new era”.