Over the last 20 years there have been quite a few changes in the health and safety regulations in the UK. Before 1974 there were no real regulations and workers were required to use their own common sense to get through injury free. Recently regulations have been tightened and employers have much more of a responsibility to ensure workers and visitors are safe and secure when in their premises.
The health and safety at work act was introduced in 1974 and was the first real official document outlining requirements of employers and employees at work. Of course since 1974 though, industries have changed with new facilities, equipment and staff. The changes in industries have required changes in the regulations as new changes bring new risks to the workplace.
The management of health and safety at work regulations were released in 1999 to reduce or remove the chance of risk by stating that employers have to carry out risk assessments. The regulation acts as a guideline for employers on how to make changes to make the workplace a safer place for employees to be and also on how to carry out a risk assessment in their specific workplace.
Another area in the UK which has had health and safety regulations tightened is schools. All state run schools as well as some special and private schools will have to follow a set of guidelines on standards now too. In 1999 the regulation began to ensure schools met the conditions for lighting, ventilation, temperature and toilet conditions. With children not as safety conscious and aware as adults it is important that at all times their learning conditions are safe and secure for them.
Asbestos didn’t become such a well-known risk until recently but in 2006 the control of asbestos at work regulations were released to help protect employees. Until they are touched the asbestos fibres are not harmful to employees as they are hidden away usually. When they are disturbed due to maintenance work being carried out, these regulations ensure the correct procedures are followed.
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