Seasons Greetings from all at GMHC

20th Dec. 2024: A thought for the workers keeping us safe over Christmas and to the unions who will look after those workers and keep them safe. Have a happy and safe festive season from all at GMHC.

GMHC will be closed from 24th Dec. 2024 and will reopen on 2nd Jan. 2025.

18th Dec. 2024: Law firm, Leigh Day’s Asbestos department has officially launched a website called “Mesothelioma And Me”. It includes films which feature six of their clients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and sets out their thoughts from onset of symptoms, through to diagnosis and receiving compensation for mesothelioma.

GMHC previously reported on Leigh Day Partner – Harminder Bain and her very personal and passionate speech at an event in Parliament last month (see below). Harminder’s father was diagnosed with mesothelioma and her family were desperate for information and to understand this deadly disease. In an attempt to help others Leigh Day has created a series of films showing the impact on those affected. There are also answers to the most common questions by specialists Professor Peter Szlosarek and Dr Riyaz Shah. Through these films, Leigh Day seeks to ensure the voices of mesothelioma victims are heard, offering hope, strength and solidarity to others facing similar challenges on their paths to justice.

Leigh Day have been dealing with asbestos disease legal cases for nearly 30 years. On their website they say that many of their clients have benefited from hundreds of thousands of pounds of life-extending treatment which they would not have received on the NHS.

You can see more on the Leigh Day website page: Mesothelioma And Me: Spotlighting the dangers of asbestos

Leigh Day is also supporting the Asbestos Victims Support Group Forum’s CapeMustPay campaign, which seeks £10 million to be paid to Asthma + Lung UK by Cape, one of the largest manufacturers of asbestos products in the UK, to fund research into finding a cure. Cape Must Pay! – Asbestos Victims Support Group Forum – UK

Covid-19 Inquiry: ‘Every Story Matters‘ – An Opportunity to be Heard

13th Dec. 2024: Last month GMHC joined with our trade union partners in another NW Covid Action Group meeting. The main agenda item was a presentation by guest speakers from the Covid-19 Inquiry. They talked about the Inquiry as well as the next stages namely, Every Story Matters. In the overview of the Covid-19 Inquiry there was particular reference to the structure including the Modules. It was recommended that interested parties should sign up to the Newsletter as there are events and new documents regularly being updated. There was a focus on the current Module 10 which looks at the Impact on Society particularly; key workers, the most vulnerable, the bereaved, mental health and well-being.

Every Story Matters [extract]

The pandemic affected every single person in the UK and, in many cases, continues to have a lasting impact on lives. Every one of our experiences is unique and this is your opportunity to share with the Inquiry the impact it had on you, your life, and the other people around you.

You can share as much or as little information as you feel able. We understand that reliving some of your experiences may be difficult. You can start it now, and come back to finish it when you feel ready. Emotional support is available if you feel this would be helpful.

The speakers told the meeting that Every Story Matters will be individual accounts and the themed reports will be known as ‘records’. It will seek to:

1. Get people to tell us about their experience
2. Effect on individuals and those around them
3. What can be learned from the above

Q&As

• Confidential? The feedback can be anonymous / will be anonymised and questions. 2 – 3 are optional.
• Age Range? This particular module is for over 18s only
• Accessibility? Various formats are available to encourage wider participation email: contact@covid19.public-inquiry.uk
• In Person? There will be a series of events around the country to promote and support this initiative.

Manchester – Every Story Matters Event

Date: Thursday 6th & Friday 7th February 2025

Time: 10:30am – 5:30pm

Location: Manchester Town Hall Extension (Entrance through Manchester central library). St Peter’s Square, Manchester M2 5PD

• Previous Modules? Past modules can be mentioned in feedback
• Support? Self referral service for support and counseling if required
• Attend Hearings? To attend Inquiry hearings, see Reservation system
• Collective feedback? Yes, share both individual and collective stories. Individual stories are the priority but the Inquiry is keen to hear of the effects on the people you know. Noting that there’s 30,000 stories on healthcare and 50,000+ stories in total so far. Many reports are already published including a short video version
• GMHC will be working with the Institute of Employment Rights early next year on a Covid claims awareness conference, details to follow.
• Where to start? https://www.everystorymatters.co.uk

GMHC Accident Book Survey: Recording happening – but with many gaps

11th Dec. 2024: From October to November 2024 GMHC and the North West Safety Reps distributed a survey for safety reps on the use of accident books in workplaces. The survey was aimed at capturing whether workplace accidents books were being consistently used, how they were being used and what was being recorded and the rates of follow up.

The survey was sent to all safety reps in the North West, affiliates and other relevant contacts from the GMHC mailing list. Recipients were asked to share the link with other reps in their workplaces and asked if they would be interested in joining the NW Safety Reps Network.

The survey was open throughout October and closed on the 11th November 2024. There was just over 50 detailed responses. The information from the survey has been collated below and was discussed at the meeting in late November. Although the numbers of respondents were small it was only aimed at union safety reps in the North West on the GMHC mailing list but it gives us a fair sample of current practices.

Overview of survey responses
The main respondents were from the following sectors; health/ NHS, education, transport/ logistics, communications, local authorities and retail. Safety reps from the CWU, UNITE and UNISON were the largest responders with the GMB, NASUWT, USDAW, UCU, RMT, PCS, FBU, TSSA and societies including Radiographers and Physiotherapists reps also making contributions.

Accidents recorded?
88% had some form of recording workplace accidents/ incidents. With two-thirds of them using an electronic recording system e.g. online/ apps.

Worker awareness?
86% recorded having a system of reporting that most or all workers were aware of,
10% were unsure and
4% didn’t have a system in place.

Recording of near misses?
57% indicated these were always or frequently recorded while
40% indicated that they were rarely or never recorded. 3% unknown

Work related stress incidents reported?
68% were rarely or never recorded
17% were unsure
15% were always or frequently recorded

Serious incident/ near miss – reported immediately to the safety rep to allow an investigation?
59% were rarely or never reported to a rep
35% were frequently or always reported to a rep
6% did not know

Reporting back to workers?
Most workers received reports or updates via workplace meetings or safety committees. With Online or noticeboards and unions the next most common way to receive updates.

Follow up?
On the question ‘How are accidents usually followed up?’ There was a roughly equal mixture of different practices in place ranging from, ‘not known’, ‘they’re not’ and ‘reps are excluded’ to ‘good’, ‘engaging’ and ‘some form of process’.

Reporting culture?
With the question ‘How do you feel in general about accident reporting at your workplace?’
62% had a negative or could be improved view of their current reporting system with the remaining percentages indicating more favourable responses.

Employers with more than 10 employees must keep an accident book under the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1979, that record will be enough to record most minor accidents. All serious workplace accidents should be reported under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) and the accident book. This includes psychological, physical and near-miss incidents. It’s vital to have a record of any injuries, sharing this information and follow up. Many workers and employers find this a valuable resource and often find they have to call on the details further down the line.

It was agreed at the meeting GMHC would share the findings and develop a leaflet and online materials to raise awareness about the rights relating accident books/ accident recording.

More on accident books here

‘Pillars’, ‘milestones’ and ‘pledges’ – here’s something real and worth fighting for…

10th Dec. 2024: The new Greener Jobs Alliance newsletter is out now (no. 67) with Eight Points to prepare yourself in the face of climate-change denial. Cop(out) 29? You decide, plus EVs, cheaper energy alternatives, dirty defence, free clean air workshops and the regular stats page – essential for campaigning.

They’ll Be Back: The ongoing battle between worker safety and technology

7th Dec. 2024: Many workers already know that technology, ego, greed or bad decision-making by senior management can often come before worker safety. Recently in Australia half of the well-known supermarket duopoly, Woolworths (yes it still exists there, but different) has seen major industrial unrest and damaging headlines. The reason for the upset is that the $40bn retail empire appears not only to put workers safety at risk but have for years upset consumers leading to questions about business practices and pricing. Both have made headlines and been debated in parliament particularly throughout this year.

Worker safety should be the primary concern of any business so when Woolies decided to introduce a new ‘framework system’ for warehouse workers, it was a step too far. In late November members of the United Workers Union (UWU) started a series of rolling strikes which brought massive disruption to the network and empty shelves in most states and territories. The framework system was pushing workers to exhaustion and high levels of stress because their movements were being calculated by the second and dictated by algorithms in an attempt to move towards 100% efficiency. This according to reports was resulting in unrealistic targets, bullying, stress, cutting corners and injuries. Constant monitoring, the threat of disciplinary action and cycles of ‘retraining’ or ‘coaching’ were making workers ‘feel like robots’ said Sally McManus National Secretary of the Australian Council of Trade Unions. The dispute which appears to be settled this week was also about pay but the de-humanisation of workers grabbed the headlines worldwide and saw Woolies take a $50m hit to its balance sheets.

In the settlement this week there looks to be an improved pay offer along with added clauses to the enterprise agreement on the efficiency standards.  These include terms like, workers will not be disciplined for failing to reach 100% of their efficiency targets and recognition that not all workers work the same way. Assuming it all goes through as agreed, it was a plucky battle from workers against a well-resourced retail machine. Woolies will have also eyed the looming lucrative Christmas market with the prospect of empty shelves along with the ongoing costly reputational damage. For Wollies workers and workers around the world, it seems that the sci-fi-sounding robot stories are becoming more common (AI, automation, tech – future risk) as the lines become more blurred between human endeavour and technology.

HSE to carry out asbestos inspections in Local Authorities

5th Dec. 2024: Yesterday the HSE announced they are to carry out a campaign of inspecting local authorities to ensure they are managing their asbestos risk properly (see press release). They do not name the authorities they are to visit but say they will visit “dozens”. Given what is known about the asbestos management failings at the London Borough of Waltham Forest which were exposed during a long local union campaign it is suspected that HSE should uncover more bad practice but their methodology is paperwork inspection rather than a deep dive into the issue.

Save lives get involved: It is vital union health and safety reps get involved with this process early in the HSE’s campaign and the path to that is in the rights they have in the Safety Representatives & Safety Committee Regulations. The HSE press release states this will be an inspection of paperwork at the authority, it doesn’t mention inspecting the actual workplaces. It is therefore vital safety reps use their legal rights to:

• Write to the HSE, Leader of The Council, Head of HR, Head of Health & Safety asking to be informed if the authority is to be inspected by HSE, when and where that will occur, for the union safety reps to be involved at every stage (including planning)
• You should request that you are given access to, and time to inspect, any relevant paperwork, including risk assessments required by law, all in good time before HSE inspect.
• Get the issue on the agenda of your employer’s safety committee.
• Ask your employer for detail of any completed compensation cases or those still ongoing on asbestos issues such as compensation for mesothelioma. Don’t be fobbed off by false GDPR refusal, insist they give you detail that does not breach any right of individuals concerned and use FoI requests if necessary.
• Inspect the workplace and talk to your members about any asbestos issues, failings or concerns.
• All should be done in a timely manner

If you are not as confident on the issue as you’d like to be get help from your union, the Hazards Campaign, asbestos campaigns, the TUC and more. Even if HSE do not plan to inspect your employer, there is nothing to stop you from taking up the above steps – the law gives you these as a right. If you find anything wrong raise it with your employer and the HSE. You may even wish to contact local media who may just have an interest in all this. Thank you to Mick Holder for flagging this us with the Hazards Movement.

Looking after workers is not only right but it benefits everyone, here’s why…

4th Dec 2024: ‘Since the 1980s, the UK has, on average, weaker labour laws than other OECD countries, and stronger shareholder protection laws. During this period, both investment and productivity in the UK have fallen below the OECD norm.’ Summarising the issues and pressing the government on improving worker rights and safety, the IER makes a compelling case that’s a win win for for everyone. Read the IER submission to Dept. Business & Trade economics team on ‘Making Work Pay’ proposals.

Ignoring the issues is the most expensive option for workers, taxpayers & employers.

TUCAN flies for cleaner air in 2025

28 Nov. 2024: It’s been a busy year for the Trade Union Clean Air Network (TUCAN). They have published a comprehensive set of resources for union reps and campaigners to use in their work with employers, local authorities and politicians.

Join the flock from December 2024 with free courses

In 2025 TUCAN has even more ambitious plans to bring together union activists, community campaigners, local and regional authorities in a series of events in different regions and countries in the UK. All this work is done unpaid by volunteers in the Hazards movement and Greener Jobs Alliance. Action on occupational air pollution is vital if we are to improve standards both at work and in our communities. If you want to get more involved see the free online training programme and sign up for the online course on 10th Dec. 2024 at 6pm (GMT).

Nest down and catch up with all the free downloads

New free autumn 2024 TUCAN Newsletter (issue 6)

New November 2024 Greener Jobs Alliance Newsletter (issue 66)

New Hazards Magazine autumn 2024 (issue 167)

Free downloadable Hazards Calendar 2025

Getting Away with Murder: Mick Holder Tells it Like it is

26 Nov. 2024: Last month safety activist, Mick Holder reminded workers about our campaign for strengthening the laws around deaths at work. The demand is that bosses found guilty of negligence in the case of a worker death should automatically face a prison sentence.

The TUC and union-backed initiative, driven by the Hazards Campaign and the now defunct Centre for Corporate Accountability, had argued that a law should see negligent bosses jailed. They were getting away with murder, when they should be imprisoned.

This was even more of a problem when it came to larger companies and their directors. In December 1990, John Rimington, who served as director general of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) from 1984 to 1995, bemoaned the failure of the courts to jail these bosses for safety crimes. “Courts have difficulty connecting top executives to the blood on the shopfloor,” he said. Read the full article highlighting the failures and challenges from Mick here.

Time for a reset and doing what’s right, the change of government provides an opportunity to push again for negligent directors to be held accountable. Keeping the pressure on our elected representatives is essential, write to your MP and help us to save lives at work.

Making the Invisible, Visible with National Education Union Safety Reps

21 Nov. 2024: GMHC were warmly welcomed at the National Education Union’s Health, Safety & Environment Officers Briefing outside Leicester today. The 3-day event organised by Sarah Lyons (NEU Lead Officer Health, Safety & Environment) and her team saw a couple of hundred safety reps along with union officials share and discuss a vast range of topical information pertinent to the teaching profession. Workshops included, the NEU’s new Ofsted Risk Assessment, NEU’s contributions to the Covid-19 Inquiry, a safer teaching environment – stress, violence, asbestos in schools, activism on health and safety, climate change, equality, supporting SEND and Early Years students as well as mental health and suicide awareness. Embedded throughout the sessions were, sharing resources, understanding official guidance, legislation and sharing good practice. Presentations included the NEU’s Disability Toolkit, Pregnancy at Work, child protection and various climate change topics. There was a strong emphasis throughout the event on the school environment and how to make it safer for learners and staff. The Joint Union Heatwave Protocol along with the union Guide to Good Ventilation in Schools complimented the plenary session from the GMHC on day 2.

The GMHC presentation looked at what constitutes polluted air and why it matters both inside and outside of the classroom. Following a demonstration of C02 monitoring there was an overview of the law, standards that we should expect and how to enforce by making the invisible, visible. GMHC flagged up the valuable work of the Trade Union Clean Air Network (TUCAN) and relevant articles in the Hazards Magazine. There was an opportunity for reps to share their experiences with feedback including; linking air quality with the curriculum and climate change initiatives. Some reps explored how they could use the technology of air filtration as a teaching aid, comments were made on air quality in relation to asbestos in buildings and the use of MDF in classroom workshops. It was also noted at the session that air filtration competed with other limited school resources, winter weather, class sizes and the challenging economic environment. There was some discussion about air quality and educational attainment, physical and mental health as well as absenteeism due to viruses and other biological contaminants. The plenary session was well received but due to the time constraints GMHC provided links to further reading, respected studies and research on the air quality.

At the end of the session there was time for a photo opportunity where Janet Newsham from GMHC presented, in person an award to NEU reps for a very special campaign. The award borne from a personal and avoidable tragedy recognised the hard work behind the campaign on the Ofsted Risk Assessment.

New Hazards Magazine out now – essential for anyone serious about workplace safety

20 Nov. 2024: The highly acclaimed and influential Hazards Magazine autumn edition is out now. A must, not only for safety reps and activists but all working people and responsible employers. Edition 167 puts a spotlight on; the UK silica crisis, Starmer and the so called ‘red tape’, sexual harassment at work, tips for organising, what’s happening Down Under and much more.

Various hard copy subscriptions available for individuals and organisations or become a Friend of Hazards Magazine by making a donation

Bursting to Go: A new report on workers’ experience of toilet access and facilities

19 Nov. 2024: Today is World Toilet Day highlighting that, access to toilet facilities should be a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of where they live or where they work. Toilets should be of adequate capacity, be of easy access, and suitable for all. Unbelievably that is not always the case for many workers around the UK even today. The evidence can be seen in a new TUC report which is based on a survey of trade union members around the country.

Access to toilets is a fundamental workplace need. When workers lack adequate access, they may delay using the restroom, leading to serious physical health issues over time. It also causes stress and distraction, a serious risk in safety-critical roles where workers must be able to concentrate on the job at hand. Regular restroom breaks are also crucial for staying hydrated and maintaining bodily health, particularly in physically demanding jobs. Teachers, drivers, postal workers, firefighters and many others report urinary tract infections, kidney strain, digestive issues and other health complications as a result of having to ‘hold it in’. There is an additional concern for pregnant, mature, menopausal or disabled workers. Read the full TUC report here and the equally shocking findings from the Train Drivers Union – ASLEF here.

Petition to introduce new air quality and PPE rules for health and social care settings

18th Nov. 2024: Learning from the Covid-19 pandemic it is now time for the UK Government to set new rules on air quality and infection control in health and social care settings. Preparing now will prevent and control airborne infections through new ventilation and filtration requirements. New PPE standards and improved staffing rules combined with robust monitoring and inspections towards compliance will help protect health workers.

Covid and other infectious diseases are spread by airborne aerosols. There are several ways to prevent them by improving air quality and using well-fitting respiratory masks. Some research has found that reinfection can increase the risk of long-term serious organ damage and care workers have amongst the highest prevalence of long Covid. There are many tools to protect people in health and social care including, improving ventilation/air filtration, reintroducing PPE masks and Covid testing, and supporting ill staff to stay home.

Support our carers and communities by sharing and signing the petition .

Hazards at TUC Midlands with Safety Reps and a visit from the HSE

14th Nov. 2024: GMHC headed down to Birmingham this week to attend the Safety Reps Connect event at the TUC on Summer Lane. Dozens of safety reps gathered from 17 unions to talk about safety and hear presentations on the HSE’s (Health and Safety Executive) ten year strategy – Protecting People and Places. Other talks included, Health and Safety at Work Act – Now and into the Future, Neurodiversity at Work and Workplace Stress. It was also an opportunity to speak to union officials, the GMHC, Janine Booth – author and equality campaigner and Thompsons solicitors. The Hazards stall had a range of resources for reps to take away, the most popular being, climate action, air quality, hazardous materials, the body map – which shows work-related diseases, the Training Safe app and the Hazards Magazine.

HSE Policy Lead, Kayleigh Roberts presented an overview of the HSE’s 10-year strategic objectives in what was seen as a rare but welcome appearance by an HSE representative. The objectives included, a focus on stress, mental health building trust, safe innovation towards ‘net zero’, continuing a strong safety culture and ensuring HSE is a good place to work. It was acknowledged that lung disease and mental ill health was unacceptably high though it is believed that this could be helped through the Working Minds campaign, a new NEBOSH qualification on stress and better support for disabled workers.

The main focus of the talk was on what is termed, ‘Health Surveillance’ for regulated hazards. In essence this is a series of health checks to identify work-related ill health even after control measures had been put in place. The HSE believes this will help with early detection, fill any gaps in control measures and provide an opportunity for workers to discuss issues. Examples of Regulations that would require health surveillance include; hazardous substances, hand-arm vibration and noise at work. HSE appointed health professionals would cover, substances that are hazardous to health, asbestos, lead and ionising radiation. The HSE expects the programme to include, OHS professionals with an understanding of the workplace, the risks involved and to adhere to additional training where required. The HSE believes there is currently a disconnect between employers, individuals, testing, providers, knowledge, results and timely follow up. Testing in itself if fraught with issues such as quality of tests, standards, lack of interpretive data over a series of tests and the questions over the expertise involved. The HSE sees the surveillance initiative as something that would support early identification of work-related ill health by professionals who know this field as well as complimenting control systems. It wasn’t clear how the initiative would be resourced or enforced and how employers would engage with the proposals considering the funding and enforcement challenges facing the HSE. The decade-long cuts to the HSE has been frequently highlighted by the GMHC, the TUC, Thompsons and today by the Reps Connect organisers. This particular topic was deemed to be ‘…a question for the politicians and department heads’.

On supporting disabled workers there was a range of encouraging phrases banded about to promote a safer and inclusive approach to ill or disabled workers. Much of it was about removing barriers, workplace adjustments, improving communications, language and understanding in the workplace together with explaining the legal requirements for employers. Click the following link to get a better overview of the HSE’s Best Practice Guide.

Poverty wages and poor conditions for staff at multi million pound GAIL’s bakery chain

Nov 2024: “Despite the cost of that frappuccino and almond croissant, 88% of GAIL’s workers don’t have access to sick pay & often feel stressed at work, 83% say they don’t get paid breaks, & 58% are subject to changing schedules with one week’s notice or less.”

Founded in 1990, with its first bakery opening on Hampstead High St in 2005. There are now 131 stores open. Primarily in London and the South, but now with stores in Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool. GAIL’s has announced expectations that it might open between 300-500 stores across the country It employs 2742 employees as of December 2023. It’s rapid expansion over the last few years a result of its sale to Bain Capital Credit, massive global asset firm. £135.3 million in turnover, operating profit of £15.9 million in 2023. A higher-end bakery and cafe hiding poor conditions.

Despite the challenges GAIL’s workers are pushing back and like at McDonalds, Starbucks and Amazon, staff have had enough and are organising to get a better deal. Show your support by contacting GAIL’s, leave a review or follow them on social media. Fair pay and conditions is better for worker health, the economy and makes good business sense.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getorganisednow

X: https://twitter.com/organise_now

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/organise_now/

Still breathing in toxic air? Time for a bit of DIY

12th Nov. 2024: As we spend more time indoors, it’s useful to to consider the air quality at home, work and at school. This time of the year sees spikes in viruses, Covid-19, flu and other airborne contaminants so it’s a useful reminder to look at the free resources available from the Hazards Centre.

Cleaning the Air at Work gives you a heap of links, information of safe levels and even a DIY air filtration system

How to Build a UK DIY Air Cleaning Device

Everything you need to know about what’s in the air and more

Trade Union Clean Air Network – Let’s Talk About Air Pollution

Hazards at UNISON North-West (Eastern) Organisers Away Day

7^th Nov. 2024: GMHC attended the UNISON North-West (Eastern) organisers away day at the amazing Working Class Movement Library in Salford. The meeting was well attended with highly experienced organisers and presided over by Regional Manager, Vicky Knight. The organisers discussed the plans, issues, challenges and successes of their service groups, with worker safety never far from the surface. Mental health, leave arrangements, health and safety rep (HSR) training, menopause, customer aggression, Covid-19, building materials were areas that touched on regular organising work.

The GMHC session included an overview of the Hazards Movement, the basics of health and safety organising, the value of trained HSRs and the Hazards Campaign Manifesto – which was distributed prior to the meeting. There was also some time given to a brief look at the potential opportunities for organising around The Employment Rights Bill 2024-25 tabled in Parliament on 10^th October 2024. The bill seeks to improve the wider IR picture for workers but there’s some scope to organise around potential safety and equality components of the bill. Job insecurity causes immense stress for workers and their families, shifting the dial on zero hours contracts, fire and rehire, redundancy and unfair dismissal would go a long way in reducing stress and excessive hours. Improved leave conditions including for; menopause, bereavement and parental leave would support a better work-life balance, improve health, family time and the workplace culture. Preventing sexual harassment, including by third parties at work has already moved along in this parliament by expanding areas of the Equality Act. The potential for employers to protect workers from harassment through preventive measures, reporting and improving policies would be a welcome start. Stress, workloads, harassment and mental health are very much areas that fall under workplace health and safety. Unions like UNISON in the NW are already offering training and development to their staff and reps on safer working and equality. The Employment Rights Bill may still have some time to go with consultation, committee stages, amendments, multiple readings in both chambers but after 14 years of eroded rights, this offers some hope for workers.

November means Young Workers Month

6th Nov. 2024: There’s no shortage of events and activities during the TUC’s Young Workers Month. All too often younger workers have the lower pay, job insecurity and weaker conditions than the wider workforce. Whether they are new to the workforce, trainees, volunteers, apprentices, interns they can also be at greater risk of workplace injuries. When it comes to safety, young workers have the same protections as all workers – no excuses, no cutting corners and no risk to health. The GMHC has put together some information, events and resources from around the country to support young workers this month and into a safer future.

Young Workers: Resources and Events November 2024

TUC: Young worker events around the country click here

GMHC: Resources for young workers

PCS: Young Members Page

USDAW: A better deal for young workers

LRD: Young Worker Trends

UNISON: Young Workers Charter

CWU: Young Workers Under 30

Prospect: Young Workers Network

GMB: Young Workers in action

RMT: Young Workers Info and Events

HSE: Young People’s Health and Safety – No Excuses

All-Party Parliamentary recognition of HASWA at 50

4^th Nov. 2024: GM Hazards attended the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Occupational Safety and Health. The Parliamentary reception adjacent to the House of Commons marked the 50^th anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Sponsored by Leigh Day solicitors and the TUC the event had guest speakers including Sir Stephen Timms Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, Ian Lavery MP amongst many other speakers and guests from unions, the House of Lords, safety and asbestos groups, medical professionals, charities and legal representatives. The speakers acknowledged the need for a Health and Safety at Work Act and the significance it has had to workers lives over the last 50 years. Shelly Asquith Head of Safety at the TUC noted the number of fatal injuries at work had fallen by 80% since 1974 but 138 this year is still way too high. The final speaker of the evening was an inspiring speech from Harminder Bains, joint head of the asbestos and mesothelioma department at Leigh Day. Harminder reminded the assembled crowd that 5,000 people a year are still dying from asbestos-related cancers and that real action, funding and research was desperately needed – more so than words and acknowledgements. With personal experience of mesothelioma in her family she stressed the urgent need families around the country had especially in managing asbestos-related diseases with little or no support. Comparing the significant resources going into the lower numbers involved in road traffic accidents, asbestos-related diseases had a long way to catch up. Better prevention and funding, particularly through education, research and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reversing years of decline is badly needed in the UK. Harminder struck a chord with attendees, most who had seen or supported workers and colleagues affected by toxic dust over many years. The remainder of the event was an opportunity to network and to discuss the opportunities that may arise from the change in government this year and their commitment to re-calibrate the industrial relations landscape in the UK.

The Hazards Campaign has committed to effective and long-lasting changes to worker safety in their Manifesto. Adopting the approach outlined in the Manifesto would see a sharp decline in worker illnesses, injury and fatalities. It would prioritise strong accountability and enforcement through an effective and resourced regulator. Restoring the HSE’s Mission Statement and Priorities. To read and share the Hazards Manifesto click here.

Unions publish new report and recommendations on the health impact of night-working

1st Nov 2024: If you have ever worked long shifts or night-shifts you’ll know the impact it has on your body clock. Night-time workers are often forgotten with a strong focus on the daytime economy. Night-work can impact your mental and physical health significantly from diet, less exercise, isolation, lack of sunlight, long hours, lack of support, social life and relationship difficulties. The Greater Manchester Hazards Centre supports the findings from unions to improve the health and safety of night-time workers. The new report, Health and Safety Impacts of Night Working was recently published by the TUC and five major UK unions. The full report can be found here but in its conclusion it comes up with 8 recommendations to help protect night-time and shift workers. Click on the document below for the 8 recommendations.

UCL hosts Global Launch of 2024 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change

30 Oct. 2024: GMHC attended the Global Launch of the 2024 report of the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change. This virtual launch of the 2024 Report was funded by the Wellcome Trust and developed in close collaboration with the World Health Organization, the report represents the work of 122 leading experts from 57 academic institutions and UN agencies globally. Published ahead of the 29th UN Conference of the Parties (COP) in Baku, it provides the most up-to-date assessment of the links between health and climate change.

Moderated by BBC journalist Dr Smitha Mundasad with keynote speeches from leading voices on climate and health including Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization; Rt Hon Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Patron of the Helen Clark Foundation, and member of The Elders; Dr Richard Horton, Editor-in-Chief of The Lancet. The launch was followed by a panel discussion with leading academics and representatives in climate change and human health.

GMHC noted from the report that workers around the world are increasingly being affected by the impact of climate change. Food quality and water supplies, extreme and frequent adverse weather events, heat stress, disease, drought and pollution to name a few. Although the report shows UK workers are less affected than more southern and eastern countries, through global supply chains the UK is heavily reliant on imported food and goods from countries that are badly affected. Outdoor workers in particular are at great risk especially in mining, forestry and agriculture. These industries not only have a huge environmental impact but the workers, who are often migrant workers are mentally and physically affected by these more frequent extreme conditions. The highly exposed industries supply us with rare earth metals for our tech and our demand for out-of-season and all-year-round food supplies. GMHC has been campaigning on heat stress, clean air, safer working practices, stronger regulations, enforcement and corporate accountability for some time now. GMHC welcomes new evidence that will lead to better policy making and preventative safety measures at a local and international level.

For the extract relating to workers, ‘change in labour supply‘ and the report conclusion, courtesy of The Lancet click here

For the full report, courtesy of The Lancet click here

Long-awaited changes to the law on sexual harassment at work

26 Oct 2024: Under UK equality legislation new protections from sexual harassment came into force on 26/10/24. Employers now have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and create a safe working environment. See the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) preventative guidance for employers.

Hazards Connects with the Salford Resource Centre

18 Oct. 2024: The Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre (SUCRC) held a community open event on 18^th October 2024 as a way to engage local residents and workers in the area. GMHC went along with some resources for workers and chatted to employment law advisors, John Howard and Abdul-karim Al-Malahi about their work as well as the campaigning work of the GMHC.

The SUCRC was established in 1980, since then they have continually campaigned, supported, advised and represented unemployed and employed people across the region. The SUCRC offers a range of support services for their community, including for older people, people with disabilities, unemployed people and workers who are facing difficulties.

Despite immense funding challenges they have a free employment law service which provides information and guidance for locals who are either in or out of work. Some of the initial advice on employment matters include; unfair or constructive dismissal, unlawful deductions, redundancy discrimination, breach of contract, disciplinary issues and grievances.

For guidance on employment matters contact the centre for initial advice on 0161 789 999 or email secretary_stuc@hotmail.co.uk Workers can also contact their trade union, to find out which union is most relevant to your work – see the Trade Union Congress (TUC) guide for details. For guidance on work safety matters speak to your workplace safety rep and see the GMHC website.

Modern Slavery and Exploitation in Greater Manchester

18 Oct 2024: GMHC attended the Tackling Modern Slavery and Exploitation in Greater Manchester: An introduction with local experts event on the 18th of October 2024. The event was part of the Anti-Slavery Week of events and was organised by the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor’s office.

The focus of the event was to raise awareness about modern slavery and ask businesses, organisations and individuals in Manchester to recognise signs of exploitation. The panel discussion also highlighted what the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s approach is towards addressing this complex organised crime. Read more here.

Hazards at the TUC Unionreps Connect event

15th October 2024: The Unionreps Connect event took place at the TUC in London on the 15^th October. Hundreds of union reps from multiple unions descended on Congress House for a full day of employment related talks, workshops, stalls and networking.

The Greater Manchester Hazards Centre (GMHC) set up shop at the event where the two co-ordinators (Janet and William) spoke to and advised dozens of reps including safety reps and workplace activists on a variety of safety issues. The topics raised by reps were consistent with a number of areas in the Hazards Manifesto including; air quality, better recognition and understanding of mental health issues, long Covid, resources and research to support reps on safety matters, enforceable workplace safety systems, campaigns for a more active and independent regulatory body, the value of the annual Hazards conferences, toxic substances, the Hazards Magazine, heat stress and better accountability over building maintenance.

At the GMHC stall, numerous Hazards guides and the CO₂ monitors stimulated conversations about how to organise workers on safety matters. Reps were keen to know more about strategies to obtain genuine consultation with management over workplace changes and safety issues as well as evidence-based approaches to enforcement. The working environment, inadequate accident/ incident reporting (including mental health), workloads, stress and air quality in the workplace were popular discussion topics. There was demonstrations and guidance from GMHC on measuring CO₂ as a proxy for air quality, resources from the Trade Union Clean Air Network (TUCAN) and even a guide on how to build your own air filtration system. Many reps were concerned that their workplaces were not getting adequate natural or mechanical filtration potentially impacting health and general well-being. The Act Now on Mental Health leaflets, Hazards Magazine and TUCAN leaflets/guides were pretty much all snapped up as reps added them to their conference bags.

There were speeches from TUC General Secretary, Paul Nowak and Justin Madders MP and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets).

With a choice of eight workshops reps appeared energised by the insights, experiences and information shared out. The Supporting Neurodivergent Members workshop provided a good understanding of what neurodiversity means and how it affects individuals. It looked at what reasonable adjustments could be made in the workplace along with follow up links to useful resources. The Gender and Health and Safety workshop discussed the often overlooked or ignored risks to women’s health and safety, from badly fitting PPE to mental health issues affecting both men and women including menopause and andropause. The Social Media Challenges in the Workplace workshop highlighted the obligations many workers may unwittingly have both in and out of the workplace. This included being unaware of company policies, grey areas, views expressed, pictures and sharing posted content. The rise in misinformation and right-wing propganda on social media was a common concern at the workshop. The Big Employment Law workshop was also well attended and discussed The Employment Rights Bill with looking at ways how to organise and use this to improve rights and conditions.

Finally, earlier in the day Emma Game from Thompson Solicitors provided a valuable guide to amendments to employment legislation based case law and arbitration or court rulings. Towards the end of the event reps had a chance to share how they could take lessons from the talks and the stalls back to the workplace for organising and supporting members along with engaging potential members.

World Mental Health Day 10 October 2024

World Mental Health Day 10 October 2024: Unhealthy conditions including exclusion, discrimination, and exposure to risks like harassment, high workloads and poor working conditions can pose significant risks to workers. This can adversely affect mental health, overall quality of life and consequently participation or productivity at work.

Today is a good reminder that workers can organise with their trade union and ensure employers are meeting their responsibilities. There are three main areas where trade unions should take direct action:

1. A strategy for preventing work related stress and mental ill health
2. Supporting individuals at work with mental ill health
3. Providing a positive mental health work environment

For those not yet in a union, you can still ‘Act Now’ by sharing and downloading our free Act Now on Mental Health leaflet

Hazards and the Troublemakers

5th October 2024: The Hazards Centre had two stalls at this years annual Troublemakers At Work Conference held in Manchester. The event was attended by a range of voluntary and community organisations, trade unions, campaign groups and political figures. Of the visitors to the Hazards stall many were interested in how to organise and enforce their rights to protect workers and volunteers. Workloads and stress came up regularly but there was also interest in how climate change and the diminishing role of the HSE were affecting safer working. The Hazards Magazine was a popular resource as was the easy-to-use guide from the Hazards Centre on organising for safer workplaces.

The main events and workshops included; Fighting Back Under Labour, Precarious and Migrant Workers Organising, Confronting Far Right Ideas in the Workplace and Anti-Union Laws, Lessons from the Strike Waves amongst many others. To see more on this event held on 5th October 2024 and the campaign work of Troublemakers At Work click here.

Calling Safety Reps – How does your workplace record accidents?

October 2024: The GMHC is keen to know if and how you record accidents/ incidents at your workplace. Our short survey is anonymous and will help to inform us about any areas of accident reporting that we should campaign on. Use the link below to start the survey. If you are interested in becoming a health and safety rep (HSR) contact your union. To find out which union covers your workplace please click here.

Start the Survey Here

If you are in the North West of England you can leave your email address if you’d like to join our North West Safety Reps Network. Thank You.