Innovation may once have been the product of good luck plus “one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration”. Now it is a strategic element of economic successes that must deliver continuously. Which means that innovation itself is undergoing a make-over, reports Jon Herbert. Forget absent-minded professors — although deeply pensive academics do qualify. Innovation that   Read More …

However politicians play their cards in the weeks ahead, preparations are being made across UK industry and the supporting regulatory sector for the possibility of an abrupt “hard” Brexit departure from the EU. This includes REACH, writes Jon Herbert. REACH is the European Regulation 1907/2006 covering chemicals and their safe use. At present it applies   Read More …

It’s always a good time to look at the risks of dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres, including the critical concentrations of airborne dust from many sources, since without systematic care and good practice these risks will be present at all times, writes Jon Herbert. There are no half-measures with workplace fires and explosions. Ensuring safety   Read More …

Skills shortages, falling birth rates, greater life expectancy, low unemployment levels and squeezed public finances are increasing job opportunities for older workers. They can bring valuable benefits to the workplace that offset slightly elevated health and safety risks, writes Jon Herbert. Ageing workforce Older workers are increasingly represented in the workplace. They often need to   Read More …