Industrial operators can turn to specialist providers to help overcome key health and safety challenges

Industrial operators, regardless of subsector, will all have a common major area to consider: health and safety. This continually evolving area can be a minefield to navigate and staying abreast of developments can be a task for which resources are scarce.

In fact, the RS 2024 Health & Safety report Striving for Excellence, based on findings from a survey conducted among health and safety professionals, highlighted these skills shortages, which were cited by 47 per cent of respondents as the biggest risk to an organisation. Additionally, with training and development cited as having the biggest impact on compliance, by 68 per cent of those surveyed, how can firms best remain compliant and meet continually changing legislation? 

Turning to specialist providers of services and solutions is one way industrial operators are tackling these kinds of challenges. Training is a huge area, but is key to keeping people and products safe and remaining compliant. Furthermore, with HSE statistics illustrating the real impact workplace accidents, mental health or work-related conditions like respiratory problems can have on an organisation and the economy, it’s an area not to be side-lined.

Mental health comes to the fore

The RS Striving for Excellence report showed that mental health is an area of concern for firms, with 75 per cent of respondents claiming their company has a focus on it and 55 per cent saying they are confident in their capabilities in this area. With mental health training becoming more common and accessible, many firms are looking to include this in their suite of training. Not only can it help with spreading an understanding of mental health indicators in the workplace, but arm mental health first aiders with the skills they need to support those experiencing it. 

This area is being recognised as important, along with first aid. And when looking for training providers in either, it’s advisable to look for those who are an accredited partner with specific experience and Ofqual or SQA approved.

 In addition to basic first aid, it’s worth considering other training courses like anaphylaxis management training or oxygen therapy administration. Catastrophic bleed training may also be a requirement in some environments where machinery could pose a risk. Finding a provider who can offer all of these in one place would be the most cost effective and logical option.

PPE requirements an increasing priority

Keeping up-to-date with new products and technology, including more sustainable options and options for women, can also be a challenge for health and safety professionals. PPE like masks, gloves, head and eye wear or clothing must be fit-for-purpose and at the correct size for the wearer, to avoid injury through loose items becoming caught up in machinery. Uncomfortable PPE can end up being discarded or not worn correctly and therefore jeopardise safety through lack of proper protection.

Working with knowledgeable providers who can provide the right training, like mask face-fit testing, is essential. Along with those who can supply quality compliant PPE options and audits to ensure the correct options are being used for the right applications . . . and itis one way to solve a procurement headache. 

The options now for training, with customisable options, flexible location possibilities and providers offering a one-stop-shop for both health and safety training and solutions means organisations struggling with resource or skills shortages can have peace of mind that they are acting in the best interests of their employees and remain compliant. In a landscape of growing and changing legislation, no one can afford not to prioritise health and safety. 

For more health and safety insights, the RS 2024 Health & Safety report Striving for Excellence can be downloaded here.

Ryan Plummer is senior director for RS Safety Solutions