HSE gets ready to play the heavy

Stung, perhaps, by recent criticism of its effectiveness, the Health & Safety Executive is planning to name and shame companies and individuals convicted of offences.

In a tough new stance, the "full glare of publicity" is to be aimed at the guilty parties. This, together with plans to publicise impending prosecutions, is designed to act as a reminder of obligations to assess and mitigate risks.

In the continuing effort to provide the tools to do this, a new method for evaluating musculoskeletal disorder risk has been published, following an HSE-funded study.

Back problems are one of the most frequently cited complaints in the workplace. This assessment tool consists of checklists, score sheets and guidance notes covering posture and movement of the back, shoulders and arms Ð all designed to measure the risk involved in changes to the workplace, work methods or equipment.

More information on Evaluating Changes in Exposure to Risk for Musculoskeletal Disorders Ð A Practical Tool is available for HSE Books on 01787-881165.

Elliott Chase