HSE Issues Urgent Safety Warnings for Workers

Below is an overview of recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) news and developments in the UK – from the consultation on PFAS in firefighting foams to multiple safety warnings and sector updates.

1. HSE Consultation on PFAS in Firefighting Foams
The HSE has recently launched a six‑month public consultation aimed at gathering stakeholder views on restricting per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams. Stakeholders have until 18 February 2026 to submit evidence. This initiative forms part of the HSE’s wider responsibility in delivering UK REACH standards. For more details on the consultation, visit the HSE’s official page on PFAS issues at [HSE – PFAS Consultation](https://www.hse.gov.uk).

2. Plant and Excavator Safety Warnings
In other news, the HSE has issued a safety warning concerning the risk of workers being struck by heavy machinery – including excavators and moving loads. With incidents continuing to highlight the dangers in various workplaces, HSE guidance on safe operating procedures is essential. You can learn more about such alerts at [HSE Safety Guidance](https://www.hse.gov.uk/work).

3. Retail and Building Safety Concerns
Recent headlines have included the forced closure of a John Lewis store over health and safety issues. In addition, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) is warning that overheating in UK buildings could soon become a major safety crisis. Both instances underscore the importance of robust health and safety compliance in everyday operations. More updates on these stories are available via news sections on the HSE website and industry publications.

4. Worker Incidents and Enforcement Actions
A chemical company was fined £100,000 after an incident involving burns from a faulty steam hose, marking another reminder of the need for risk awareness and proper equipment checks at work sites. Similar enforcement actions reinforce the critical nature of adhering to best practices. Find more information and case studies on the [HSE Enforcement and Incident Reports](https://www.hse.gov.uk/investigation).

5. Expanding Training and Technological Safety Solutions
Alongside regulatory and enforcement measures, there is a strong emphasis on continuous professional development. CPD-approved health and safety training courses are available to ensure organizations meet compliance regulations. Additionally, companies like Ideagen are expanding their safety solutions—for example, through the recent acquisition of Reactec, which brings innovative wearable technology to the field. Read the full press release on Business Wire at [Ideagen – Reactec Acquisition](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250817122865/en/).

6. Other Sector-Specific Developments
Other important HSE developments include:
• A renewed focus on workplace heat-stress laws and how overheating might jeopardize building safety.
• Advisories for offshore vessel operators regarding unsafe gangways, following incidents that have prompted urgent safety notices.
• Updates on investigations into fatal incidents – such as the case involving the tragic death of George Gilbey – emphasizing the HSE’s commitment to ensuring that thorough investigations lead to actionable safety improvements.

Staying Informed
For the latest updates on health and safety in the UK, it’s worthwhile to regularly check the [HSE News and Press Releases](https://www.hse.gov.uk/news). Whether you are a stakeholder in the firefighting sector, involved in industrial operations, or managing retail or construction sites, these updates underscore the ongoing efforts to prevent workplace accidents and safeguard public health.

By following these updates and consulting the detailed HSE resources, businesses and workers alike can stay ahead in implementing the best practices to ensure a safe working environment across the UK.