Dutch Reach – New Guidance for drivers in the latest Highway Code

New guidance for drivers in the latest Highway Code could prevent injury to cyclists and motorcyclists

The Dutch Reach is a practice for drivers and passengers where, rather than using your hand closest to the door to open it, you use your far hand. This choice sets off a series of five linked actions: reach, swivel, look back, open slowly, and then exit facing traffic.

By making a few small changes to our behaviour, we can all do our bit to enhance the safety of those with little protection out on the roads. The Highway Code suggests a simple technique – often referred to as the Dutch Reach – that can help drivers to form the habit of looking out for cyclists, motorcyclists and also pedestrians when opening their car or van door.

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Spot checks continue to help businesses work safely

HSE’s spot check programme is still in operation to ensure workplaces are working safely and following the latest government COVID-19 guidance.

The spot check programme provides expert advice during calls and visits to businesses on how to manage risk and protect workers, customers and visitors.

Check the latest GOV.UK guidance on preventing the spread of coronavirus.

There is separate advice for Scotland and Wales.

 

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Plant Hire Company in Court over Work at Height and Welfare Issues

A plant hire company has been fined over £66k for leaving workers at risk of a fall from height and failing to provide minimum welfare facilities.

An investigation by HSE found that workers had been left unsupervised by site management and there were no preventative measures in place to prevent the risk of a fall from height.

Workers were also expected to drive to the company’s head office more than five minutes’ drive away to use the toilet, despite there being ample room on the site for facilities.

Read this press release for more details on this incident.

You can find guidance on working at height and providing welfare facilities for workers on the HSE website

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Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations Changes from 6th April 2022

Under PPER 2022, the types of duties and responsibilities on employers and employees under PPER 1992 will remain unchanged but will extend to limb (b) workers, as defined in PPER 2022.

If PPE is required, employers must ensure their workers have sufficient information, instruction and training on the use of PPE.

A limb (b) worker will have the duty to use the PPE in accordance with their training and instruction, and ensure it is returned to the storage area provided by their employer.

For more information on the changes of the scope of the PPE Regulations which apply from 6 April 2022 are available on the link below: There is also basic advice on PPE at work and guidance on using PPE to protect people from COVID-19.

Personal protective equipment at work regulations are changing

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