Hazards number 167, Autumn 2024
FEATURES
Last gasp Wassam is dead at 28. Marek, confined to a hospital bed, knows he is destined to follow soon. A coroner has demanded that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) responds to a silica crisis killing UK workers faster and younger. Hazards editor Rory O’Neill questions when HSE will act to end the silica dust exposures that are turning lungs to stone. more
Growing pains Removing Conservative anti-union laws, extending employment rights. It was a good start from Keir Starmer and the new Labour government. But Hazards editor Rory O’Neill warns that the prime minister’s promises to do away with red tape in the pursuit of growth could dangerously undermine workers’ rights and safety. more
Taking the biscuit When management won’t budge, the most effective way to achieve improvements in workplace health and safety is for workers to act collectively rather than relying on one or two vocal individuals. more
The asbestos pushers The decision was clear. The Indonesia Supreme Court gave its backing to campaigners who had argued deadly asbestos cement products must come with a warning label. But instead of accepting the decision, the asbestos industry decided on a different tack – suing the groups who brought the case for £400,000 a month for lost income. more
CENTREPAGES
Stop it! A new law gives women protection from harassment at work. It places for the first time a proactive duty on employers to prevent abuse. But Hazards editor Rory O’Neill warns the responsible regulator, EHRC, can’t undertake preventive inspections and HSE has stepped back, and now says it will do absolutely nothing to help the women at risk. more
POSTER
Growing pains It's your choice Sir Keir. Red tape or more bloody bandages. more
ELSEWHERE IN HAZARDS
News in brief 10-13. Work and health 14-15. Suicide at work 16-17. Deadly business 26-29. Infections 30-31. Climate and work 32-33. International news 34-35.
