DEFRA has published a statement which outlines plans for an alternative transitional registration model (ATRm) for UK REACH.  This aims to reduce the costs to industry associated with buying or accessing EU hazard information while continuing to ensure high levels of protection of human health and the environment. A consultation on the proposals will be published in early 2024. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-reach-alternative-transitional-registration-model-atrm/uk-reach-alternative-transitional-registration-model-atrm

HSE has launched a campaign ‘Asbestos – Your Duty’ to highlight the risk of asbestos in buildings and raise awareness of the legal duty to manage those risks. https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/duty/index.htm

HSE reminds companies who import or export PIC listed chemicals that they must complete returns, using templates available on the their website, for the year of 2023.  Returns must be submitted by  31st March. https://www.hse.gov.uk/pic/annual-reporting.htm?utm_source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=chemicals-guidance&utm_term=pic-1&utm_content=pic-23-jan-24

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch has published a report on an accident which resulted in the loss of life to a deck hand who fell overboard from a fishing boat. The investigation found that: • the unwritten on board process for shooting nets was unsafe and required crew to work at height without appropriate guard rails or a safety harness and tether to protect them. • The crew were habitually wearing their lifejackets with loose waist straps and it was probable that the deckhand slipped out of his lifejacket when he fell into the water. • The lifejackets used by the crew were compliant but unsuitable for the vessel’s operation because they were not fitted with a light, personal locator beacon, crotch strap or spray hood.

https://www.gov.uk/maib-reports/fall-overboard-from-fishing-vessel-eder-sands-with-loss-of-1-life