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Employers often issue a ‘standard’ contract of employment to an apprentice and simply renamed it, calling it an apprentice contract or agreement rather than issuing a formal legally compliant apprentice agreement, and by doing so will unwittingly enter into an apprentice contract instead. Please note it can be difficult to get out of or take […]

This guidance note sets out the significant changes to the calculation of holiday pay that are expected to come into effect from 2024 and how these changes might affect both employers and employees. It includes information about the concept of ‘rolled-up’ holiday pay as a way of calculating payment of annual leave for employees with […]

In the bustling world of the modern workplace, ensuring the comfort and safety of employees is not just a matter of convenience but a legal requirement in the UK. The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002, mandates employers to assess and reduce […]

My first task in H&S Management was to formulate and implement a system to manage hazardous substances and to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), which were introduced in 1988 and came into effect the following year. I worked for a large privately owned engineering company and had to compile […]

Overview of RAAC Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) gained prominence in the construction industry due to its unique blend of lightweight properties, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Developed as a variant of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC), RAAC has found its way into various building types, offering advantages in terms of design flexibility and construction efficiency. However, […]

A recent ruling in the employment tribunal (ET) case of Lynskey v Direct Line Insurance Services highlights a critical area for organisational development and sensitivity: the impact of menopause on employees. In what will be seen by many as a notable case, Direct Line Insurance Services faced liability for discrimination arising from disability and a […]

While there is no legal requirement to carry out a return to work discussion following an employee’s absence, there are numerous benefits in doing so. Such discussions are an important part of absence management and ensuring managers are aware of any issues potentially affecting a staff member’s ability to carry out their role effectively. In […]

During an investigation, disciplinary or grievance process, it’s easy to get so embroiled in the detail that you forget one important thing; to obtain consent from any witnesses who are providing you with evidence, whether that be evidence against an employee whom you are disciplining or evidence for or against an employee or employees involved […]