Ayrton Group

The theme for this year’s European Week for Health and Safety at Work is “Safe and Healthy Work in the Digital Age” and sheds light on how digitalisation has transformed the workplace. While digital tools, automation and remote work provide undeniable benefits to both employers and employees, they also come with unique risks to employee health and wellbeing. Understanding these risks and knowing how to mitigate them is important to ensure a sustainable and healthy work environment in the digital age.

Health risks associated with Digitalisation

Physical Strain and Sedentary Lifestyles: Increased screen time, prolonged sitting, and poor ergonomics can lead to physical health problems such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), eye strain and headaches. The repetitive nature of certain tasks or awkward postures at workstations not designed for long-term comfort contribute significantly to these issues.

Mental Health Challenges: The rise of ‘always-on culture’, with constant access to emails and work-related notifications, blurs the boundaries between personal life and work. This can lead to stress, burnout, and anxiety. Digital isolation, especially for remote workers, may exacerbate feelings of loneliness and disengagement. Employees who work from home or away from their teams often miss out on casual interactions and the sense of community present in a traditional office environment. Over time, this lack of social connection can lead to loneliness, which is closely linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety.

Information Overload: In the digital age, employees face an overwhelming amount of information, notifications, and multitasking. The constant barrage of stimuli can lead to cognitive overload, reducing productivity and increasing stress levels. Multitasking in this way can make it difficult to focus and complete tasks efficiently.

Cybersecurity Concerns: Digitalisation also raises concerns around data privacy and cybersecurity. Employees may feel pressure to maintain security protocols, adding stress to their daily routines. The threat of cyberattacks can create anxiety, especially for those handling sensitive data.

Innovations and Initiatives to Mitigate Risks

Ergonomic Solutions: Employers have been investing in ergonomically designed workspaces, including adjustable chairs, standing desks and monitor stands, to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Plus, encouraging regular breaks to stretch or walk helps combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting.

Mental Health Support Programs: Employers should promote mental health initiatives, such as access to counselling services or employee assistance programs (EAPs). Creating a supportive culture where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges is key to reducing workplace stress and burnout.

Digital Detoxes: Establishing boundaries through ‘digital detox policies’, such as no emails after certain hours or designated “focus” times without notifications, can help employees separate work from personal time. These policies also encourage employees to take screen breaks, reducing the cognitive strain that comes from digital overload.

Education on Digital Wellbeing: Offering training/ information on digital wellbeing can empower employees to use technology more mindfully. This might include teaching techniques like time management, reducing multitasking and using apps that promote mindfulness or stress management.

Data Security Training: Regular cybersecurity training can ease employees’ fears about handling data safely. Clear, well-communicated protocols can reduce anxiety about potential breaches and empower employees to navigate their digital workspaces confidently.

Conclusion

The digital transformation of the workplace has opened up incredible opportunities, but it also presents challenges that need to be addressed. Employers must prioritise strategies that safeguard both the physical and mental wellbeing of their workforce in the digital age. By taking proactive measures through ergonomic innovations, mental health support, digital boundaries and training, organisations can create healthier, more sustainable working environments that benefit both employees and employers alike.

By fostering a culture of digital wellness, businesses can ensure that the advancements of the digital age empower rather than exhaust their workforce, helping employees to thrive both professionally and personally.

When we think of workplace health and safety, the obvious hazards—such as heavy machinery, slippery floors, or exposed electrical wiring—often come to mind. However, many workplace risks are not as immediately apparent, and these hidden dangers can be just as, if not more, harmful. Identifying, assessing, and mitigating these unseen risks is crucial for ensuring a safe and healthywork environment.

Hidden, Unseen, and Less Obvious Risks in the Workplace

Ergonomic Risks: Poor workstation design, repetitive motion, prolonged sitting or standing all poserisks to an employee’s health and wellbeing. These risks often lead to musculoskeletal disorders(MSDs), including back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain injuries. The effectsare cumulative and may take years to manifest, making them easy to overlook.

Indoor Air Quality: Poor ventilation, hidden mould, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from officefurniture or cleaning products can lead to respiratory issues, headaches, fatigue, and long-termhealth problems such as asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions.

Psychosocial Hazards: Workplace bullying, high-stress environments, lack of support, unclear jobroles can all cause severe mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. Overtime, they can also lead to physical health problems like hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Chemical Exposures: Cleaning agents, solvents, dust particles, and other substances that may not beimmediately visible or detectable are all less obvious issues. Even low-level exposure to certainchemicals over an extended period can lead to serious health conditions, including skin irritations,respiratory issues, and in some cases, long-term illnesses such as cancer.

Electrical Hazards: Overloaded circuits, hidden damaged wiring, improper grounding are commonplace in the workplace as well as the home. Electrical hazards might not always be visible but canlead to electric shocks, fires, and even fatalities if not properly managed.

Occupational Noise: Constant background noise, exposure to loud machinery or equipment without
adequate hearing protection can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. Prolonged exposure to noise
can also lead to stress and decreased productivity.

How to Identify, Assess, and Mitigate Hidden Risks

  1. Conduct Comprehensive Risk Assessments
    Regular risk assessments should go beyond the obvious dangers to include ergonomic evaluations,
    air quality testing, and assessments of psychosocial factors. Engage employees in identifying
    potential hazards—they are often the first to notice subtle changes in their work environment.
  2. Implement Ergonomic Solutions
    Ensure workstations are adjustable and provide proper support. Encourage regular breaks and
    stretches, particularly for those in repetitive or stationary roles. Training on proper posture and
    movement techniques can also be beneficial.
  3. Monitor and Improve Air Quality
    Regularly check ventilation systems, clean HVAC units, and ensure there are no hidden sources of
    mould or VOCs. Consider air quality monitoring devices to detect and mitigate pollutants in real-
    time.
  4. Foster a Positive Workplace Culture
    Address psychosocial hazards by promoting open communication, offering mental health support,
    and ensuring clear job roles and responsibilities. Training managers to recognise signs of stress or
    burnout can help mitigate these risks early.
  5. Enhance Chemical Safety
    Store chemicals properly, provide adequate ventilation, and use protective equipment as necessary.
    Regularly review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals in use and ensure that employees are
    trained in handling them safely.
  6. Regular Electrical Safety Checks
    Have a qualified electrician conduct regular inspections of wiring, outlets, and electrical equipment.
    Implement procedures to prevent overloading circuits and ensure all electrical installations meet
    safety standards.
  7. Manage Occupational Noise
    Provide appropriate hearing protection where needed and consider soundproofing in particularly
    noisy areas. Monitoring noise levels and rotating employees to reduce exposure times can also help.

Why Employer Responsibility is Critical

Under Irish law, employers have a duty of care to protect the health, safety, and well-being of their
employees, whether they are working on-site, off-site, or performing tasks such as driving a work-
related vehicle. This responsibility is not only a legal requirement under the Safety, Health and

Welfare at Work Act 2005 but also an ethical imperative. Ensuring a safe working environment helps
prevent accidents, reduces absenteeism, increases productivity, and fosters a positive workplace
culture.

Employers must ensure that any off-site work is properly assessed for potential hazards, including
travel risks, remote work challenges, and site-specific dangers.

Ensure that vehicles are well-maintained, drivers are trained in defensive driving techniques, and
that the risks of fatigue, distraction, or driving in adverse conditions are mitigated.

Failure to address these hidden risks can lead to serious consequences, including legal liabilities,
increased insurance costs, and damage to the company’s reputation. Moreover, ensuring the health
and safety of employees promotes a loyal, engaged, and productive workforce.

Hidden and less obvious risks in the workplace can have significant long-term impacts on employee
health and safety. By conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing targeted mitigation
strategies, and fostering a culture of safety, employers can protect their workforce and ensure a
safer, healthier work environment. In today’s competitive and regulatory landscape, prioritising
hidden risks is not just good practice—it’s essential.

Workplace First aid training is a crucial aspect of workplace safety that empowers employees to act confidently and effectively in emergencies. In a workplace environment, accidents can happen unexpectedly, and having trained staff on hand can make a significant difference in the outcome of such incidents.

Empowering Employees Through Training

First aid training equips employees with the skills and knowledge needed to handle various medical emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening situations. The confidence gained from this training can be lifesaving; employees learn how to assess situations quickly, provide essential care, and stabilise a colleague until professional help arrives. This preparedness not only ensures a safer workplace but also fosters a sense of responsibility and care among the staff, enhancing overall morale and teamwork.

Implementing First Aid Training in the Workplace

To implement first aid training effectively, employers should start by identifying the specific needs of their workplace, considering the nature of the work and the common risks associated with it. Partnering with a certified training provider is essential to ensure that the training is comprehensive and up-to-date with the latest guidelines.

Training should be mandatory for all employees, with refreshers held regularly to maintain competence. It’s also advisable to have designated first aid officers who receive advanced training and can lead in emergency situations. Additionally, workplaces should be equipped with easily accessible first aid kits and automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and all employees should know their locations.

Importance of Continuous Learning

Employers must ensure compliance with legislation, such as the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, which mandates the provision of first aid training. The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 stipulates that employers must:

Failure to comply with these obligations can result in legal consequences for the employer.

Regular audits and reviews of safety procedures should be conducted to adapt to any changes in the workplace environment or new health risks.

Continuous learning and regular drills help reinforce the skills learned during first aid training. Encouraging a culture of safety and preparedness will ensure that employees are always ready to respond in an emergency, potentially saving lives and minimising the impact of workplace injuries.

Role of a Health and Safety Officer in the Workplace

A Health and Safety Officer (HSO) plays an important role in ensuring the safety, health, and welfare of employees in the workplace. Their responsibilities include:

Incidents when First Aid plays a life-saving role in the Workplace

The following examples illustrate how first aid training enables employees to respond effectively in emergencies, reducing the severity of injuries and potentially saving lives.

First aid training is not just a legal obligation; it is a vital investment in the well-being of employees and the overall safety culture of the workplace. By implementing regular, comprehensive training programs, employers can empower their staff to act swiftly and effectively in emergencies, ultimately creating a safer and more supportive work environment.

At Ayrton Group, our first aid training courses are delivered by qualified, competent and confident instructors and provide the highest level of training to tend to workplace accidents and emergencies, including when to use and how to use life saving techniques. All our courses are designed in line with relevant regulations and legislation to fulfil your legal obligations.

Contact us today and talk to our expert team about how we can tailor a solution for your specific project needs.

Fire safety is a critical aspect of workplace health and safety that cannot be overlooked. Ensuring a safe working environment not only protects employees but also safeguards assets and maintains business continuity. 

In recent years, incidents of workplace fires are rare, which is a good indication that businesses are taking fire safety seriously. But business owners cannot become complacent. One of the most effective ways to enhance fire safety in the workplace is through regular fire safety audits.

The Importance of Fire Safety Audits

Fire safety audits are systematic evaluations of the fire safety measures within a workplace. These audits identify potential fire hazards, assess the effectiveness of existing safety measures and recommend improvements to prevent fires. The benefits of conducting regular fire safety audits include:

Legislation on Fire Safety

In Ireland, fire safety is governed by several key pieces of legislation:

Mitigating Potential Fire Hazards

Preventing workplace fires involves identifying and mitigating potential hazards. Here are some key strategies:

The Role of Fire Safety Training

Fire safety training is a crucial component of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. Training ensures that employees are aware of fire risks and know how to respond in an emergency. Key elements of fire safety training include:

In conclusion, fire safety audits are essential for maintaining a safe workplace. By complying with legislation, mitigating potential fire hazards and providing comprehensive fire safety training, employers can significantly reduce the risk of workplace fires and ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. As stated on the Health & Safety Authority website, “The safest way to deal with fire is to prevent it”.

Regular fire safety audits are not just a legal obligation but a crucial step in fostering a proactive safety culture within any organisation.

At Ayrton Group, we offer a full range of fire safety management and training. So, if your business requirements support on any aspect of fire safety management, get in contact with us today. 

Ireland has built a reputation as a food destination given the quality of our ingredients and culinary professionals. And, is a significant contributor to the Irish economy. According to Bord Bia’s Foodservice Market Insights Report last year, it stated that the Irish ‘out of home’ sector was on track to generate €9.3bn across the island of Ireland, marking a record high. 

Therefore, food safety training is paramount in the food sector, where the health and well-being of consumers depend directly on the practices of food handlers. Whether in a restaurant, staff canteen or forecourt deli, ensuring that all employees are well-trained in food safety is not only a legal requirement but also a critical component of a successful food business and supports our valued reputation as a leading tourist destination, whether domestic or international.

The Importance of Food Safety Training

Food safety training is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses, maintaining high standards of hygiene, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. According to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI), food businesses are legally required to ensure that all food handlers are supervised and instructed and/or trained in food hygiene matters commensurate with their work activity. This includes understanding the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), which is a systematic preventive approach to food safety.

The benefits of comprehensive food safety training include:

Implementing Food Safety Training Every Day

To integrate food safety training effectively, it should be part of the daily routine and culture of the workplace. It’s not enough to just treat food safety as “common sense”; food businesses invest in ongoing training and ensuring employees have the most relevant certification to ensure they are equipped to safely handle food. 

It is worth noting that the FSAI publish the results of inspections on a monthly basis, naming businesses that have been served with Enforcement Orders. In 2023, a total of 92 Enforcement Orders were served, an increase of 19% on 2022. Of these, 79 were Closure Orders. 

In May of this year, 21 Closure Orders were served; a significantly high number. When publishing its figures, the FSAI continuously reinforces the importance of food safety training.

Here are some actions employers can take to ensure the importance of food safety is front of mind every day:

Implementing these practices ensures that food safety remains a priority and becomes ingrained in the daily operations of the business.

Staying Updated with the Latest Food Safety Training

It’s important that employees understand why certain standards, processes and procedures are in place in relation to food safety. And, why there should be no short-cuts. Food safety training instils a clear sense of purpose behind cleaning, sanitising, appropriate handling of different foods and cross contamination. It creates a culture of diligence, responsibility and respect for customer well-being as well as: 

But there can be some challenges faced by food business owners to bear in mind:

Relevant Legislation and Best Practices

Regardless of these challenges, which are easily overcome, there are legal obligations that food businesses must comply with:

EU General Food Law Regulation (EC) 178/2002: Establishes the general principles and requirements of food law, setting the foundation for food safety in the EU.

EU Regulation on the Hygiene of Foodstuffs (EC) 852/2004: Lays down the general hygiene requirements for food business operators.

Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act, 1998: Provides the framework for food safety control and enforcement in Ireland.

Best practices include adhering to HACCP principles, conducting regular risk assessments, and ensuring that all food handlers have access to accredited training programs.

Conclusion

Food safety training is a critical aspect of managing a food business, with significant implications for public health, regulatory compliance, and business reputation. By making food safety training a daily priority and staying updated with the latest standards and regulations, food businesses can ensure they provide safe, high-quality products to their customers while fostering a culture of safety and excellence.

At Ayrton Group, we provide comprehensive food safety training courses. Get in touch for more information on how we can support your food business with relevant training, guidance and advice.

Introduction

Earlier this year the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) published data relating to workplace fatalities in 2023. It reported that 43 people lost their lives in work-related accidents, proving a stark reminder of the critical need for comprehensive health and safety training in the workplace. The data highlights that there was a sharp increase in the number of workplace fatalities last year (43) compared with 28 in 2022. However, there has been a decrease in the rate of fatalities over the ten year period from 2.8 per 100,000 workers in 2014 down to 1.6 workers per 100,000 in 2023.

Rising Concerns

The HSA’s findings reveal a troubling reality: despite advancements in safety regulations and technological innovations, workplace accidents continue to claim lives and cause debilitating injuries. The number of workplace fatalities remains distressingly high, with incidents occurring across diverse industries and paint a sobering picture. There continues to be a high level of fatalities in the farming/ agriculture sector (16 fatalities) and construction (11 fatalities); accounting for over two third of all workplace fatalities last year.

Working with vehicles accounted for the loss of 13 lives, the highest cause, while falling from heights was the second leading cause with 11 fatalities. While workplace fatalities affected all age groups, the highest number involved people of the age of 55 and over with 22 fatalities in 2023 compared with just 10 in 2022. Over half (53%) of all fatalities were self-employed.

The vast majority of those who lost their lives (39) were male and four were female. Co. Cork has the highest number of fatalities (7 lives lost) with Dublin and Kerry both accounting for 5 fatalities each.

Workplace fatalities Ireland

The Human Cost

Behind every statistic lies a human story — a worker whose life was cut short, a family grappling with grief, and individuals coping with life-altering injuries. These tragedies serve as poignant reminders of the imperative to prioritise safety in every workplace. Beyond the economic costs and legal ramifications, the human toll of workplace accidents underscores the moral obligation to safeguard workers’ well-being.

The HSA urged self-employed and duty holders and employers to undertake risk assessments and ensure the appropriate safety measures and controls are in place to protect workers.

The Role of Training

Amidst these sobering realities, workplace health and safety training as well as the appropriate assessments and controls are indispensable tools in preventing accidents and mitigating risks. Ayrton Group and others offer a comprehensive range of effective training programs that empower employees with the knowledge, skills, and awareness necessary to identify hazards, implement preventive measures, and respond swiftly to emergencies. By fostering a culture of safety, training initiatives not only reduce the likelihood of accidents but also cultivate a sense of collective responsibility among workers.

Collaborative Efforts

Our partnership approach to working with organisations means we have a full understanding of their specific health and safety challenges and ensures we deliver the training to employees to meet these challenges. Through partnership and by fostering dialogue, sharing best practices, and leveraging collective expertise, organisations can enhance safety standards and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement.

Conclusion

As we confront the sobering realities revealed by the latest HSA report, the imperative of workplace health and safety training has never been more important. By prioritizing prevention over reaction and investing in robust training courses, risks can be mitigated, lives saved, and a culture of collective responsibility cultivated.

Let us heed the call to action, recognising that safeguarding lives is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative that defines our commitment to the well-being of our workforce and society as a whole.

Financial Fallout: While the immediate costs of workplace accidents might seem contained, the ripple effect is significant. Consider these average figures for Ireland:

For any business, employee safety is paramount. It’s not just a moral obligation, but a smart financial decision. While injuries and accidents might seem like one-off incidents, the true cost extends far beyond immediate medical bills and workers’ compensation. Here at Ayrton Group, we firmly believe that prioritising safety and understanding these hidden costs are crucial for ensuring a healthy and productive work environment.

But these are just the tip of the iceberg. Hidden expenses include:

A Human Cost We Cannot Ignore: Sadly, even with robust safety measures, workplace fatalities can occur. According to ILO and EU-OSHA research, work-related accidents and illnesses result in the loss of 3.9% of global GDP, translating to a staggering €2,680 billion annually. The human costs of workplace accidents is immeasurable, leaving families and communities devastated. No amount of money can compensate for the loss of life or the lasting physical and emotional trauma.

Time and Energy Drain: The hidden costs don’t stop there. Every accident, regardless of severity, diverts valuable time and energy away from core business activities. The average length of a workplace accident case in Ireland is 12 months, consuming time and energy for:

These hidden costs can lead to decreased morale, higher employee turnover, and a less efficient overall operation.

Investing in Safety, Investing in Success: At Ayrton Group, we understand that prevention is always better than cure. That’s why we are proud to be NEBOSH certified and prioritise:

By proactively investing in safety, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and their associated costs. Remember, prioritising safety is not just about ticking boxes; it’s an investment in your:

Partner with Ayrton Group and let us help you create a workplace where safety is not just a value, but a way of life.

Together, let’s prevent accidents, protect lives, and ensure a brighter future for everyone.

Contact us today to learn more about our safety solutions.

Following Construction Safety Month in October, this month we will be looking at what is involved in safe lifting & loading as all lifting activities require a high level of competency and knowledge, and planning is essential. 

 

What is involved in planning a safe lift?

When it comes to safe lifting and loading, there are national standards in place through the National Standards Authority of Ireland. When planning a lift, it’s important that you are aware of the level of risk associated with the activity. As with all activities on a site, a risk assessment is a fundamental activity in reducing the risk of accidents taking place and is required by the HSA (Source). The key elements that should be considered  and questions you should be asking when planning a lift are:

When broken down into stages, the planning of any safe lifting operation can become relatively straightforward. 

 

What is the ‘Common Sense’ approach?

The stages of planning a safe lifting operation can be easily recalled using the ‘common sense’ approach. This is: 

 

What is load security?

During the Safe Lifting & Loading Month, the CIF also draws our attention to the importance of safe load securing and transportation. Loads carried in or on any vehicle need to be secured so that they cannot move or fall off or out of the vehicle. When moving at speed, these items can cause serious injury to occupants of the vehicle, other road users and pedestrians. 

According to the RSA, load security is a term that is used to cover load restraint and load containment. These terms can be defined as follows:

In addition to potentially causing serious injuries, unsecured loads can result in financial losses and damages to goods, property and machinery. Therefore, it’s important that Employers, Vehicle Owners, Loading & Unloading Staff, and Drivers play their role in ensuring that loads are transported safely. To learn more about Load Security, you can read this information leaflet from the Road Safety Authority. 

Safety should always be the top priority for those working in the construction industry, across all levels. At Ayrton Group, we offer a number of relevant courses including Slinger Signaller Training and Mobile Elevating Work Platforms – Scissors & Boom. Speak to a member of our team today about your business’s specific needs and the training courses we can offer to ensure your employees are fully equipped to undertake safe lifting and loading operations. Contact us here.

Hazards associated with green jobs 

‘Green jobs’ are a relatively new description of opportunities that focus on environmentally friendly work activities. As the requirement to balance economic growth and environmental protection becomes more…, the number and scope of these jobs expands. As the sector develops and opportunities increase, so do the number of new risks associated with the activities. It’s important that as the green economy continues to grow, that green jobs are safe for workers as well as the environment.

 

What are green jobs?

According to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, green jobs can be defined as ‘contributing, in some way, to the preservation or restoration of the environment’. The green economy is diverse, spanning a multitude of sectors, skills and specialisations. These types of jobs can include activities that help to protect ecosystems and biodiversity, reducing the consumption of energy and raw materials, or reducing waste and pollution (Source).

 

Health and safety implications

While green jobs have numerous benefits for the environment and society, they may still come with some health and safety risks – the word ‘green’ does not necessarily mean ‘safe’ for workers who are employed in these jobs. As such, it’s important that proper consideration and assessment is undertaken within all workplaces. 

The types of (potential) risks associated with these emerging industries can be broadly defined as follows: 

 

1. Traditional Risks

People working in green industries can face health and safety hazards that are commonly associated and recognised in more ‘traditional’ workplaces:

 

2. New Risks

Besides the ‘traditional’ work-related risks, green workers could be exposed to new and emerging risks that may be associated with new technologies, processes, workforces and indeed substances or agents. 

In rapidly evolving green industries, workers and employers may face challenges related to inadequate training and knowledge gaps concerning new technologies and practices, increasing the likelihood of accidents and mistakes.

 

To ensure the success of green jobs while minimising health and safety risks, it is essential for employers and regulators to implement proper training programs, enforce safety protocols, conduct risk assessments, and provide workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).  A new combination of skills will be required to negate these risks (source). Continuous monitoring and improvement of workplace safety practices will contribute to a safer environment for those engaged in green jobs.

 

At Ayrton, our consultancy team has considerable experience in the assessment and management of hazards across all types of workplaces and are continually upskilling to provide best-in-class service. Contact us here to find out more.