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Concern grows over building control services
Practitioners need to be newly certified and registered by 6 April. No one seems to believe that can be achieved.
BESA: every building is high risk
Against a background of changing regulations, that’s the way to think says the hard services trade group.
HSE: new forward-looking asbestos campaign
Keep people safe from future dangers of asbestos, the regulator warns.
HSE launches work-related stress tool
The 'much needed' online learning tool aims to help businesses understand and address stress.
Ex Carillion CEO disqualified
The saga rolls on, with former CEO Richard Howson now being disqualified as a director for eight years.
Building Safety Alliance looking for input
The cross-sector group is focusing on the building occupation phase and inviting input on golden thread tools.
Contractors charged following serious fire
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is prosecuting six companies for failing to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
H&S sector calls on government to avoid deregulation
Seven top health and safety bodies have issued a ‘call to arms’ for the government to scrap the arbitrary deadlines of the EU Retained Law Bill.
Vertas launches food waste collection service
Vertas Group’s commercial waste management consultancy division has launched a food collection infrastructure across the UK to support clients in meeting new legislation.
Fire safety: government threatens unlimited fines
Building owners could face unlimited fines following new measures being brought in to strengthen fire safety.
Wales plans risk assessment legislation
The Welsh Government is to strengthen legislation to ensure workplaces and shops are safer, as pandemic conditions persist.
Return to work: getting it right
Getting the workplace ready to reopen is a complex challenge and, happily, there is plenty of advice available. Ensuring the business itself is ready for reopening is a different challenge altogether.
Home Office opens fire safety consultation
The call for evidence seeks views and evidence on the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 for England in workplaces and the parts used in common in multi-occupied residential buildings.
Directors of fit-out firms disqualified
The Competition and Markets Authority has followed up its investigation of illegal cartel behaviour in the office fit-out sector with the disqualification of three company directors.
Joint employer? New advice on employment law and FM
Workplace Law, the employee relations division of training and consultancy organisation International Workplace, has published a white paper on the employment law aspects of outsourcing, in the wake of this week's court judgement.
High Court rejects 'joint employer' concept
A union's argument that outsourced workers should be entitled to negotiate over pay rates and job terms with both their employer and the employer's client has been rejected.
Landmark case goes to High Court today
A challenge to UK law governing outsourcing is due to come before the court, with the union backing it hoping the door will be opened to enacting the concept of a joint employer.
Most office workers check sign-in book as they sign in
New research by Proxyclick, the visitor management company, reveals that many organisations are inadvertently breaking GDPR rules by allowing visitors to see who's been in a building before them.
100% Hackitt campaign launched
An industry initiative to encourage the government to deliver all of the recommendations contained in Dame Judith Hackitt's report has been launched with the backing of two key industry bodies.
Balfour Beatty cited over climate risk reporting
Here's a warning to PLCs in particular. A specialist law firm has reported four UK companies to the Financial Reporting Council over failures to address climate change trends and risks in their reports to shareholders.
Hackett worries about another Grenfell
The author of an independent review into fire safety and building regulations has warned it is impossible to rule out another "catastrophic event" like the Grenfell Tower tragedy if changes aren't made to the regulatory system.
Strong support for retentions bill
Over 200 MPs now support the Aldous Bill, following major efforts by trade groups BESA and ECA to secure support for reforming cash retentions in construction.
Outsourced workers rights case secures judicial review
The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain has received the go-ahead for a High Court review of its case to broaden the rights of employees working on outsourced services contracts.
Unite suing for rights of ex-Carillion workers
The UK's largest union has launched legal action on behalf of 80 staff who were formerly employed by Carillion on a GCHQ contract.
Pimlico Plumbers: a little more clarification of the gig economy
The Supreme Court has ruled against the plumbing company, rejecting its argument that one of its staff was not entitled to employment benefits because he was self-employed. However, the ruling may not be widely applicable.
We've updated our privacy policy
At i-FM, we're committed to protecting your personal data and to handling it responsibly.
Industry bodies largely positive on Hackitt Review
The Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, initiated in response to the Grenfell tragedy, reached a culmination with the publishing of its final report last week.
IWGB applies for review on outsourced workers' rights case
The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain is challenging the decision by the Central Arbitration Committee not to hear an application that would introduce the concept of a 'joint-employer' to the UK.
"Biggest ever" university support staff strike planned
Over 100 cleaners, porters, receptionists and other outsourced workers of the University of London plan to strike on 25 and 26 April.
Assessing GDPR compliance risks
Paper-based visitor logbooks are still a pretty common site across a whole range of organisations. Their compatibility with the forthcoming data privacy law changes is open to serious question.
University of London outsourced staff case rejected
A bid by the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain to challenge the law around the rights of employees working for outsourced service providers has failed at the first hurdle.
BIFM raises future labour concerns
A British Institute of Facilities Management Leaders' Forum focusing on migration issues has raised concerns about potential changes that may exacerbate the existing skills gap in the industry.
Retentions issue coming to parliament
A solution to the problem of contract retentions could lie in a parliamentary Bill to be introduced by Peter Aldous MP with the backing of a number of trade associations.
Law around outsourced workers' rights to be tested
The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain has filed a test case against the University of London aiming to broaden the rights of employees working for outsourced service providers.
Grenfell inquiry must be fire safety "watershed": IOSH
The Grenfell Tower public inquiry must be "a watershed for fire safety", the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health has declared.
GDPR: are you ready?
The EU General Data Protection Regulation is the most important change in data privacy regulation in 20 years. It replaces the 1995 Directive and will be relevant regardless of Brexit timing.
LGA demands building regs review
The Local Government Association has called on central government to launch an "urgent and immediate" review of building regulations.
Open letter to PM draws widespread support
More than 700 organisations and individuals have signed an open letter to Prime Minister Theresa May challenging health and safety deregulation in the wake of the Grenfell Tower blaze.
Gender pay gap reporting: an update
Gender pay reporting legislation came into effect in April. It's a new and potentially confusing area so at the time we asked legal firm Steptoe & Johnson UK LLP to explain what this means. Now there's an update.
Pay gap reporting: what you need to know
Gender pay reporting legislation kicked in this month. It's a new and potentially confusing area so we asked legal firm Steptoe & Johnson UK LLP to provide an overview and some insights into the requirements.
Employment law: headscarves and religious discrimination
Two recent cases at the European Court of Justice centred on whether the banning of a headscarf at work constitutes discrimination. Broadly, the answer is no as long as some basic conditions apply.
Energy guidelines published
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has published long-awaited guidance on the minimum level of energy efficiency required to let non-domestic property. Melanie Kendall-Reid, Compliance Director at Carbon2018, explains.
IOSH reports steep rise in H&S fines
The largest UK fines for health and safety incidents have increased substantially in the past year, according to new research.
Staying on the right side of the law
The Facilities Management Legal Update course, organised by training, consulting and support group International Workplace, has become a fixture in the FM calendar, running now for over 20 years. This year's takes place later this month.
New EPC regs for Scotland
Revised Energy Performance Certificate regulations for Scotland came into force with the arrival of September.
New waste duty of care guidance
Defra has published a new Code of Practice setting out practical guidance on how to meet waste duty of care requirements.
ICO offers data protection self-assessment tool
The Information Commissioner's Office has launched a self-assessment toolkit designed to help small and medium-sized organisations assess their compliance with the Data Protection Act.
ESOS: so, how did we do?
A week after the extended deadline for compliance with the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme it appears that about 60% of the estimated 10,000 companies that should be taking action have in fact done so.
ESOS deadline is Friday
The official date for compliance with the requirements of the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme was 5 December, but the Environment Agency agreed to let that slip to 29 January.
Health & safety changes due in February
The most dramatic changes in health and safety enforcement since 1974, including new sentencing guidelines for offences, come into force next month. Compliance, BSRIA says, is more critical than ever.
Building guidance confounds fire experts
The Fire Sector Federation and Construction Industry Council are calling for change to Building Regulations guidance, as complex and inconsistent language has left even the experts confused.
Energy efficiency: EPC legislation is only the start
With new energy efficiency regulations in mind, industry experts from corporate real estate gathered in London last week to consider whether Energy Performance Certificates are up to the job government expects them to do.
Government plans apprenticeships protection
The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills has announced plans to give the term 'apprenticeship' protection under the law.
Energy legislation website launched
Carbon2018 has unveiled the Energy Legislation Hub, an online platform dedicated to providing the UK commercial property sector with access to free, impartial information on current and future energy compliance issues.
New allergen regulations due this week
The much-discussed food allergen regulations come into effect Friday, creating a legal obligation on caterers and others to accurately record and communicate information about the 14 most common foods that cause allergic reactions.
Energy Institute to provide first ESOS asessors
The Energy Institute has been approved by the Environment Agency to qualify Lead Assessors under the government's Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme.
New food regs will cost £200m per year
As food businesses gear up for new EU Food Information Regulations, the British Hospitality Association estimates the cost of implementation to be up to £200m per year.
Allergic reaction: catering industry faces new food regs
New regulations requiring foodservice companies to provide consumers with accurate information on allergens that may be present in the food being served come into effect in December.
TUPE: paying the price
TUPE regulations are familiar to everyone who has ever been involved with the transfer of a contract; but have recent changes left them a bit toothless in a key area?
Acas offers flexible working advice
Workplace expert Acas has published a new Code of Practice and guidance on the right to request flexible working, introduced yesterday.
Carbon Trust hails new ESOS regulations
The Carbon Trust is calling on British businesses 'to save billions' on their energy bills through implementing the most cost-effective energy efficiency opportunities identified through the new Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme.
Government moves to curtail zero-hours contracts
Business Secretary Vince Cable said that new legislation introduced yesterday would give more flexibility to people on zero-hours contracts which currently restrict work to a single employer.
Acas offers new TUPE guidance
Workplace expert Acas has launched new guidance to help employers who deal with TUPE law when their businesses change hands to a new owner.
Compliance: effectiveness reminders
Compliance is a black & white issue: it's a must on every FM's agenda. But when it comes to implementation, some areas can get a bit grey.
Food for thought: new allergy regulations
At the end of this year new food labelling regulations come into force across Europe, for the first time requiring caterers to provide information to customers about food allergens present in the food they serve, whether packaged or not.
HSE opens CDM consultation
The Health & Safety Executive is seeking views on its proposal to replace the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 and withdraw the Approved Code of Practice.
Refining the 'reasonably practicable' test
Amongst all the change over the past year or two in health and safety law has been a shift in the concept of 'strict liability', the principle that left employers with all but no defence against some claims.
B&ES welcomes energy audit plans
The Building & Engineering Services Association has thrown its weight behind proposals for a single definitive energy audit scheme operating on a UK-wide basis.
SIA explains licensing change timing
The Security Industry Authority has confirmed that from 6 April 2015 all regulated security businesses will need to hold an SIA business licence.
Schal reminds on DECs
New government legislation brought in earlier this year requires all public buildings over 500 square metres to have a Display Energy Certificate in place.
RIDDOR regs revised
Changes to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 1995 came into effect with the arrival of October.
Williams plans 15 year stay in Warwick
Property services company Ian Williams is extending its 10-year relationship with Warwick District Council through a new 15-year contract.
HSE invoices £1m in first six months
A freedom of information request made by business law firm DWF has revealed that invoices issued under the Health and Safety Executive's fees for intervention scheme have passed the £1m mark.
TUPE changes due in January
Changes to the TUPE regulations originally intended for October 2013 are now likely to come into force in January 2014.
GHG reporting on the way
Mandatory reporting of greenhouse gas emissions is just around the corner for listed companies. The time to prepare is now, says KPMG.
HSE looking at COSHH and legionella
The Health and Safety Executive has launched three consultations on changes to the content of Approved Codes of Practice.
Testing times
Procedures for and timing of testing of electrical equipment in the workplace must generate as much discussion in FM as many of the industry's 'big issues'.
Wales threatens law on asbestos
The UK Asbestos Training Association has welcomed the move by a Welsh Assembly member to bring forward a bill that would see businesses and insurers take on £2 million in asbestos costs.
New EPC regs in force
Small changes under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations, coming into effect this week, have pushed the public awareness of energy consumption forward, if only slightly.
Talking rubbish in FM
Whether the focus is cost reduction, resource efficiency, the environment or just more generally compliance, waste is a big topic in facilities management.
Workplace Law surveys the year
The experts at Workplace Law have assembled a series of interviews looking back over the past 12 months and forward to see how events may shape and influence the next 12.
Compliance gets top priority
Compliance is a big subject in facilities management demanding significant time and resource, often including specialist resources too. Inevitably, FMs are not short on ideas for how it could be better handled.
Keeping up with compliance requirements
The pace of change in regulations and obligations around the big topic of health & safety shows little sign of slackening.
CRC: £99K in fines for failing to report
If you ever questioned whether the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme had any teeth, or would use them, the answer is yes.
CRC, a work in progress
Controversial in the planning, often condemned in its execution and now subject to consultation and revision, the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme is still looking for the right structure to fulfil a purpose that seems unclear.
Cookie monster: our privacy policy is changing
From 26 May all UK websites that use cookies to capture and pass on user information must obtain user opt-in in line with the EU Directive on Privacy and Electronic Communications, otherwise known as the e-Privacy Directive.
RIDDOR rules change
From 6 April employers no longer have to report injuries which keep workers off normal duties for seven or fewer days.
Groups call for tougher line on energy efficiency
Eighteen businesses, green groups and professional bodies have come together to press Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Ed Davey to reconsider the UK's position on the draft European Energy Efficiency Directive.
CRC revisions aim to cut costs
Millions of pounds will be saved for businesses through ambitious new proposals to simplify the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme, DECC has declared.
CRC to be simplified, or scrapped
Amongst all the noise generated by the Chancellor's Budget announcements, Jones Lang LaSalle has noted that the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme is to be reviewed.
Legionnaires failure brings fine
Lanarkshire Health Board has been fined £24,000 for a breach under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, which led to a legionella outbreak at Hartwoodhill Hospital.
Lofstedt report published
The Lofstedt report has been published today, making 19 recommendations for the reform of health and safety, which the government has accepted.
H&S reform on the right track?
These are uncertain times for this key discipline as reviews seem to come and go, with at least some proposed change apparently driven by cost cutting and a dread of 'red tape'.
CRC deadline success for most
More than 90% of businesses covered under the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme have met the first reporting deadline, according to figures released by the Environment Agency.
Consultation opens on HSE cost recovery scheme
The HSE has today opened a three-month consultation on how cost recovery for intervention will work, having already agreed the underlying principle with Government.
CIBSE calls on Osborne to back DECs
CIBSE President Andy Ford has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, calling for the introduction of Display Energy Certificates in the commercial sector.
73% of employees unaware of H&S procedures
Three-quarters of employees questioned in a recent survey claimed to be 'unaware' of the health and safety procedures within their workplace.
CBI backs mandatory carbon reporting
In its submission to a DEFRA consultation on the measuring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions, the business organisation argues that mandatory carbon reporting would help firms monitor and manage their emissions effectively.
Learning to live with the CRC
The government programme formerly known as the Carbon Reduction Commitment has had a remarkably chequered history in its short life, but it is here to stay regardless.
ISS goes digital on illegal workers
ISS Facility Services is trialling new technologies to validate the right-to-work status of prospective employees with the introduction of state of the art document scanners, as used by the UK Border Agency in assessing the legitimacy of paperwork.
Huhne tightens focus on energy ratings
Energy and Climate Change Secretary Chris Huhne has responded to criticism of the government's apparently softening approach to green issues by announcing plans to introduce minimum energy efficiency standards that all landlords must meet.
Industry backs call to extend DECs
A long list of heavyweights in the property sector has joined forces to call on the government for an extension of the Display Energy Certificate regulations to commercial buildings.
ICO anniversary marked by new warning
One year on from the introduction of enhanced powers for the Information Commissioner's Office, information destruction company Shred-it is warning that all organisations must ensure the safety of personal information.
Doubt cast on carbon programmes
On the first anniversary of its implementation, more than two-fifths of UK businesses want the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme scrapped.
Make DECs mandatory, says UKGBC
The UK Green Building Council is calling for the mandatory display of an A to G rating for the energy efficiency of all non-residential buildings to drive efficiency, cut costs and encourage refurbishment.
OFT fines cut by 90%
The massive fines imposed by the Office of Fair Trading following an anti-competition investigation in the construction industry have been deemed 'excessive' on appeal.
First corporate manslaughter conviction
Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings has become the first company to be convicted of the new offence of corporate manslaughter.
Mears wins damages in Leeds dispute
Leeds Council will be ordered to pay damages to the social housing group after it was found to have breached tendering regulations.
Law questioned after London immigration arrests
A cleaning contractor operating in London's West End has reportedly been the latest business to fall foul of immigration legislation, as seven people were arrested during a morning raid targeting suspected illegal immigrants.
Air conditioning deadline looms
By law, all air conditioning systems of over 12kW should have received an energy efficiency inspection by 4 January 2011.
No plans to revise TUPE Regulations
The government has this week confirmed that it has no plans to revise the Transfer of Undertaking (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006, or 'TUPE Regulations' as they are commonly known.
CRC change heavily criticised
Amongst all the planned actions revealed in this week's Spending Review, changes to the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme have drawn some of the sharpest reactions across the built environment sector.
CRC non-compliance could be costly
Despite feedback that many organisations found it challenging to meet the September 30 registration deadline for the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, the hard work to remain compliant is actually just beginning.
Arguing the case for action on compliance
There has been no shortage of legislation around the issues of energy and sustainability in recent years. Implementation appears to have been reasonably successful; but it's also clear that there are big gaps in compliance enforcement.
Calls to re-design CRC second phase
The Committee on Climate Change, the independent advisory body, has recommended that the government think again about the Carbon Reduction Commitment energy efficiency scheme before the second phase comes into force.
Streamline regulations, CIBSE says
The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineering has responded to current government consultation by calling for building and energy performance regulations to be streamlined.
RIBA calls for building regs makeover
The Royal Institute of British Architects has damned existing building regulations as 'impenetrable and alienating'. They need to be simplified and rewritten in plain English, RIBA says.
All hands on DEC, says BSRIA
The built environment research and consultancy group has launched a campaign backing the roll-out of Display Energy Certificates to all buildings.
CRC deadline: think weeks earlier
The government has been reminding large energy users that the deadline for registration under the Carbon Reduction Commitment is 30 September. But if you have not started the process, it may already be too late, warns PwC.
CRC deadline approaching, businesses warned
New figures published by the Environment Agency show that over 1,200 organisations have already registered for the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme.
Industry ramps up compliance campaign
Over 50,000 building owners are breaking the law by failing to have their air conditioning systems inspected, and many thousands more will fall into the same trap next year.
Lost in the compliancy maze
Compliance is really quite simple, isn't it?
Time to take EPCs seriously
Much anticipated at the time, Energy Performance Certificates have failed to live up to their promise as a sustainability tool, partly as a result of lack of enforcement and partly as a result of the distractions of recession.
Staff transfer regs under review
Legislation surrounding the transfer of staff and health and safety is under review as part of the coalition government's broad look at potentially 'unnecessary' regulations.
EU legislation on energy efficient buildings published
The EU has published the new energy efficiency directive for buildings.
Most companies still don’t understand CRC rules
Research by green IT specialist Externus suggests that more than two-thirds of business professionals still have no idea whether or not their company will be affected by the Carbon Reduction Commitment.
HVCA backs compliance campaign
The Heating and Ventilating Contractors' Association has swung its weight behind the campaign backing action against non-compliance with new environmental regulations in buildings.
Finding an opportunity in carbon legislation
The newly introduced Carbon Reduction Commitment tends to get billed as a burden, even a threat, especially to those organisations that may have neglected to fully prepare for it.
CIBSE takes on the cost of non-compliance
The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers has launched a new campaign targeting the cost to both businesses and the environment of non-compliance with the Energy Performance in Buildings and F-Gas regulations.
Employees get right to training
From 1 April, staff in businesses that employ more than 250 people have the legal right to request time off for training.
Companies under-estimate cost of CRC
The newly introduced Carbon Reduction Commitment could add significant cost to the energy bills of big UK organisations, especially if they are poor performers on efficiency and emissions.
Businesses not ready for CRC launch
Nearly half of businesses set to participate in the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme are unclear on how to forecast their CO2 emissions and purchase carbon allowances, potentially exposing them to financial penalties.
Interserve offers CRC guide
With the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme due to swing into force from 1 April, the construction to services group has launched a new guide to help affected organisations understand what it all means.
Security firm fined for unlicensed staff
Security company Sabrewatch and its directors have been hit with heavy fines after being found guilty of deploying unlicensed security guards.
Cushman teams up for CRC initiative
Property specialist Cushman and Wakefield has joined forces with the Building Research Establishment to advise organisations on how to face up to the Carbon Reduction Commitment, which comes into force in April.
Stiffer sentencing still not enough, IOSH declares
While stiffer fines and punishments are now in effect for organisations found guilty of corporate manslaughter, the leading body for health and safety professionals believes new sentencing guidelines don’t go far enough.
Contractors offer CRC guidance
The Heating and Ventilating Contractors' Association and the Electrical Contractors’ Association have teamed up to publish basic guidance on the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme.
CRC and PFI: who pays the bills?
With the implementation of the Carbon Reduction Commitment looming on the horizon, a new issue has emerged: who is responsible for energy performance in a PFI building?
Workplace Law grows, opens in London
Compliance specialist Workplace Law Group has defied the recession by posting its best ever sales growth and acquiring new premises in the heart of the busy London legal district.
Plan now for CRC arrival
The Carbon Reduction Commitment, due to arrive in the spring, is set to have a big impact on many organisations yet remains something of a mystery.
Landlords are ignoring EPCs
More landlords than estimated are ignoring the requirement to obtain EPCs for properties currently for sale or to let, according to a survey in the southwest of England.
Corporate manslaughter fines should be £500,000+
Companies and organisations that cause death through gross breaches of care could face fines of more than £500,000 and be forced to make a statement about offences on their website.
Other shoe drops on bid-rigging issue
Following the OFT investigation into bid-rigging in the construction sector, which led to fines being imposed on over 100 companies, at least one local authority has decided to seek compensation from contractors.
Keeping up with compliance requirements
2009 is shaping up to be a busy year for legislation, both new and revised, that will impact on FMs.
CRC becomes a bit more user friendly
The Department of Energy and Climate Change has confirmed the final details of the Carbon Reduction Commitment. Next year's introduction will be less big bang and more smooth transition.
Required air con inspections not happening
The great majority of companies in the UK are failing to comply with the legal requirement to have air conditioning systems inspected, CIBSE warns.
Workplace Law unveils plan for environment conference
The Workplace Law group has confirmed plans for a new one-day conference designed for facilities managers who need to get to grips with the sustainability agenda.
HVCA damns 'non-compliance culture'
The UK's ability to meet its long-term environmental targets is already being jeopardising by widespread non-compliance with legislation designed to address the twin challenges of sustainability and carbon reduction.
BSIA backs licensing for in-house security
The British Security Industry Association has thrown its weight behind the concept of licensing in-house security personnel and is calling for evidence to support the case.
Strict obligations in forthcoming asbestos survey guidance
Revised HSE guidance for asbestos surveys is set to be introduced in the autumn.
High Court declares WEEE legal
A High Court judge has ruled that UK regulations governing the collection, treatment and recycling of electrical and electronic equipment are lawful and entirely consistent with the EU Directive.
Hardy FMs overcome snow to attend legal conference
More than 120 guests braved the recent bad weather to attend Workplace LawÕs FM Legal Update Conference and Dinner in Stansted, marking the 10th anniversary of the event.
Bank ordered to comply with accessibility law
In the first ruling of its kind, a judge has ordered the Royal Bank of Scotland to install a lift so that a wheelchair user can have the same access as any other customer.
Workplace Law to take on recession issue
Oliver Jones, CEO of the Asset Factor, has been signed up for a keynote presentation at Workplace Law's 10th Anniversary Facilities Management Legal Update Conference.
Need to know: FM legal update
So much to know; so little time. And in FM, that is especially true when it comes to the law.
Court upholds exclusion clause - are you covered?
The Court of Appeal has overturned a lower court's judgment in favour of a customer and ruled that the service provider's exclusion clause was reasonable, leaving the buyer with responsibility for losses.
Mixed views on new corporate manslaughter law
When the Corporate Manslaughter Act came into force earlier this month it was hailed as a 'new dawn for corporate accountability in the UK'. But is that the view of FMs and other frontline managers responsible for safety policy and practice?
Host of law changes in April
What is the beginning of April famous for, aside from April Fools' Day? That's right, it's also the time that the government makes legislative changes through a Common Commencement Date.
Changes in workplace law due in 2008
This year will see several key changes in legislation with important implications for employers. New regulations come into effect in employment law, health and safety and premises management.
New Companies Act: focus on people and environment
A new guide to help company directors implement their environmental and social obligations under The Companies Act has been launched today by The Corporate Responsibility Coalition (CORE).
Corporate manslaughter law due in April
A new offence of corporate manslaughter will come into force on 6 April next year, the Ministry of Justice has confirmed.
Confident of your legal position?
2007 will go down as a busy year on the legal front for FMs.
Employers confused over smoking ban
Employers are still unclear about how the smoking ban will affect their business according to the results of a survey from Workplace Law.
CDM regulations come into force
Following extensive consultation with the construction industry, the new Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 come in to force on Friday, 6 April.
Staying on the right side of the law
The Security Industry Authority's gung-ho approach to licensing has left some property owners and their FM companies in hot water.
Planning regs change to focus on design and accessibility
Changes to the local government planning system have ben introduced, following steps by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, to encourage improved building design and better accessibility for disabled people.
MEPs approve cross-border services law
The European MPs has voted to open up the EU services sector to cross-border competition, approving a watered down services directive by a significant majority.
Free DDA assessment advice on offer
Facilities managers can now take advantage of a free service designed to help them to meet part of their legal obligations to the Disability Discrimination Act.
Revised Building Regs will tackle climate change
Changes to Parts F and L of the Building Regulations, due in April 2006, and the implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive are expected to make a major contribution to the UK's commitment to combat climate change.
Fire Regs due to change
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order is expected to come into force in April 2006 and will replace most existing general fire safety legislation, advises BRE.
BSIA advises on Data Protection compliance
The British Security Industry Association has produced a guide to the Data Protection Act aimed at users of information destruction services.
New disability regulations coming
The Disability Discrimination Act is ten years old and Workplace Law will mark that milestone with September's 10th annual conference covering accessibility issues.
Guide to new waste regulations
Waste management firm Cory Environmental is offering a free guide that will help businesses to understand some of the complex new waste legislation and regulations that come into effect on 16 July.
DDA auditing software to be made available
Disability access consultancy Configure is offering its software, under licence, to enable organisations to carry out their own access audits. Until now, this innovative tool had only been used by Configure's own auditors.
RICS warns of 'foreign' loophole in draft corporate manslaughter bill
Companies registered outside the UK could escape prosecution under the draft corporate manslaughter bill according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
Survey shows most businesses back working time opt out
A survey by employment information and advice company Croner has found that eight out of ten businesses think limiting working hours would be bad for business.
Opinion divided over European Working Time ruling
Opinion is split on whether the European Parliament's recent decision to remove the right of UK workers to opt out of the 48-hour working week is a good thing.
More time to think about WEEE
Major parts of new EU law requiring businesses to recycle their old IT and telecoms equipment will not come into force in the UK until January 2006, the Department of Trade and Industry has announced.
New fire regulations next on the agenda
A new Fire Safety Bill, set to come into force in May, will add to directors' legislative burden.
Security licensing dates announced
The Security Industry Authority is to kick off the licensing process for four key sectors from January 10th.
Twelve months of law, regulation and policy in two days
The 6th Annual Facilities Management Legal Update Conference will take place in Cambridge on January 25-26, 2005.
New DDA guide advises on access control systems
A new guide to assist building occupiers in meeting the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act focuses on security issues.
BSIA calls for action on licensing - and warns of rising cost
The British Security Industry Association is urging both suppliers and clients to prepare now for new licensing requirements in 2006.
DWP starts count-down on DDA
With less than a month to go before changes to the Disability Discrimination Act come into force, businesses across the country need to make sure they're ready, according to the Department for Work and Pensions.
DDA guidance for retail environments launched
The British Retail Consortium and the Disability Rights Commission have teamed up to launch a practical guide designed to help retailers comply with Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act.
HSC joins criticism of draft EC directive
The Health and Safety Commission has responded to the draft EC directive on services in the internal market by supporting the idea but warning that enforcement will suffer unless changes are made.
Limiting working hours 'bad for business'
Britain is the only EU country where working hours have increased on average over the last decade. But according to a new survey, reversing this trend by limiting the number of hours worked could mean losing the UK's competitive edge.
Free DDA accessible building risk profile now available
The Workplace Law Group has an easy to complete survey which should help FMs assess how well they are doing with conforming with the new disability discrimination act regulations on building access.
Asbestos regulations loom
Owners and occupiers of commercial buildings risk penalties if they are not fully prepared for the new asbestos regulations that come into force on May 21, according to lawyers.
Jarvis cleared of document falsification allegations
Network Rail has concluded that there was no evidence that Jarvis deliberately falsified documents relating to stressing of rail certificates.
Online DDA assessment toolkit launched
The final part of the Disability Discrimination Act comes into effect in October. In anticipation, the Disability Rights Commission has developed an online appraisal package to help companies in thinking about changes that may need to be made.
Awareness of disability legislation still low
A new survey has found that many of Britain's businesses are still unaware of their legal obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act, the final part of which comes into force in October next year.
Crackdown on spam kicks in this October
Companies that target prospective customers and clients electronically will be targeted under new laws soon to be implemented, warn legal experts.
Secure information destruction: companies still not legal
Post-Enron, companies are still not complying with document shredding laws, says British Security Industry Association
TUC welcomes new temp rights
According to a leaked EU directive, temporary workers could be given the same pay and employment rights as long-term employees in similar jobs.
New Disability Code of Practice for service providers
The new Code of Practice on serving disabled customers, laid before Parliament this week, sets out service providers' current legal requirements and informs them of new duties that will come into force in October 2004.
New law for working parents
Working parents will receive more support after a new law has been introduced in Parliament, offering them a more balanced package.
Many managers still unsure about DDA
A new survey claims that many premises and facilities managers are still unsure of the full implications of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).
TUPE regulations: consultation paper on amendments published
The DTI has published its long-awaited consultation paper on amendments to the 1981 TUPE regulations. The proposals aim to ensure flexibility, fairness and the smooth management of the transfer.
Hewitt unveils TUPE proposals
Proposals to improve the law covering employees' rights when the business they work for transfers to a different employer have been announced by Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt.
New TUPE regulations expected by Christmas
UK legislation aimed at implementing a new EU Directive on business transfers, due to be introduced on 17 July 2001, has been delayed until around Christmas 2001.
Consignia takes Hays to court over disputed services
Consignia is taking legal action over what it describes as a ‘cream-skimming' mail service which it claims Hays is operating in contravention of the Postal Services Act.
Linklaters wins law prize
Linklaters & Alliance has carried off the Real Estate Team of the Year Award, sponsored by Countrywide Legal Indemnities, for its variety and strength in depth.
Short term workers to get annual leave
UK freelance and temp workers are entitled to four weeks paid holiday a year, ruled The European Court of Justice, a decision which disappointed the CBI but was welcomed by the TUC.
Fixed term contracts
Consultation on the draft Fixed-term Employees (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations has ended.
Tenant's intention not important in compensation claims
In certain cases, a business tenant whose tenancy is terminated may be entitled to recover compensation from his landlord.
Features - Search found 32 features
Building Safety Act: implications for FMs
April 6th sees the end of the transitional period, with far-reaching implications for projects where Building Regulations apply.
Cybersecurity: could your BMS be the weak link?
New pressures on office IT infrastructure could open the door to problems.
Potential trends and changes to workplaces
In the final instalment of this series examining the return to work post-shutdown in the UK, Faegre Drinker solicitors look at the potential trends and longer term changes that the Covid-19 pandemic will likely have on workplaces.
Addressing the economic impact of Covid-19
In this second instalment in a series examining the challenges UK employers are likely to face in the coming months, solicitors at Faegre Drinker look at how employers can manage the economic impact the pandemic will likely have on many workplaces.
Returning to work post-shutdown
The Covid-19 pandemic and the resultant lockdown have caused a massive shift in the way we work. The experts from international law firm Faegre Drinker examine the challenges UK employers are likely to face in the coming months.
Crunch time for business occupiers
No matter the sector, be it technology, finance, retail, manufacturing or any other, virtually all UK businesses rent their HQ and operational premises under commercial leases. Scott Keown offers some timely advice.
Q&A: Gender pay gap reporting
Gender pay reporting legislation kicked in this month. It's a new and potentially confusing area so we asked legal firm Steptoe & Johnson UK LLP to provide an overview and some insights into the requirements.
Water market deregulation: are you ready?
In April 2017, just like the transformation of the gas and electricity markets previously, water supply is set to become a competitive retail market as opposed to the current monopolistic approach.
Making energy efficiency work
Energy consumption is increasingly being understood but efficiency is the poor relation, often with only simple measures being deployed. Sunil Shah makes the case for a change of focus.
ESOS and what to do about it
If this is the first time that you have heard of ESOS, the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme, and you are a large enterprise then you might be in for a shock. Andrew Sparrow explains.
New Allergen Regulations: What They Mean in Practice
Wan Mak looks at the new regulations, why they are important and the challenges that they are bringing to the foodservice industry.
The End of Strict Liability?
We probably won't see an end to the concept of strict liability for many years to come, but things have changed. Robert Greenfield and Michael Morgan explain.
Risk-based Safety at Work
Amy Lyons looks at the emphasis on risk assessment in the new IET Code of Practice aimed at ensuring the safety of electrical equipment in the workplace.
Cost, Targets, Compliance
There are compelling business benefits for the FM sector in engaging with the waste and resource efficiency agenda.
Seasonal Opportunities
New European efficiency legislation for air conditioning systems coming into force next year may present opportunities for facilities managers.
Hiding Behind the Bins
Commercial waste management is one area of FM practice in which there is some confusion about the best solution – one which minimises environmental damage whilst ensuring value to the organisation.
Compliance Gets Recognition
Rob Greenfield argues that perceptions are finally changing for both clients and service providers.
Name of the Game
This autumn it's all about change as new legislation affecting the facilities management sector is open to consultation or coming into force.
A New Horizon for FMs
The waters surrounding health and safety legislation have been choppy of late. In their wake comes change for anyone responsible for reducing injuries and ill-health in the workplace.
Doing the Right Thing
One great benefit of the Paralympics is the regular boost this event gives to the issues surrounding disabilities, capabilities, prejudice and opportunities.
CRC: a Better Alternative?
The CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme was originally designed to provide incentives for companies to improve energy efficiency by directly rewarding energy savings.
Reducing the CRC Impact
The CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme (now officially 'formerly known as the Carbon Reduction Commitment') has certainly changed with the times.
Data Protection Hazards
Despite greater vigilance and strenuous efforts by businesses and the public sector, identity fraud is costing the UK £1.7bn a year.
Navigating the Complete Compliance Maze
In electrical safety alone, achieving compliance with myriad sources of legislation, British Standards and Approved Codes of Practice is a real challenge with plenty of pitfalls.
EPCs Set to Bite
With continued emphasis at UK and EU levels on going green, it won't be long before commercial Energy Performance Certificates are given some teeth.
CRC: Friend or Foe?
The Carbon Reduction Commitment is looming on the horizon. Implementation will be complex, and there's mixed news on preparation at many that will be affected.
FM Legal Update
From a legislative perspective 2009 could, like 2008, have been a quiet year. But that wasn't allowing for the return of Mandy.
Facilities Management Legal Update 2008
Claire Fuller writes: For once, there are only a few changes to workplace legislation set to come into force in 2008. However that does not mean there isn't a lot for facilities managers to be concerning themselves with legally over the next few months.
Contracts - Plan Ahead to Avoid Trouble
David Barker warns: All contracts come to an end, whether planned or unplanned. The time to think carefully about expectations and obligations is before you sign.
Are You a Responsible Person?
Richard Norman writes: Sweeping changes to fire safety legislation will come into force next year placing responsibility for preparing fire risk assessments and addressing identified risks squarely on the shoulders of a designated ‘responsible person'.
Facilities Management: Legal Update
Kelly Mansfield writes: sometimes you get those years when it all seems quiet on the legislative front. Other times you can't move for law, regulation and red tape.
What Every Supplier Should Know About FM and Outsourcing Contracts
Kiran Sandford offers some tips for suppliers to ensure that their FM and outsourcing contracts underpin a fruitful customer relationship and highlights some of the traps suppliers should avoid.
Comments - Search found 8 comments
Sewing up safety with the digital golden thread
The next deadline in the roll-out of the UK’s new building safety regulations is coming up fast.
Work and the workplace: what employers need to know
Employment solicitor Daniel Zona offers some advice on the rules covering hybrid and flexible working and how they might change.
Redressing the balance of power
For centuries, landlords have had the upper hand in the UK commercial property market.
Returning to the workplace: a matter of consent?
The subject of returning to work is on everyone's lips at the moment, following the relaxation in England of restrictions to control the spread of coronavirus.
Compliance: simpler than it sounds
Harrison Briggs discusses the ever-changing requirements around compliance in the built environment.
Outsourced workers' rights: what does the test case mean?
The facilities management industry is familiar with the use of outsourced workers, of course. Currently, collective bargaining can only take place with the direct employer of those workers. Could that change?
TUPE regulations: good in parts
On 31 January 2014, new regulations on TUPE came into effect updating the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006.
The road to compliance
When it comes to compliance, many businesses understand that servicing and maintenance are the priority but there is some confusion around what should or shouldn't be done as part of the programme.
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