Which? updates its guide on ear protection

An updated guide by consumer organization Which? looks at how to protect people’s ears. They focus on two main types of ear protection, earplugs and ear defenders.  

The review also calls for more cooperation between the HSE, the Departments of Health and Social Care, and the DWP to develop health and well-being initiatives, including better enforcement guidance.
 
While the HSE's updated business plan emphasizes improvements in workplace health and safety, the review supposes that more needs to be done. It acknowledges that the HSE requires more funding to be able to take major steps in improving health and safety in the workplace.
 
Fiona Cameron of lawyers Pinsent Masons commented on the review, stating that it sets out some well-reasoned recommendations for the HSE. She believes that the HSE should take on a bigger role in improving health and safety by using its enforcement powers to compel a health and safety culture change in organizations.
 
The HSE has several roles, including being an enforcement organization. It publishes guidance on health and safety matters such as the use of PPE (personal protective equipment), safety, training and the dangers of working in hazardous environments. The HSE liaises with other industry health and safety stakeholders, such as the Office for Nuclear Regulation, to develop best health and safety practices. These various roles mean that there are perhaps too many demands on the HSE which cannot be fully addressed due to a lack of financial resources.