Latest news with #RoSPA
Times of Oman
5 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Douglas OHI Secures RoSPA Gold Award for the Eighth Consecutive Year
Muscat: Douglas OHI has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to health and safety excellence by securing the prestigious RoSPA Gold Award for the eighth consecutive year. This significant achievement recognises Douglas OHI's ongoing efforts to uphold and continually improve health, safety, and wellbeing standards across all areas of its operations. The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards are among the most highly respected in the industry, attracting entries from organisations around the world and acknowledging excellence in risk control, accident prevention, and employee welfare. Commenting on the achievement, Aaron Hennessy, Group Managing Director, said: 'Receiving the RoSPA Gold Award for the eighth year running reflects our collective focus and dedication to embedding a proactive health and safety culture across the business. This award is a testament to the commitment of our people, whose vigilance and professionalism ensure we continue to meet the highest standards. I am extremely proud of our teams across the region.' Peter Baker, Regional HSSE Manager, added: 'Sustaining this level of recognition year after year requires more than compliance, it demands a consistent drive for improvement, engagement at all levels, and a shared responsibility for safety. This award reaffirms our ongoing investment in our people, processes, and the broader culture of care that underpins everything we do.' Douglas OHI's achievement reinforces its position as a leading contractor with a robust safety-first approach and a strong alignment with international best practices. The organisation continues to invest in its HSSE systems, training, and leadership to maintain and exceed industry standards.
Yahoo
02-08-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Safety advice for Scots as 'danger to life' warning issued for Storm Floris
STORM Floris will batter parts of the UK on Monday with unseasonably strong winds, the Met Office has announced. A yellow warning for wind has been issued for northern parts of the country from 6am on Monday to 6am on Tuesday. The latest named storm of 2025 will bring 'unusually windy weather' for this time of year and heavy rainfall is also forecast, the Met Office said. Many inland parts of the warning area will see westerly gusts of 40-50mph and exposed coasts and high ground could see them reach 70mph. There is a chance that winds could reach 85mph on Scottish coastlines and hills. READ MORE: The strongest winds will most likely affect Scotland on Monday afternoon and night but 'there remains some uncertainty in the depth and track of Floris', the Met Office said. It added: 'Winds will first ease in the west during later Monday but remaining very strong overnight until early Tuesday in the east. 'Heavy rain may also contribute to the disruption in places.' The warning zone covers Scotland, parts of Northern Ireland, north Wales and the north of England. How to stay safe amid Storm Floris Now, safety advice has been issued by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy at RoSPA, said: 'We understand how tempting it can be to stick with summer plans — whether it's a coastal walk, a camping trip, or a garden gathering — but Storm Floris presents real risks. "With strong winds and heavy rain forecast, we're urging everyone to take the yellow warning seriously. Simple steps like securing outdoor items, avoiding unnecessary travel, and checking on vulnerable neighbours can make a big difference in staying safe.' Here are some important safety tips to help you stay safe: Secure loose objects: Ensure that any loose items outside your home, such as garden furniture, are secured or brought indoors to prevent them from being blown away. Avoid travel: If possible, avoid traveling during the peak of the storm. If you must travel, check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. Stay indoors: Stay inside during the storm, especially during the yellow warning period from 06:00 Monday to 06:00 Tuesday. Prepare for power cuts: Have an emergency kit ready with essentials such as torches, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages. Stay away from windows: Keep away from windows and glass doors to avoid injury from flying debris. Charge your devices: Ensure your mobile phone and other essential devices are fully charged. Check on vulnerable neighbours: If it is safe to do so, ensure that they are secure and have everything they need. For more detailed advice on staying safe during strong winds, you can visit the Met Office's stay safe in storms page and the RoSPA website.
The National
02-08-2025
- Climate
- The National
Scotland weather: Safety advice issued for dangerous Storm Floris
A yellow warning for wind has been issued for northern parts of the country from 6am on Monday to 6am on Tuesday. The latest named storm of 2025 will bring 'unusually windy weather' for this time of year and heavy rainfall is also forecast, the Met Office said. Many inland parts of the warning area will see westerly gusts of 40-50mph and exposed coasts and high ground could see them reach 70mph. There is a chance that winds could reach 85mph on Scottish coastlines and hills. READ MORE: Plans submitted for new £20 million five-star hotel in St Andrews The strongest winds will most likely affect Scotland on Monday afternoon and night but 'there remains some uncertainty in the depth and track of Floris', the Met Office said. It added: 'Winds will first ease in the west during later Monday but remaining very strong overnight until early Tuesday in the east. 'Heavy rain may also contribute to the disruption in places.' The warning zone covers Scotland, parts of Northern Ireland, north Wales and the north of England. How to stay safe amid Storm Floris Now, safety advice has been issued by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy at RoSPA, said: 'We understand how tempting it can be to stick with summer plans — whether it's a coastal walk, a camping trip, or a garden gathering — but Storm Floris presents real risks. "With strong winds and heavy rain forecast, we're urging everyone to take the yellow warning seriously. Simple steps like securing outdoor items, avoiding unnecessary travel, and checking on vulnerable neighbours can make a big difference in staying safe.' Here are some important safety tips to help you stay safe: Secure loose objects: Ensure that any loose items outside your home, such as garden furniture, are secured or brought indoors to prevent them from being blown away. Avoid travel: If possible, avoid traveling during the peak of the storm. If you must travel, check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. Stay indoors: Stay inside during the storm, especially during the yellow warning period from 06:00 Monday to 06:00 Tuesday. Prepare for power cuts: Have an emergency kit ready with essentials such as torches, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages. Stay away from windows: Keep away from windows and glass doors to avoid injury from flying debris. Charge your devices: Ensure your mobile phone and other essential devices are fully charged. Check on vulnerable neighbours: If it is safe to do so, ensure that they are secure and have everything they need. For more detailed advice on staying safe during strong winds, you can visit the Met Office's stay safe in storms page and the RoSPA website.
Daily Record
29-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
How to avoid common garden hazards this summer according to experts
A study has shown around 300,000 people are injured in their gardens annually, with over 87,000 hurt while gardening or tackling outdoor projects and it's often these silent hazards that are the worst. As Brits bask in the summer weather, spending more time in their gardens, there's a particular hazard they need to be aware of. Experts caution that moss, algae and lichen, commonly found in gardens, are responsible for thousands of slips, trips and skin reactions each year. Research by RoSPA reveals that around 300,000 people suffer injuries in their gardens annually, with over 87,000 harmed while gardening or undertaking outdoor projects, and it's often these silent hazards that pose the greatest risk. Patio and garden maintenance expert Alex Essex from Patio Black Spot Removal has highlighted five of the most common hidden injury risks lurking in plain sight. The expert also offered some valuable advice on how to stay safe this summer while enjoying your garden, as reported by the Mirror. Slippery moss and algae One thing we have in abundance in the UK is rain, but these damp conditions promote the growth of moss, algae and lichen on patios, steps and paths, creating slick, slippery surfaces. These growths become particularly dangerous after rain or early morning dew, contributing to over 115,000 slips and falls in gardens each year. Prevention tips Regularly clean patios and paths to remove moss, algae and biofilm. Use slip-resistant paving or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas. Apply matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces. Inspect steps and shaded areas, where algae thrives. Repair uneven or sinking paving to prevent tripping hazards. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Lichen damage Despite its harmless appearance, lichen can trap moisture and gradually weaken patio surfaces, leading to uneven and unstable paving slabs. Over time, this can create trip hazards that may result in unexpected falls, particularly for elderly homeowners or young children who might not be as stable on their feet. Prevention tips Regularly check patios and steps following severe weather. Eliminate lichen accumulation before it harms the stonework. Avoid aggressive pressure washing, which can dislodge mortar joints. Thorned and spiked plants. Thorned and spiked plants Most garden enthusiasts will be familiar with the discomfort of a thorn prick, but according to a report, 483 individuals were hospitalised due to thorns, spikes and sharp leaves. Roses, brambles and shrubs may be attractive, but their sharp thorns can easily cause cuts and skin punctures. Prevention tips Maintain thorned plants by keeping them trimmed and well-managed. Always wear sturdy gloves and long sleeves. Exercise caution when using pruning tools on overgrown hedges or shrubs. Toxic plant sap Toxic plant sap can originate from common garden plants such as euphorbia, giant hogweed, and even fig trees. This sap can irritate the skin or cause blistering when exposed to sunlight, and it was discovered that 158 people required medical attention in 2023/24 due to exposure to toxic or harmful plants. Prevention tips Educate yourself to identify dangerous plants in your garden. Wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after contact. Seek medical advice if a rash or blistering appears. Overgrown plants and visibility While we all desire our plants to flourish, those that grow excessively not only appear untidy, but they can also hide trip hazards and obscure steps and edges, potentially leading to avoidable falls. Prevention tips Ensure walkways are free from overhanging plants. Prune shrubs that obstruct lighting or create dark, damp areas where algae can thrive. Frequently inspect for roots or shoots that may be lifting paving stones.
Daily Record
29-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Householders warned of silent garden dangers hospitalising thousands each year
Gardeners should be aware of silent hazards lurking outside. With summer fully underway, Scots will be spending more time outdoors, especially in their gardens. To prevent any unexpected injuries, experts are now warning gardeners of certain dangers to look out for. Moss, algae, and lichen, which are commonly found in gardens, are reportedly responsible for thousands of slips, trips, and skin reactions every year. A recent study by RoSPA showed that around 300,000 people are hurt in their gardens each year, with over 87,000 of them injured while gardening or carrying out outdoor projects. Silent hazards are often responsible for the injuries. Patio and garden maintenance expert Alex Essex from Patio Black Spot Removal has now told of hidden injury risks hiding in plain sight in your backyard. Alex also shared some top tips on how to stay safe this summer when enjoying your garden. Slippery moss and algae One thing we get plenty of in the UK is rain, but damp conditions encourage moss, algae, and lichen to build up on patios, steps, and paths, creating slick, slippery surfaces. These growths are especially hazardous after rain or early morning dew, contributing to over 115,000 slips and falls in gardens each year, reports the Mirror. Prevention tips: Clean patios and paths regularly to remove moss, algae and biofilm. Use slip-resistant paving or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas. Use matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces. Inspect steps and shaded areas, where algae thrives. Repair uneven or sinking paving to prevent tripping hazards. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Lichen damage Even though lichen looks harmless, it can trap moisture and slowly weaken patio surfaces, making paving slabs uneven and unstable. Over time, this creates trip hazards that can lead to sudden falls, especially for older homeowners or small children who may not be as steady on their feet. Prevention tips: Inspect patios and steps after extreme weather. Remove lichen build-up before it damages stonework. Avoid harsh pressure washing, which can loosen mortar joints. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Thorned and spiked plants Most gardeners will know the pain of being cut by a thorn - but according to a report, 483 people were hospitalised due to thorns, spikes and sharp leaves. Roses, brambles and shrubs may look pretty but their sharp thorns can cause cuts and skin punctures easily. Prevention tips: Keep thorned plants trimmed and well-managed. Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves. Be careful when using pruning tools on overgrown hedges or shrubs. Toxic plant sap Toxic plant sap can come from common garden plants, including euphorbia, giant hogweed, and even fig trees. When exposed to sunlight, this sap can irritate skin or even cause blistering. In 2023/24, 158 people needed medical attention from exposure to toxic or harmful plants. Prevention tips: Learn to recognise hazardous plants in your garden. Wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after contact. Seek medical advice if a rash or blistering develops. Overgrown plants and visibility While we all want our plants to thrive, those that become overgrown don't just look messy, they can also conceal trip hazards and cover steps and edges - which can result in unnecessary falls. Prevention tips: Keep pathways clear of overhanging plants. Trim shrubs that block lighting or create dark, damp spots where algae thrives. Regularly check for roots or shoots lifting paving stones.
