Workplace Guides

The Local Authorities will have an appointed Fire Officer, typically via a Fire and Rescue Services who will enforce fire safety legislation on business premises.

Fluorinated greenhouse gases (F gases) can significantly contribute to global warming if released into the atmosphere. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) are all types of F gas. The effect of these gases on our atmosphere, when released, is far greater than Carbon dioxide.

The costs associated with poor food safety are both financial and social, and can affect both employers and employees. You can measure the performance of your catering operation by carrying out an audit of the documentation, practices and procedures which occur during the delivery, storage, preparation, cooking, cooling and serving of hot and cold food.

A food allergy occurs because there is an immune response to specific foods. This response is activated because the immune system mistakes the protein in the food as a threat. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary from mild to severe and include swelling of the face, vomiting and itching. 

Formaldehyde is a colourless, strong smelling gas. It is widely used in the manufacture of building materials and numerous household products. There are two types of formaldehyde resin; urea formaldehyde (UF) and phenol formaldehyde (PF). Products made from both types release formaldehyde gas, the urea formaldehyde generally emitting higher levels.

Giardia spp. is a microscopic, protozoan parasite that lives in the intestines of infected people and animals. Contaminated faeces spread the organism, which can survive in the environment (for example water and soil) for months.

Giardia lamblia, also known as Giardia intestinalis or Giardia duodenalis, is a protozoan (single celled) parasite that colonises’ and reproduces in the small intestine. It is a common parasite in many domestic animals, but can also infect humans. Infection by this parasite causes giardiasis, which is the most common cause of gastrointestinal disease and “travellers’ diarrhoea”.

Health and Safety is a business function that together with the core business processes requires effective management. To assist businesses with this, the Health and Safety Executive have produced a guidance document, called 'Successful Health and Safety Management' (HSG65). This document aims to help leaders, owners and line managers.