Since last writing, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Working at Height was pleased to hold its Annual General Meeting, and first virtual session of 2021, on Tuesday 20 April. This saw fantastic support from cross-party politicians, who returned as officers of the Group, including Alison Thewliss MP (SNP, Glasgow Central) who continues as Chair.

The focus for the session was the new campaign launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Discovering Safety, which aims to deliver health and safety benefits through a “data-driven global community”. The Group were fortunate to secure Sarah Newton, Chair of the HSE as a guest speaker, who was joined by Dr Helen Balmforth, Project Director for the Discovering Safety campaign.

Using data insights, the HSE hope to improve health and safety performance and reduce workplace deaths. Sarah Newton explained that the success of the campaign will depend on partnerships with academia and industry, combining scientific expertise and knowledge, to ensure the HSE remain proactive rather than reactive. She encouraged attendees to get in touch with the HSE via the dedicated Discovering Safety website to identify how they can become involved.

The HSE has already completed phase one of the campaign, which looked at proving the concept. The second phase will develop sustainable outputs and is focused on construction. Phase three, due to start in 2022, will focus on maximising reach with other sectors. To read the full minutes of this meeting or for more information, please visit the APPG website.

The next meeting of the Group will be held prior to the summer recess in Parliament and the No Falls Foundation will be presenting on the No Falls Charter. APPG proceedings are expected to continue online until at least the end of June.

If you’d like to find out more or sign-up to the mailing list, please email appgworkingatheight@connectpa.co.uk.