HSE Chair Calls for Major Shift in Workplace Wellbeing Approach

As the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) redefines its priorities, a powerful message has emerged from the very top: workplace health must take centre stage. At the HSE Prevention Summit 2024, held in London on the 20th of November, Chair Sarah Newton delivered a compelling call for action - employers must do more to prevent ill health caused by work.

This marks a critical turning point for occupational health across the UK, as the HSE intensifies efforts to address a long-standing imbalance where traditional safety risks have overshadowed employee wellbeing.

Why This Matters Now

According to the HSE Business Plan 2024–2025, the regulator is committed to using “the full range of regulatory levers” to reduce the burden of work-related ill health. With issues like musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory risks, and mental health problems continuing to rise, the need for urgent intervention is clear.

At the Prevention Summit, key industry leaders - including representatives from construction, healthcare, emergency services, and energy sectors - gathered to explore practical ways to prevent and manage health risks at work. Carl Bartlett, Director of Certification Services at HAE EHA, summed up the mood:

“Similar challenges were identified across a variety of sectors, highlighting the need for a harmonised and consistent approach.”

What Employers Should Do Now: 3 Key Actions

HSE Chair Sarah Newton emphasised three pivotal steps employers should take immediately:

1. Implement Suitable Health Surveillance

Health surveillance is not one-size-fits-all. Employers must assess workplace exposures and regularly monitor employee health, adapting programmes as roles, risks, and work environments evolve. It should be an ongoing conversation, not a tick-box exercise.

2. Tackle Work-Related Stress Proactively

Stress, depression, and anxiety accounted for over 50% of all work-related ill health in recent HSE statistics. The British Psychological Society and other professional bodies support HSE’s call to re-evaluate how stress is identified and managed. This includes risk assessments, mental health support systems, and leadership training.

3. Foster Industry-Wide Collaboration

The summit’s collaborative spirit was clear. Whether through formal networks like SWITCH Forum or informal best-practice exchanges, sharing what works is essential. A collective approach leads to scalable, sustainable change.

Final Thoughts

The HSE’s message is clear: we must move beyond compliance and toward prevention. Work should not make people ill. With the right tools, collaboration, and leadership, we can create safer, healthier workplaces for everyone.

If your organisation is looking to strengthen its occupational health strategy, our experts are here to help. From bespoke health surveillance to mental wellbeing solutions, we’re your partner in building a healthier workforce.

Want Support Implementing These Changes?

Contact us today at businessdevelopment@tachealthcare.com or give us a call at 0333 014 3488.