Partnership raises awareness of risks for police drivers and roadworkers that arise from ‘blue light incursions’ Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is collaborating with the Police Federation of England & Wales (PFEW), the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and National Highways, to raise awareness of the dangers of ‘blue light
Modern workplaces are often designed to impress. Sleek open-plan layouts, glass balustrades, high-gloss finishes, polished concrete floors, and striking communal spaces are now standard. But while these environments are visually compelling, they often conceal hidden risks. According to a recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) survey*, an estimated 680,000 workers
Hertfordshire-based Ashe Group held a hard-hitting safety event across all its construction sites recently to remind workers to be vigilant to the safety risks. Health and safety is the top priority for Ashe and with workers returning after the Christmas break, the company wanted to start the new year with
Retention has become one of the defining challenges for UK construction firms in 2026. Long project cycles, skills shortages, and an ageing workforce are colliding with rising expectations from employees who want more than a competitive payslip. In this environment, simply paying more is rarely enough to keep people on
Pirtek UK & Ireland is encouraging businesses in hard hat sectors to put mental health at the centre of their plans for 2026. Research from Pirtek’s Under the Hard Hat campaign shows that 94% of workers in construction, engineering and related industries have experienced stress, anxiety or loneliness at work.
Local people in the communities around SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett are set to benefit from investment in careers advice, employability training and wellbeing support as part of a newly launched Community Investment Plan by SEGRO, the developer of the former Radlett Aerodrome site The plan was developed in partnership with
Commenting on the publication of the Keep Britain Working report yesterday, Peter McGettrick, Chairman of British Safety Council, said: “We welcome the Keep Britain Working report and its clear call for joined-up, systemic action to tackle the growing challenge of health-related economic inactivity. “For too long, issues linking long-term health
As World Mental Health Day today (10/10/25) highlights the importance of wellbeing across all workplaces, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is urging builders to make mental health a top priority. With construction workers continuing to face suicide rates three to four times the national average, the FMB is campaigning
Ideal Heating has confirmed its continued support for Andy’s Man Club (AMC), strengthening a partnership that puts men’s mental health front and centre – and uses Ideal’s reach in the trade to signpost men towards support. With more than 87,000 installers across the UK and a big presence in a
British Safety Council will hold its 15th Annual Conference on 14 October, with a theme of ‘Workplace Health, Safety and Wellbeing in an AI-enabled World’. The conference, sponsored by National Highways’ Driving for Better Business campaign, includes sessions with experts, thought leaders, and innovators shaping the future of workplace health, safety, and
Partnership raises awareness of risks for police drivers and roadworkers that arise from ‘blue light incursions’ Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is collaborating with the Police Federation of England & Wales (PFEW), the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and National Highways, to raise awareness of the dangers of ‘blue light incursions’ for road workers and the emergency services on motorways and major A roads. Blue light incursions occur when emergency vehicles enter restricted roadworks areas whilst attending emergencies. This can create risks for police officers and roadworkers who may be working in the area of an incursion. Costain has worked with the NPCC, the PFEW and National Highways, to produce an awareness video for police drivers. The video raises awareness of the risks police drivers face when entering restricted roadworks areas, and how they can minimise associated risks whilst maintaining the effectiveness of their response. It also highlights the risks to roadworkers within the traffic management area. Costain has applied its decades of experience in delivering road infrastructure and maintenance projects to the initiative, which also supports National Highways’ efforts to minimise the risk of incursions on the Strategic Road Network, which covers motorways and major A roads in England. Costain is working to develop versions of the video for the fire and ambulance services, as well as for frontline road workers. Andy Denman, Road Sector Director at Costain, said: “Improving health and safety underpins our best-in-class delivery of complex road schemes and maintenance projects, and we continuously work to eliminate harm and provide the safest possible working environment for our people. “Through our trusted, forward-thinking partnership with National Highways and other stakeholders, we have been able to significantly increase the awareness of the risks that can arise from incursions by police drivers. This will help to maximise their safe and effective response to emergencies and support a safer, more resilient road network.” Melanie Clarke OBE, Director of Health, Safety and Wellbeing at National Highways, said: “At National Highways, we care deeply about improving safety for our customers, our people and those in our supply chain. We are passionate about the importance of mental as well as physical health in achieving our vison of getting everyone home safe and well. “This initiative has a clear ambition to raise awareness of the risks associated with blue light incursions into roadworks from the perspective of the emergency services or roadworkers, and demonstrates a strong alignment to our vision of connecting the country safely and reliably.” Jo Shiner KPM, Chief Constable and Lead for Roads Policing, National Police Chiefs’ Council, said: “This initiative led by Costain is an outstanding demonstration of collaboration between the public and private sectors and aligns with the Department for Transport’s road safety strategy that sets out a clear path to improve road safety in the UK. “The video raises awareness of the dangers of ‘blue light’ driving within restricted roadworks areas, and most importantly, its purpose is to help keep emergency responders, roadworkers and members of the public safe.” Tim Rogers, National Pursuits and Driver Training Lead, the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “Officers routinely make rapid decisions in complex environments. This video supports that by setting out, in plain terms, why roadworks change the risk picture and how we can respond safely and consistently.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Modern workplaces are often designed to impress. Sleek open-plan layouts, glass balustrades, high-gloss finishes, polished concrete floors, and striking communal spaces are now standard. But while these environments are visually compelling, they often conceal hidden risks. According to a recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) survey*, an estimated 680,000 workers sustained non-fatal injuries at work last year, with slips, trips, and falls remaining the leading cause. These incidents carry significant operational and financial implications. Beyond the human cost, they impact productivity, drive up insurance claims, and create potential legal exposure. In today’s connected world, a single accident can be captured and shared widely, placing an organisation’s reputation under intense scrutiny. As workplaces evolve to support hybrid working, innovation, and employee experience, safety cannot be an afterthought. While design-forward features look impressive, they can increase the risk of slips and trips if not carefully managed. Leading organisations are now auditing high-traffic areas, implementing engineered anti-slip solutions, and ensuring that aesthetics and safety coexist, because a visually stunning workspace should never compromise wellbeing or operational integrity. The way people move through a workplace increasingly shapes perceptions of the space and the organisation itself. Executed correctly, this creates a safer, more trusted, and more productive environment. Executed poorly, one misstep can become a very public and costly issue. Thermapply Group, specialists in engineered anti-slip systems, is urging organisations to reassess how flooring, stairways, and walkways are designed and maintained. Mike King, Co-MD of Thermapply Group, comments, “Modern workplaces are increasingly design-led and visually striking, but if spaces aren’t engineered for how people actually move, slip, trip, and fall risks grow unnoticed. When accidents happen, they’re no longer just a facilities or HR concern; they become a serious reputational and operational issue.” Investing in culture and employee experience is essential, but the physical environment is equally strategic. Safety is no longer merely a compliance requirement; it is a visible indicator of organisational standards and commitment to people. Thermapply Group’s patented Thermagrip anti-slip system is being utilised across industrial, commercial, and public environments, keeping high-traffic areas safe, durable, and seamlessly integrated into design-led spaces. Forward-thinking organisations now recognise underfoot safety as a core component of operational performance, brand credibility, and risk management, not just routine maintenance. To find out more, visit www.thermapply.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hertfordshire-based Ashe Group held a hard-hitting safety event across all its construction sites recently to remind workers to be vigilant to the safety risks. Health and safety is the top priority for Ashe and with workers returning after the Christmas break, the company wanted to start the new year with the focus firmly on the health and safety of all those involved in its projects. The Stand Down for Safety event saw all of Ashe Construction and Ashe Roofing’s sites stop work simultaneously for an hour to watch a hard-hitting safety talk by motivational speaker, Paul Blanchard. Paul spoke emotionally about a life-changing injury 15 years ago which left him paraplegic and wheelchair bound. Paul reminded everyone not to be complacent and explained that despite being an experienced builder and trained in health and safety, he made the fateful decision to work at height without assessing the risks and fell 12 feet. He described the toll his accident has taken on him and his family. Paul is now an ambassador for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Ian Berrie, health and safety manager for Ashe explained that following the success of a similar event last year it was important to keep up the momentum. He said: “It’s very easy to return to work after the two-week break and forget about the safety of not just yourself but of your colleagues and co-workers. That’s why we felt that the new year was the ideal time to remind everyone of their responsibilities.” Each Ashe site invited all those involved in their project including subcontractors, consultants, clients and building users to get involved. Around 250 people attended the event. Ashe’s construction and quality director, Justin Howard, is responsible for health and safety and introduced the event from the University of Hertfordshire where Ashe is working on a number of contracts, he said: “Safety is not just a priority, it’s a core value that defines everything we do. “Today’s stand down was a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a real person, a real family, and a real story. Hearing first hand from someone who suffered a life-changing injury reinforces why we must never become complacent. “By pausing work at 25 projects across Ashe Group, we demonstrated our collective commitment to protecting lives and ensuring every individual goes home safe, every day. This is what true leadership in construction looks like.” The stark statistics According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE): Mark Bellchambers, director at subcontractor, Bellwood Interiors, attended the event and said: “It’s an excellent and worthwhile event that Ashe arranges each year. It’s important to hear these stories from the people who have been impacted by accidents during construction works. I have no doubt Paul’s message will hit home with everyone who attended and highlight the importance of working safely on site.” Julian Bulubenchi, director at Leidon Civil Engineering, attended the event with three of his team at Ashe’s Journeys Academy site in Hertfordshire. He said: “The session was both thought-provoking and emotional, reinforcing the importance of treating safety as a personal responsibility at all times. Paul’s message resonated strongly with everyone, encouraging us to look out not only for our own safety but also for the safety of those around us.” Ashe’s safety standards are scrutinised through regular independent assessments of processes and performance. Read about Ashe’s approach to health and safety here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Retention has become one of the defining challenges for UK construction firms in 2026. Long project cycles, skills shortages, and an ageing workforce are colliding with rising expectations from employees who want more than a competitive payslip. In this environment, simply paying more is rarely enough to keep people on site or in the office. What’s changing is how firms think about value. Wellbeing, once treated as a “nice to have”, is now being folded into core business strategy. Contractors and developers are discovering that the right mix of support, flexibility, and trust can be just as powerful as financial incentives when it comes to loyalty. Retention Pressures Across Construction The labour market remains tight, particularly for experienced trades and technical professionals. Projects are becoming more complex, while the pipeline of new entrants struggles to keep pace. When skilled workers leave, the cost isn’t limited to recruitment fees; productivity dips, knowledge walks out the door, and programmes are disrupted. Many firms have realised that churn is often linked to burnout rather than pay alone. Long hours, unpredictable schedules, and time away from family all take their toll. Against that backdrop, wellbeing has shifted from a peripheral HR concern to a frontline retention tool. Broadening Definitions Of Wellbeing Wellbeing strategies in construction are no longer confined to physical safety or occasional toolbox talks. They now extend into mental health support, flexible working arrangements, and a more open approach to how people balance work with life beyond the job. That broader definition reflects changing attitudes to autonomy. Employees increasingly expect employers to respect how they manage their own time and leisure, whether that’s choosing when to work remotely or how they unwind digitally. From fitness apps to online entertainment options like non GamStop online casinos, flexibility and self-directed leisure are increasingly becoming the norm. Workers value control over how they switch off and employers are beginning to respect and recognise that. Within construction, this mindset has encouraged firms to offer benefits menus rather than one-size-fits-all packages. Support might include access to counselling, adjusted start times, or additional leave during quieter periods. The common thread is trust, and that trust can be a powerful retention lever. Impacts On Productivity And Loyalty The business case for wellbeing is becoming harder to ignore. A growing body of industry reporting shows that firms investing in structured programmes are seeing tangible returns. It was found that 71% of UK construction employees found employee benefit schemes such as gym memberships appealing. Retention is only part of the story. Morale and productivity tend to rise when people feel supported rather than stretched to breaking point. Higher satisfaction often translates into fewer absences and more consistent performance on site. In fact, it’s thought that employers can expect to see up to a 20% increase in productivity if they offer employees effective wellbeing programmes. There’s also the benefit of lower turnover across sectors, including construction. For project-led businesses, even marginal gains in consistency can have an outsized impact on delivery. What This Means For Employers For employers, the message is clear: wellbeing is no longer a soft issue. It sits alongside safety, quality, and programme certainty as a driver of competitiveness. Firms that embed wellbeing into everyday operations are better placed to attract scarce skills and keep them engaged over the long term. That doesn’t mean copying generic perks from other industries. Construction has its own rhythms and pressures, so effective strategies tend to be practical and grounded. Clear communication around workloads, genuine flexibility where roles allow, and visible leadership commitment often matter more than flashy benefits. There’s also a reputational dimension. As clients and partners place greater emphasis on social value, how a company treats its workforce increasingly shapes how it’s perceived. Wellbeing initiatives can therefore support bids and frameworks, not just internal culture. Ultimately, retention in UK construction is being reshaped by a simple idea: people stay where they feel valued. Pay will always matter, but in a crowded labour market, it’s the everyday experience of work that often makes the difference. For firms willing to invest thoughtfully, wellbeing is proving to be less about cost and more about long-term resilience.
Pirtek UK & Ireland is encouraging businesses in hard hat sectors to put mental health at the centre of their plans for 2026. Research from Pirtek’s Under the Hard Hat campaign shows that 94% of workers in construction, engineering and related industries have experienced stress, anxiety or loneliness at work. One in seven have had suicidal thoughts, and mental health-related absence is more than three times the national average. Despite these figures, more than 40% of workers say their employer offers no mental health support or they are unaware of any available resources. This silence is costing lives. Pirtek is calling on business leaders to act now and embed mental health into everyday operations, not just annual initiatives. Pirtek’s Managing Director, Adam Burrows argues that culture change starts at the top. When senior figures speak openly about their own experiences, it sends a powerful signal that vulnerability is not weakness. Informal check-ins during briefings or over coffee can help spot early signs of struggle. Leaders who make mental health part of daily conversation create workplaces where honesty feels safe. Five actions for franchise businesses Mental health issues rarely appear overnight. Regular, informal check-ins can help spot signs before they escalate. Toolbox talks are an effective way to open dialogue, but they don’t need to be formal. A five-minute chat at the start of a shift can make a difference. Businesses should encourage managers to ask open questions and listen without judgement. Employers already assess physical risks, yet mental health risks such as fatigue, isolation and high-pressure workloads are just as real. Include mental wellbeing in risk assessments and health and safety strategies. Make it clear that mental health is part of the duty of care, not an optional extra. Resources only work if people know they exist and feel safe using them. Display information in communal areas, mention it during team meetings and include it in payslips. Promote confidentiality and reassure staff that seeking help will not affect job security. When support becomes part of everyday language, stigma begins to fade. The ‘man up’ mentality still exists, but it’s fading. Businesses can help to accelerate that shift by encouraging peer support and celebrating openness. They can also share stories from leaders and colleagues who have faced challenges and make it clear that looking out for each other is part of the job, not a favour. With NHS wait times for mental health support continuing to grow, workplaces need alternatives. Signpost services like Andy’s Man Club, Hub of Hope and the BreakPoint Academy. Consider introducing mental health first aiders, employee assistance programmes or informal peer networks. The more options people have, the more likely they are to reach out before reaching crisis point. Pirtek’s Managing Director, Adam Burrows, says: “Industrial leaders have a duty of care that goes beyond physical safety. Mental health must be treated with the same seriousness. Awareness is only the beginning, what matters is what we choose to do next.” For more insights and practical advice, listen to Pirtek’s Under the Hard Hat podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXvlHSCdM9g Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Local people in the communities around SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett are set to benefit from investment in careers advice, employability training and wellbeing support as part of a newly launched Community Investment Plan by SEGRO, the developer of the former Radlett Aerodrome site The plan was developed in partnership with seven community and education partners – Communities 1st, Emmaus, Mind in Herts, St Albans Foodbank, Citizens Advice Bureau, Oaklands College and SmallPeice Trust – to improve social inclusion and community wellbeing. The Community Investment Plan, which will be funded by SEGRO and supported by its suppliers and future customers, aims to achieve the following outcomes by the end of 2028: 1,000 students, including young people from local schools such as Batchwood and Links Academy, will benefit from a coordinated programme of careers advice, STEM and skills-based initiatives. SEGRO and its partners will help inspire young people to pursue rewarding careers in construction and logistics through career workshops, specialist insights and site visits. 300 local unemployed people supported through targeted employment and skills services. Working alongside local community partners, the programme will include volunteering opportunities, as well as helping participants build confidence, enhance digital skills and access routes into long-term, sustainable work. SEGRO is also funding a new CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) training centre at Oaklands College that will enable 650 construction learners and 120 adults seeking a job in the sector to prove they have the necessary training, qualifications and competence to work on a site. More than 300 residents will benefit from initiatives promoting physical and mental wellbeing, including expanded access to health and counselling services, nutrition and lifestyle workshops, and targeted support for those experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. Neil Impiazzi, Partnership Development Director, at SEGRO, said: “Through the Community Investment Plan, we want to create a lasting, positive change by supporting local people into employment, inspiring young people about careers in construction and logistics, and improving wellbeing across the community living area around SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett. “We know from our conversations with community partners there is increasing demand for their services from vulnerable members of the local community, and we’re happy to work in partnership to ensure we are benefitting residents that really need our support.” The Community Investment Plan covering the St Albans area forms part of SEGRO’s broader commitment to Invest in local communities and environments, boosting skills, training and employment, in the communities where it operates across the UK and Continental Europe. It builds on a series of pilot initiatives launched in 2024, including careers workshops and site visits for local students, as well as funding for educational equipment at Batchwood School and Links Academy. The success of the Community Investment Plan relies on collaboration, and the community partners are central to delivering programmes and initiatives that will have meaningful positive impact. Stephen Craker, Chief Executive, Communities 1st, said: “Our aim is to strengthen opportunities for people in the south of the district. SEGRO’s Community Investment Plan will enable the St Albans Community Partnership to extend practical help for those who will benefit from tailored training, structured pathways into work and wider wellbeing support. It will reinforce existing community networks and help create long-term prospects for local residents.” Chloe Hawkins, Director of Adult & Work Based Training, Oaklands College, said: “We’re delighted to partner with SEGRO on this initiative which will directly support our construction students and adult learners in a sector which is important to both our organisations. The new CSCS training centre it will fund will give more local people access to the essential qualifications they need to work safely and confidently on site, helping them take the next step in their careers and supporting the wider construction sector across our community.” SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett will deliver 335,000 sq m of state-of-the-art, sustainable logistics space, enabled by a Strategic Rail Freight Interchange on site, set within in 600 acres of managed woodland, conservation grazing and public country park. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commenting on the publication of the Keep Britain Working report yesterday, Peter McGettrick, Chairman of British Safety Council, said: “We welcome the Keep Britain Working report and its clear call for joined-up, systemic action to tackle the growing challenge of health-related economic inactivity. “For too long, issues linking long-term health conditions, disabilities and economic inactivity have been treated in isolation, when in fact they are deeply connected. The proposed ‘Healthy Working Lifecycle’ offers a practical roadmap to help employers of all sizes build healthier, more inclusive and more productive workplaces. “We particularly support the emphasis on prevention, early intervention and shared responsibility between government, employers and individuals. These principles align strongly with our own mission to create safer, healthier working lives for everyone, and health, safety and wellbeing professionals are a vital part of the solution. “Challenges do remain in terms of turning the report’s recommendations into a reality, which will require commitment, collaboration and sustained investment. It rightly highlights the fit note, statutory sick pay, and wider government support as key areas of focus. Proposals for a single data and intelligence body and new standards are welcome, and the prize is worth it: a thriving workforce, reduced pressure on our health system, and a stronger economy built on wellbeing at work.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As World Mental Health Day today (10/10/25) highlights the importance of wellbeing across all workplaces, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is urging builders to make mental health a top priority. With construction workers continuing to face suicide rates three to four times the national average, the FMB is campaigning for cultural change where open conversations and support become embedded in everyday work life. Long hours, a lack of job security, physical demands and a culture that has been historically less familiar with the idea of asking for help. As charity partners with the Lighthouse Charity, the FMB is reminding builders that they and their families can access their vital support services. This includes a confidential 24/7 helpline (0345 605 1956), counselling, emergency financial aid, and tailored wellbeing resources designed for the pressures of the construction sector. Brian Berry, FMB Chief Executive, said:“Mental Health in the construction sector is a topic that needs to be discussed much more within industry and beyond. The construction sector is built on teamwork and trust, and these values must extend to how we handle mental health. World Mental Health Day is a reminder that too many builders are still facing these challenges – caused by tough, physically demanding working conditions alone. Every small building business has a duty to prioritise mental wellbeing. It’s only through leadership, open discussion and action that we can create a safer, healthier construction sector – that encourages those who need help, to ask for it.” The FMB has partnered with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) for a podcast episode dedicated to the issue of mental health. It features the FMB’s award-winning member Dorian Bowen, alongside the FMB’s CEO Brian Berry. The episode discusses findings from the CIOB’ Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 report and offers practical advice for builders and business owners across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ideal Heating has confirmed its continued support for Andy’s Man Club (AMC), strengthening a partnership that puts men’s mental health front and centre – and uses Ideal’s reach in the trade to signpost men towards support. With more than 87,000 installers across the UK and a big presence in a male-dominated industry, Ideal Heating is in a unique position to help start conversations that many men find hard to begin. This autumn, Ideal is running a nationwide programme of activity to encourage conversation and raise funds for men’s mental and physical wellbeing – with installers and Ideal’s own teams all getting involved. AMC is a men’s suicide-prevention charity with a simple but powerful message: It’s Okay to Talk. The organisation runs more than 300 free peer-to-peer support groups every Monday evening, in person and online. Thousands of men attend each week, making AMC one of the fastest-growing movements for men’s mental health in the UK. Championing conversations with trade counter events Throughout October, Ideal’s Area Sales Managers will host Mental Health Awareness Days at trade counters in partnership with AMC. Installers visiting participating branches will be able to meet AMC reps, pick up information and resources, and join light-hearted activities designed to break the ice and open conversations. We’ll also be highlighting our ongoing support for Andy’s Man Club and making sure installers know where to turn if they or someone they know needs help. To find out more about where to access these events and other mental health resources, visit the blog: Backing the Boys: Our Nationwide Autumn Campaign with Andy’s Man Club. Movember activity In November, Ideal will go all-in for Movember, raising funds for both AMC and Prostate Cancer UK. Installers can join the Mo Wall of Fame by snapping a moustache selfie – real or stick-on – at trade counters across the country. The Ideal team will also take on a Move for Movember challenge, completing 100 miles in Movember, by walking, running and even stair climbs – raising awareness and funds for men’s mental and physical health. You can support the fundraising by donating here. Lucas Whitehead, Head of Marketing and Partnerships at Andy’s Man Club, said: “Support from companies like Ideal Heating helps us reach more men across the country. Every flyer handed out, every chat at a trade counter and every moustache photo shared makes it easier for men to talk. It really does make a difference.” The partnership runs year-round, with Ideal and AMC continuing to look for new ways to reach installers, employees and communities with the message: It’s Okay to Talk. Ideal’s Head of Marketing, Luke Pykett said: “We’ve supported Andy’s Man Club for years, and that commitment hasn’t changed. By teaming up with AMC and adding Movember activity, we’re backing men’s mental and physical health across the trade. Installers are at the heart of what we do, and we want to use our platform to make a real difference – raising awareness, encouraging open conversations and raising vital funds. That’s ideal.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
British Safety Council will hold its 15th Annual Conference on 14 October, with a theme of ‘Workplace Health, Safety and Wellbeing in an AI-enabled World’. The conference, sponsored by National Highways’ Driving for Better Business campaign, includes sessions with experts, thought leaders, and innovators shaping the future of workplace health, safety, and wellbeing in an era defined by artificial intelligence (AI). These include speakers from the Health and Safety Executive, BSI, Institute for Employment Studies, Microsoft, HandsHQ, Pinsent Masons and Ward Hadaway LLP, as well as the Universities of Surrey and East London. Chaired by Steve Ward, British Safety Council’s IT Director, the full-day event will be held online and is free to attend. Highlights will include discussions and presentations on emerging risks, threats and opportunities that artificial intelligence presents when managing people’s psychosocial safety at work, how best to manage these and what health and safety professionals need to know when planning, implementing and managing the technology. Conference delegates will explore the importance of upskilling and training people to ensure they can make the most of new and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and how best to do this, as well as hear about latest legal developments around artificial intelligence, technology and look at the future direction of travel for the law on AI and health, safety and wellbeing at work. The full line-up of speakers and presentations can be found here. Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of British Safety Council, said: “We are excited to be holding our Annual Conference online, and making it a free event once again. With this year’s theme of workplace health, safety and wellbeing in an AI-enabled world, we will explore the critical intersections between technology and human-centred workplace practices, and focus on culture, leadership, legal frameworks, and future readiness. “Join us on 14 October for strategic insights, practical tools, and a collaborative space for preparing workplaces to thrive in the age of AI.” Attendees to this free event will gain insight into how AI is reshaping risk, roles, and responsibilities, from automation to ethical AI use in workplace health and safety. They will explore how organisational culture can support psychological safety, inclusion, and human connection amid digital transformation, gain knowledge and strategies to anticipate emerging challenges and harness the benefits of AI responsibly and hear from influential leaders on how to guide teams with empathy and clarity in a rapidly changing landscape. The full agenda and link to register for free is here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals