HSE Launches Two Major Public Consultations
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened two significant public consultations that will shape the future of workplace health, safety and regulatory reporting across Great Britain. Employers, industry stakeholders, health practitioners and those working directly with lead or workplace incident reporting systems are encouraged to take part.
1. Consultation on Amendments to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 (CLAW)
HSE is seeking views on proposed updates to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations, with a focus on strengthening protections for workers exposed to lead. The consultation is particularly relevant to employers and sectors where lead is used or processed.
Key proposals include:
- Lowering and improving monitoring of blood lead exposure levels
- Updating the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and associated guidance
- Gathering evidence on ‘lead in air’ monitoring practices
The full consultation document, including detailed proposals and instructions on how to respond, is available on the HSE website here. Consultation closes: 24 May 2026
2. Consultation on Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR)
HSE has also launched a wide‑ranging consultation on modernising RIDDOR, the framework that governs how work‑related injuries, ill health and dangerous occurrences are reported.
The proposals aim to strengthen worker protection while reducing unnecessary administrative burdens on businesses. HSE is inviting feedback from employers, duty holders, self‑employed workers, healthcare practitioners and all sectors affected by incident reporting requirements.
Key areas under review include:
Legislative proposals
- Clarifying definitions where current terminology is unclear or ambiguous
- Updating the list of dangerous occurrences to reflect modern workplace risks
- Revising the list of reportable occupational diseases, including reintroducing previously removed conditions and adding new ones
- Expanding who can diagnose a reportable occupational disease, extending beyond GMC‑registered doctors to other registered health practitioners
Non‑legislative proposals
- Simplifying the online RIDDOR reporting form to improve usability and reduce both under‑ and over‑reporting
Rachael Radway, HSE’s Deputy Director of Regulation, emphasised the importance of accurate reporting in identifying emerging risks and guiding regulatory activity, encouraging all affected groups to contribute their views.
The full consultation document, including background information and guidance on submitting a response, is available here. Consultation closes: 30 June 2026
How to Take Part
Both consultations provide an important opportunity for stakeholders to influence future regulation and ensure that workplace health and safety systems remain effective, proportionate and aligned with modern practices.
Full details, including how to respond, can be found on the HSE website.
