ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 1 April 2019 - 31 March 2020

Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland CONTROLLING RISK TOGETHER

Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland

Annual Report and Accounts For the year ended 31 March 2020

Laid before the Northern Ireland Assembly under paragraph 19 (3) of Schedule 2 of the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 by the Department for the Economy

OGL 23 October 2020

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Annual Report 2019–2020 3 Key Facts and Figures for 2019 - 2020

Key trends in work-related injuries are as • dealt with 1,110 complaints about alleged follows: unsatisfactory working conditions and activities; • fatalities within areas under the responsibility of HSENI down by 2 to 11 (P)1 , compared • prepared three sets of Northern Ireland to 13 2 in the previous year; Statutory Rules, initiated one consultation and developed two Agency Agreements; • fatalities in the agriculture sector reduced significantly from seven to one fatality in this • submitted an Annual Equality Report to the sector in 2019-20; Equality Commission;

• fatalities in the construction sector increased • organised four key events. from three in 2018-19 to four during this reporting period ; 1. Balmoral Show, Balmoral Park, Lisburn – 15-18 May 2019; • major injuries down 11% on last year to 290; and 2. Managing Work-Related Stress, The Management Standards Approach, • all reportable injuries down by 5% on last year Ladas Drive – 12 June 2019; to 1,811. 3. Workplace Health Leadership Conference, During the year, HSENI: La Mon Hotel, Belfast - 20-21 November 2019; and • continued its Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) work through the third Farm Safety Action Plan 4. Waste Industry Safety & Health Forum NI and the FSP Affiliate Scheme; (WISHNI) Awards, Malone House, Belfast – 11 March 2020; • reached over 9,000 children in 88 rural primary schools with its “Be Aware Kids” farm safety • held or attended 101 promotional events messages; including seminars, lectures, workshops and presentations, with 145 published materials; • involved over 3,300 pupils from 72 primary schools in its Child Safety on Farms Poster • distributed over 18,499 free publications giving competition and distributed 42,000 copies health and safety advice; of the calendar produced from the winning entries; • dealt with 6,444 calls for information via its Freephone Helpline; and • completed 14 successful prosecutions, which saw fines totalling £602,500; • enabled website visitors to download over 99,663 publication files. • achieved UKAS Accreditation for its Scientific Services Unit;

• delivered 5,399 inspections and served 247 formal enforcement notices;

1 (P)These figures do not include fatalities where the investigation has not yet established details to make a decision on their inclusion 2 This figure has been increased to reflect one further fatality confirmed retrospectively for the 2018-19 period

Annual Report 2019–2020 5 Contents

Key Facts And Figures For 2019-20 5 Statement Of Accounts 79 • Statement of Comprehensive Net Expenditure 79 Foreword 8 • Statement of Financial Position 80 • Statement of Cash Flows 81 Performance Report 10 • Statement of Changes in Taxpayers’ Equity 82 • Performance Overview 10 • Notes to the Executive’s Accounts 83 • Non-Executive Director’s Report 12 • Management Commentary 14 - Communications 14 Appendices - Employment Medical Advisory Service 17 Appendix 1: HSENI Organisation Structure 93 - Agriculture and Food 18 Appendix 2: Fatal Injuries 94 - Construction 20 Appendix 3: Prosecutions 96 - Extractive Industries and Waste 22 Appendix 4: Performance Analysis 98 - Major Hazards, Gas and Transport 25 - Manufacturing, Utilities and Docks 27 - Major Investigation Team 28 - Public Sector 29 - Product Safety 31 - Occupational Health and Hygiene Group 33 - Health and Safety at Work Legislation 36 - Case Management System 38 - The impact of EU Exit on HSENI’s activity and outcomes 39 - The impact of COVID-19 on HSENI’s activity and outcomes 40 - Long Term Expenditure Trends 41 - Statistics 42

Accountability Report 50 • Corporate Governance Report 50 - Directors’ Report 50 - Statement of Accounting Officer’s Responsibilities 53 - Governance Statement 54 • Remuneration Report 63 • Staff Report 69 • Accountability and Audit Report 75 – Funding Report 75 – Certificate and Report of the Comptroller and Auditor 76 General to the Northern Ireland Assembly

6 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 7 to materials which may have a long latency After a three year suspension period, January period. In addition there has been much focus 2020 saw the return of the Northern Ireland Foreword on Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) and the Assembly and the appointment of Mrs Diane longer term impact on the health and well-being Dodds MLA as the Minister for the Economy. As of individuals. a result, HSENI’s draft Corporate Plan 2018-2023 was formally approved by the Minister on 4 March Across all sectors, major injuries fell in 2019-20 2020. from 325 to 290, representing an 11% decrease. We are pleased to present HSENI’s twenty first Annual Report and This is often an unacknowledged statistic as there The UK left the European Union (EU) on 31 is a tendency to see the fatalities as the headline January 2020 and entered into the transition Accounts. Overall, the total number of all work-related fatalities figure and overlook the significant number of very period. Since then, HSENI has worked to make in Northern Ireland in 2019-20, including those within areas serious, often life-changing, injuries. There was a preparations for the implementation of the decrease of 5% in reportable work-related injuries Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol to ensure that are the responsibility of both HSENI and local councils, was between 2018-19 and 2019-20. Northern Ireland aligns with the relevant EU 3 legislation. 12 compared to 17 in the previous year. Any loss of life in the During the year, HSENI carried out 5,399 workplace is unacceptable and HSENI set their priorities in full inspections of workplaces and served 247 The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in formal enforcement notices. Key aspects of the final weeks of 2019-20 had a major impact consultation with their board, in order to enable us to prioritise our HSENI’s front line work in 2019-20 continued on the organisation and its activities. HSENI staff resources to best tackle the high risk areas which, over the 2019- to be dominated by investigating a number of dealt with an unprecedented number of phone significant workplace incidents which resulted calls and emails in relation to COVID-19 concerns 20 period, included the construction and manufacturing sectors. in a fatality or a serious injury, and dealing with whilst working from remote locations. ‘Lockdown’ It is clear that these work areas are high risk environments and a continuing high number of complaints about was imposed quickly and the organisation unhealthy and unsafe workplaces. Complaints reacted swiftly to ensure that the organisation while we cannot remove the risks we want to ensure that all those and notified incidents in the construction could continue to deliver its statutory functions sector continue to rise. This type of reactive as well as dealing with the new and immediate people engaged in these industries do everything in their power to work defines to a large extent our capacity to demands imposed by necessity which left HSENI manage the risks. undertake proactive inspections. Investigations staff seeking to interpret Public Health advice in by the Major Investigation Team resulted in 14 terms of its application to the workplace. successful prosecutions which led to fines totalling £602,500. Despite another challenging year HSENI remains The role of HSENI in this process is through The number of fatalities in agriculture decreased focused on the important work of stopping regulation and inspection but also through significantly from seven last year to one during HSENI continued to work throughout the period unsafe working practices and making work education. Only by ensuring that every employee 2019-20. This fatality related to a child, and to reduce occupational ill-health, in partnership safer every day. We are grateful to all those who is equipped with the skills and knowledge to carry whilst any loss of life is difficult, it is particularly working with a number of organisations, including share our ambition to make Northern Ireland’s out their role safely can we say we have done tragic when it involves a child. The Farm Safety the Workplace Health Leadership Group (WHLG). workplaces as safe and healthy as possible and everything in our power to keep people safe in Partnership remains the vehicle through which In November 2019, WHLGNI, in partnership with who have contributed to the achievement of the the workplace. We must also seek to focus on HSENI and its partners and affiliates work to HSENI, delivered a two day occupational health outcomes set out in this Annual Report. the less well publicised figures relating to major improve farm safety. While we continue to work conference entitled ‘Managing Workplace Health: injuries. Such injuries will often be life changing with our partners and affiliates in the area of Fit for Purpose’. and will impact on the individual and their family farm safety, we can never lose sight of the other as well as affecting their ability to work. We must work areas where serious workplace incidents Robert Kidd Derek Martin not be complacent as this is very much a journey are occurring every month. We continue to Chief Executive Chairman to eradicate dangerous work practices, corner raise awareness of best practice, to pick up on cutting, inappropriate risk taking, poor efforts at time dangerous works through our inspection regime saving, all of which increase the risk of a serious and notified incidents. Across the various teams occurrence. It is essential that every employee has we see emerging challenges that need to be access to either suitable training to enable them managed and addressed. We strive to embrace to make safe decisions for themselves or has a new work methods that enhance workplace suitably qualified person on site to advise them of safety, measures to improve and maintain mental best safe practice. They must also feel empowered well-being in the workplace as well as making to question any practice which they feel exposes information and awareness raising materials them to unnecessary risk. available to reduce illnesses relating to exposure

3 This figure has been updated to reflect one further fatality during the 2018-19 period

8 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 9 There were three emerging risks on the risk While this performance report includes register at the end of March 2020: information on HSENI’s employees and social, Performance Report community and human rights issues, it does not • Failure to maintain an up to date regulatory include information about environmental matters framework as a result of the UK’s exit from the as HSENI is exempt from Greening Government Overview EU; Commitments. 4

• Impact of the UK’s exit from the EU on The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic HSENI, the regional health and safety authority for Northern operational/ enforcement activities; and towards the end of the reporting period had a significant impact on the organisation’s Ireland, was established on 1 April 1999 as an executive • COVID-19’s impact on the ability to meet operational targets. performance during the final weeks of 2019- Non Departmental Public Body (NDPB) with Crown status. 2020 and has continued to do so throughout Further information on these risks and the 2020-2021. During the period 16 March 2020 to This was brought about by an Order in Council amending the controls taken by HSENI to mitigate them is 24 June 2020 HSENI received 1,649 COVID-19 Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978. provided in the Managing Risk section of the related complaints, 1,053 of which fell within Governance Statement which forms part of HSENI’s remit with the remainder referred to local An executive NDPB has a role in Central Government but is not the Statement of Accounts accompanying this authorities to respond. Inspections following a Department or part of one. During 2019-20, HSENI was Annual Report. the emergence of COVID-19 were limited to those relating to serious fatal accidents. The financial results of HSENI are set out in the funded by the Department for the Economy (DfE). Inspectors returned to carrying out routine site Annual Accounts. The net cost of operations (i.e. visits following the development of guidance to net expenditure) for the year was £6,785,000. ensure staff could carry out their duties safely HSENI is committed to the prompt payment of and in line with Government guidelines. Given the HSENI’s organisational structure during 2019- Northern Ireland Assembly in January 2020. bills for goods and services. Quarterly analysis unprecedented levels of queries and complaints 20 is detailed on Appendix 1. The organisational has indicated that, during the year, HSENI being raised as a result of COVID-19 concerns, structures which support the delivery of The plan identifies three main overlapping themes paid 98.7% of its invoices within 10 working HSENI responded by implementing mechanisms on which HSENI will focus its work during the next to handle the volumes including increased call corporate governance in HSENI are outlined on days (2018-19: 99.6%). HSENI paid 100% of the Governance Statement (page 54). five years: safety, workplace ill-health and high its invoices within 30 days (2018-19: 100%). handling, offering advice and support remotely risk work activities. This policy on prompt payment is expected to and gathering evidence by way of submitted HSENI’s business is to ensure that risks to photographic and video evidence and following Principal risks managed by HSENI during 2019- continue in the 2020-21 financial year. people’s health and safety arising from work up with complainants. This enabled a much more 20 were as follows: activity are properly controlled, in ways that are The Statement of Accounts has been prepared timely response than could otherwise have been proportionate to risk, allow for technological • Failure to manage HSENI’s budget effectively under a direction issued by the Department for achieved by conducting site visits in every case. progress and pay due regard to costs as well as resulting in a significant under or overspend; the Economy under the Health and Safety at benefits; and in all that it does, seeks to promote Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978, as amended 225 out of 331 inspections carried out by better management of health and safety at work, • Failure to maintain functions and services of by the Health and Safety at Work (Amendment) HSENI’s inspectorate during the period 16 March through systematic approaches to identifying HSENI due to budgetary pressure; (Northern Ireland) Order 1998. The Statement of to 24 June 2020 related to COVID-19 incidents. hazards and assessing and controlling risks. Accounts has been prepared on a going concern HSENI also received a large number of COVID-19 • Ineffective governance leading to poor value basis. related queries from various media outlets and HSENI has primary responsibility under the above for money, fraud, loss of funds or irregular the organisation released a number of press Order for the regulation of health and safety expenditure; This performance report provides a balanced statements on a range of COVID-19 related at work in Northern Ireland. This involves the and comprehensive analysis of the development issues during the period. • Damage to HSENI’s reputation as a regulator as proposing and setting of necessary standards and performance of HSENI’s business during a result of legal proceedings or adverse media and securing compliance with those standards 2019-20 and includes the following sections on A detailed Performance Analysis of HSENI’s coverage; and undertaking other forms of activity designed Performance through to Statistics. As regards 2019-20 activities is included on Appendix 4.

to stimulate or support necessary action on the financial performance, HSENI operated during l • Failure to comply with GDPR or to manage, part of people and organisations that actually maintain and secure personal data and 2019-20 within the budget allocated to it by its create risk. information leading to legal proceedings and sponsor department, the Department for the fines from the ICO; Economy, and budget expenditure at year end Robert Kidd During the year, HSENI’s Corporate Plan for the was within the acceptable permitted limits given Chief Executive period 2018-2023 which had been endorsed • Disruption to service delivery; and the impact of Covid-19 on the organisation in the Date: 15 October 2020 by both HSENI’s Board and DfE’s Permanent closing weeks. Secretary, was approved by the Minister for • COVID-19 and its potential to disrupt service the Economy following the restoration of the delivery. 4 Source – DEFRA Greening Government Commitments Overview of Reporting Requirements 2016-2020 under the criteria ‘Arm’s length organisations (NOT government departments) occupying less than a total of 1,000m2 of floor area or with fewer than 250 FTE Staff’

10 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 11 Non-Executive Director’s Report HSENI works closely with its colleagues in HSE During the last quarter of the reported year, there (GB) and the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) in the were two significant developments. Firstly in HSENI launched its latest five year Corporate Plan for 2018- Republic of Ireland. This work, which is ongoing January 2020, the NI Assembly reconvened and a throughout the year, is underpinned by an annual new Executive was formed with Mrs Diane Dodds 2023 during 2018. The plan was developed following a series of Tripartite meeting between the Chairs and Chief MLA appointed to the role of Minister for the workshops and discussions between the Board of HSENI and the Executives and senior management of the three Economy. Shortly after this, in March 2020, the regulatory organisations to discuss matters of COVID-19 crisis broke. Senior Management Team. mutual strategic interest. This year the meeting was hosted by HSENI, a number of issues were HSENI, apart from having to implement its raised, the most important being the future role of Business Continuity Plan (and move to all staff the three authorities following the UK’s exit from working remotely from home overnight), became Due to the absence of a Minister at the time, During the year the Board Audit and Risk an important source of technical knowledge the plan was unable to be given Ministerial Management Committee (ARMC), chaired by Mrs the EU. This is the beginning of a new era as all three Chief Executives were less than 18 months and advice both to the Department and the approval and instead was issued in draft form. Hilary Singleton, met on four occasions to provide Minister and her Executive colleagues, as well This reporting year, 2019-2020 has been the support and assurance to the Board relating to in post at the time of the first meeting and there was a very clear commitment to continued as to those key industries who were required to first full year that the plan has been in place. The the management of risk and compliance with remain in operation during the lockdown period Board of HSENI have provided oversight of the corporate governance requirements by HSENI, collaborative working going forward both formally and informally. whilst keeping their employees safe. As other implementation of the plan during the course of including the robustness of internal controls, business and industry sectors have restarted, the year through formal reporting of progress by the probity of HSENI’s affairs and the propriety During the year a new Code of Practice, our staff continue to be much in demand to offer the Senior Management Team at Board meetings and regularity of HSENI’s management of public ‘Partnerships between Departments and Arm’s- advice on the safe return to work of employees and through more informal discussion between funds. Length Bodies’ was launched by DoF. The HSENI as employers seek to implement Public Health Board members and senior management during Due to the absence of an Executive, there have Board is very supportive of this development guidance. the course of the year. and the Chair and other board members, along been no Departmental budget reviews conducted This has put considerable pressure on all HSENI I am pleased to say that one of the early actions for a number of years, instead baseline budgets with the Chief Executive, attended a number of conferences and seminars organised by DoF staff over this period and I would like to thank of the new Minister for the Economy, Mrs Diane have been rolled forward into subsequent years them all, on behalf of our Board for the way in Dodds MLA, following the resumption of the NI and this uncertainty presented a number of and the NI Public Sector Chair’s Forum, which explained the background and development of which they have maintained and enhanced Assembly and the formation of a new Executive, challenges to the organisation, particularly in HSENI’s reputation during a very challenging time. in January 2020, was to formally approve the the areas of future planning of resources and this Code of Practice. draft plan. recruitment of staff. It is to senior management’s Our sponsoring department, the Department In conclusion, I would also like to thank my credit that the risks which developed as a result of for the Economy (DfE), continues to be very colleagues on the Board for their continued The year 2019-20 has proved a challenging one these challenges have been managed extremely support for me and for the Senior Management for HSENI in many ways in terms of workload and supportive of HSENI and we were pleased to competently. welcome the then Permanent Secretary, Noel Team and staff and for their ongoing commitment some key staffing changes. In January 2019, we to HSENI. welcomed a new Chief Executive, Robert Kidd. Other risks which the ARMC considered during Lavery, and two of his colleagues, Colin Lewis and The Board’s Remuneration Committee oversaw the year, included cyber security, information Colin Jack to our October board meeting. Board Robert’s period of induction into the organisation management, fraud and business disruption. members found it extremely interesting to get the during the first quarter of the reporting period and Department’s view on a wide range of subjects. board members provided collective and individual Farm safety continues to be an area of concern to HSENI. The Farm Safety Partnership was set support through their corporate and business Derek Martin up a number of years ago under the leadership of contacts to give introductions for Robert to meet Chairman a variety of external stakeholders from various HSENI, to provide a forum for stakeholder bodies business and industrial sectors, during the course within the agricultural sector to drive a change in of the year. attitudinal and behavioural change within farming to reduce the toll of severe injury and fatalities within the industry. HSENI Board members play an active role in the Partnership which is chaired by one of our Board members, Mr Harry Sinclair.

12 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 13 HSENI issued five press releases during Farm HSENI Inspection Campaigns Safety Week, entitled ‘HSENI backs call for Management farmers to put themselves first’, ‘Farm Safety Agriculture Contractors Initiative Week: Coping with the Pressures of Farming‘, In November 2019 HSENI began a series of Commentary ‘Farm Safety Week: Statistics’, ‘Warning when Agriculture Contractors advisory visits as part of working with older tractors’ and ‘Farm Safety an initiative to focus on how health and safety is Week: Stop and Think SAFE’. currently managed. The visits also highlighted the Communications During the year, the Communications Team was Throughout the week, HSENI Communications changes required to meet the minimum standard also involved in 101 promotional events including required by law and most importantly to keep Communication continues to play a vital role Team issued a series of social media posts on seminars, lectures, workshops and presentations, Facebook and Twitter, aimed at raising the issues everyone safe. in HSENI’s day to day- to- day programme of and produced 11 new published materials. work. HSENI promotes occupational health and of mental stress and safety issues amongst the ‘Construction Plant Accidents are Preventable’ safety advice and information to targeted groups Launch of ‘Coping with the Pressures of farming community. Initiative through a multi-channel strategy, which includes Farming’ Booklet In promoting International Farm Safety Week in On Monday 27 January 2020 HSENI began a campaigns, events, publications, seminars and July 2019, there was a positive response as a exhibitions. Social media plays a key role to In May 2019 HSENI, in conjunction with Rural two week programme of site inspections in the Support, launched the booklet ‘Coping with the result of HSENI PR activity, with 46 news articles construction sector. ‘Construction Plant Accidents highlight key themes and messages which are published in the local press. This represented aimed at preventing work-related injuries and Pressures of Farming’ at the Balmoral Show. Are Preventable’ was the clear message to the The booklet is aimed at offering the farming a total combined circulation of 1,760,100 and industry during this year’s initiative. ill-health and also promotes the many activities an advertising value equivalent of more than undertaken by HSENI. community help and assistance in relation to their health and well-being and every day pressures £35,267. All non-compliant plant, unsafe practices and Working in partnership is particularly important of running a farm. It has been researched and inadequate segregation of pedestrians and ‘Avoid Harm on the Farm’ child safety calendar vehicles on local building sites were targeted to HSENI if it is to reach a wider target audience. collated to address some of the many and varied launch 2020 Partnerships exist in areas such as construction issues that contribute to stress when not handled during the drive aimed at reducing deaths and (BuildHealth), waste and recycling (WISHNI), appropriately. On 7 January 2020 HSENI’s Chief Executive, injuries within Northern Ireland’s construction farming (the Farm Safety Partnership), and mental Robert Kidd, launched the ‘Avoid Harm on the industry. well-being (The Workplace Health Leadership Farm’ child safety calendar launch 2020. The Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) Group NI). These partnerships allow HSENI to launch took place at St Joseph’s Primary School, promote its messages to a much wider audience Donagh, where one of the winning entries The Affiliate Scheme, which was set up in 2016, than it would be able to reach on its own. attended. For this competition, HSENI received continues to be a success and each year an award 3,882 entries from 72 schools all over Northern is presented as part of the FSP’s commitment Through the Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) and Ireland. to encourage and recognise organisations who the Farm Safety Partnership Affiliate Scheme pledge to utilise their resources and expertise to HSENI has continued to partner with 23 improve farm safety. organisations from a range of private, public and voluntary organisations with a shared goal in On 13 February 2020, the FSP awarded Polaris promoting a range of farm safety messages. This Safety Training and Rescue with an award for year the Farm Safety Foundation became the their contribution to health and safety for farming seventh member of the FSP. families. Pictured at the launch of the ‘Coping with the Pressures of Farming’ During 2019-20, HSENI’s Communication Team booklet: (L-R) Dr Denis McMahon, DAERA Permanent Secretary, John The Farm Safety Partnership was also very organised the following events, in partnership with Thompson, Rural Support Chair, Jude McCann, former Chief Executive impressed with the contribution from the Northern inspectorate staff: Rural Support, and Bryan Monson, HSENI Deputy Chief Executive. Ireland Safety Group (NISG), the Livestock and Meat Commission, and the Northern Health and • Balmoral Show, Balmoral Park, Lisburn – 15-18 Social Care Trust (NHSCT) in promoting farm safety May 2019 International Farm Safety Week 15–19 July 2019 through their work, and awarded the three Affiliates • Managing Work-Related Stress, The ‘Highly Commended’ certificates. Management Standards Approach, Ladas HSENI backed the seventh International Farm Pictured at the launch of the “Avoid Harm on the Farm” Child Safety Drive – 12 June 2019 Safety Week, led by award-winning charity the Farm Safety Foundation. HSENI’s aim was to 2020 Calendar is (L-R) Paul Kelly, HSENI Inspector, Robert Kidd, HSENI Chief Executive, Caoilfhionn Mohan, St Joseph’s PS and Mr Michael • Workplace Health Leadership Conference, La remind the farming community that looking after Grew, Principal St Joseph’s PS. Mon Hotel, Belfast - 20-21 November 2019 their own physical and mental well-being should always be the priority. • WISHNI Awards, Malone House, Belfast – 11 March 2020

14 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 15 Social Media

HSENI Twitter followers now exceed 2,900 and we have attracted 4,229 followers on our Facebook Employment Medical account which shows a further increase from last year. During 2019-20 HSENI’s views to Advisory Service HSENI’s YouTube channel have reached more than 412,897. The most viewed video continues to be that of the survivor story by Wallace Gregg, The Employment Medical Advisory Service (EMAS) functions are former president of the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU), where he relays how his eight year delivered through the provision of occupational health advice old son was injured in an accident falling from a on work-related health matters to organisations and individuals From L-R – Camilla Mackey, HSENI Principal Inspector, Harry Sinclair, tractor. This video which was launched in July HSENI Board Member and Farm Safety Partnership Chairperson, Mark 2016 has been viewed more than 106,000 times. including employers, employees, trade unions, regulators, health Harriott and Dr Patrick Harriott, Polaris Safety Training and Rescue, and Bryan Monson, HSENI Deputy Chief Executive. care professionals.

HSENI’s Communications Team continues HSENI also investigates complaints and HSENI Approved Medical Examiners of Divers to assist employers, employees, trade union concerns about ill-health, reports of diseases (AMEDs) representatives, safety professionals and received from employers under the Reporting of practitioners and members of the public requiring Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Approved Medical Examiners of Divers are also help or information on health and safety matters. Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 (RIDDOR) appointed by HSENI (via HSE (GB)) under the Diving at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) HSENI offers a telephone helpline which allows and facilitates the appointment and approval of doctors under statutory requirement. 2005. HSENI has adopted the Guidance on customers to speak to a HSENI representative Fitness to Dive developed by the Health and who provides advice on health and safety in the Appointed Doctors Safety Executive in Great Britain as its standard. workplace, on a confidential basis if necessary. In 2019-20, HSENI’s five Approved Medical This service responded to 6,444 requests. The HSE (GB), on behalf of HSENI, carries out the Examiners of Divers conducted 100 ‘fitness to service is accessed through HSENI’s Freephone appointment, renewal and review process of dive’ assessments. Helpline on 0800 0320 121. Farm accident survivor story by Wallace Gregg. Appointed Doctors. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous The Communications Team is responsible for HSENI appoints doctors under four sets of Occurrences Regulations (NI) 1997 (RIDDOR) - HSENI’s public relations and marketing function, regulations to carry out statutory medical Reported Diseases 2019-20 ensuring that key workplace health and safety examinations. It also sets standards for their messages are promoted in an appropriate and qualifications and for the conduct of the specific Under the RIDDOR Regulations, HSENI received timely manner to targeted groups through a assessments and examinations. All doctors are 22 reports of diseases, all of which were variety of communication channels. the subject of periodic review. At 31 March 2020, reportable. There were 11 cases of hand-arm there were a total of seven NI based appointed vibration syndrome, two cases of carpal tunnel Throughout the year HSENI: doctors, two of which held dual regulation syndrome, three cases of occupational dermatitis, • distributed over 18,499 free publications giving appointments (and four further based in GB three cases of traumatic inflammation of tendons health and safety advice; carrying out medical surveillance under HSENI of the hand or forearm, one case of leptospirosis, Regulations). one case of legionella and one case of infection • distributed over 5,995 promotional items; attributable to specific work. These notifications In this reporting period, appointed doctors based came from 17 different employers. • dealt with 6,444 calls for information via its in Northern Ireland carried out approximately 146 Freephone Helpline; and statutory medical examinations.

• enabled website visitors to download some 99,663 publication files.

16 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 17 the show on the same stand as HSENI. HSENI Agricultural Contractors Initiative also supported the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Agriculture and Food Ulster (YFCU) by aiding with the organisation and HSENI business advisors continued to carry out judging of a safe tractor handling competition. the initiative with agricultural contractors during During Balmoral Show 2019 Rural Support in the year. They offered support and advice to 19 conjunction with HSENI launched their “Coping contractors to enable them to manage health with the Pressures of farming” booklet, this aimed and safety effectively in their businesses. Those to tackle the issue of mental health in agriculture contractors who took up the offer of advice There are almost 25,000 farm businesses in During the spring and summer of 2019 HSENI responded very positively about the initiative. Northern Ireland, most of which are small family organised and ran another very successful and raise awareness around this very important subject. HSENI’s business advisors will continue to offer run farms with only one or two people running primary school poster competition. This this valuable service to the industry. the business. The agriculture industry as a whole competition is always very well received by Presentations and Advisory Work employs over 49,000 people. Approximately teachers and children alike and it continues Inspection, Complaints and Investigation 55% of farmers are classified as being employed to garner huge interest from children with an HSENI delivered 16 presentations to farmers’ full-time on their farm with over 70% of farms agricultural background. groups, students at CAFRE Colleges, HSENI inspectors continued through the year being classified as very small (statistics taken stakeholders in the agriculture industry and to carry out general inspections on agricultural from the Department of Agriculture and Rural 3,382 pupils from 72 primary schools submitted other relevant bodies during the year. These premises, deal with complaints and investigate Development –The Agricultural Census in drawings to the poster competition. The twelve presentations, given directly to those working serious and fatal incidents where required. winning entries were used to produce a Child Northern Ireland – June 2019). The majority in the industry, are extremely important. Food and Drink Processing Industry of farms in Northern Ireland are run as a family Safety on Farms calendar for 2020. Over 42,000 Larger audiences can be reached during such business and a sizeable proportion of those calendars were produced and distributed (through presentations and practical advice can be given The food and drink processing industry was involved have jobs outside the farm business. rural primary schools) to ensure that a calendar directly to farmers and their families. Incidents estimated to have employed 24,818 full-time was delivered to every rural home in Northern and common health and safety issues can be employee equivalents across the industry in The Agri-food Group within HSENI has Ireland with children of primary school age. discussed and these have always been well 2018. enforcement responsibility for work in farming, received by those who have attended. The ‘Bee Safe’ events are a multi-agency community Inspections in this industry focused on the main horticulture, forestry, arboriculture, fish farming delivery of health and safety presentations to the safety initiative organised specifically for key health and safety issues including maintenance and the food and drink processing industry. farming community has also been carried out by stage 2 children. Key safety messages are activities, vehicle movement, work at height, farm health and safety ambassadors from the Promotional and Educational Activities communicated to the children by various management of asbestos, machinery guarding, regulatory bodies at these events. HSENI Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU). During the period 2019-20 HSENI’s Agri-food training of workers, vulnerable workers and health attended six ‘Bee Safe’ events throughout Farm Safety Partnership issues relevant to the company. Staff from the staff took part in a range of promotional events the year, delivering interactive farm safety including Open Farm weekend in June 2019, an Agri-food team carried out over 100 inspections presentations and reaching over 3,000 pupils. All members of the Farm Safety Partnership have of food and drink processing companies. agricultural contractor’s event in January 2020 been very active throughout the year and have and Balmoral Show in May 2019. Balmoral Show 2019 Business advisors from HSENI provided practical achieved the vast majority of the objectives set help and advice on the management of health Child Safety on Farms At the 2019 Balmoral Show HSENI focused on out in the 2018 – 2020 Farm Safety Partnership and safety in food and drinks processing the dangers of inadequate power take off (PTO) Action Plan. The action plan has strived to premises, providing over 10 advisory visits in HSENI continued to deliver it’s ‘Be Aware shaft guarding and ladder safety. Throughout the raise awareness, improve safety standards and 2019. This valuable support was well received Kids’ Child Safety on Farms Campaign during four days of the show, practical demonstrations encourage behavioural change in the industry by those companies who took up the offer of the year. Between April and June 2019, on PTO safety were given, as well as ladder based on the four ‘SAFE’ topics (Slurry, Animals, assistance. Foundation, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils safety demonstrations which were carried out by Falls and Equipment). In 2020 a new Farm Safety received important farm safety messages via Polaris Safety Training, one of the Farm Safety Partnership Action Plan is due to be published presentations carried out in rural primary schools Partnership Affiliates. for the period 2020-2023. The core principles right across Northern Ireland. HSENI staff visited will largely remain the same, focusing on the 88 rural schools in the period where over 9,000 Child safety was also an integral part of the stand ‘SAFE’ topics. However emphasis will be placed children received our farm safety messages. along with providing other promotional materials upon ‘Safety Essentials’, which will concentrate for farmers and their families. During the show on the most common causes of incidents and Farm safety presentations were also delivered representatives from Girlguiding Ulster and encourage those working on farms to take simple to pupils studying for a GCSE in Agriculture and IOSH attended the HSENI stand and helped to precautions to prevent injury and death, and to Land Use at 14 schools across Northern Ireland. encourage people to visit the stand and to take embed that behaviour in future working practices. This is in line with the GSCE syllabus and also part in the farm safety competition. HSENI would helps HSENI target a different audience of 14 to like to express its thanks to IOSH and Girlguiding 16 year olds. Ulster for their continued support as well as Rural Support and Farm Families who attended

18 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 19 Plant Initiative

In January 2020 HSENI undertook a plant Construction initiative across house building sites in Northern Ireland with the clear message that construction plant accidents are preventable. All non- compliant plant, unsafe practices and inadequate segregation of pedestrians and vehicles on local Sadly in 2019-20 there were four fatalities on construction sites. building sites were targeted. It was noted that operative training was in place in 98% of the sites The main cause of major injury accidents in construction remains but improvement is needed in maintenance of falls from height. fleet including handbrakes and mirrors. Vehicle pedestrian segregation remains a big challenge across the industry.

Reducing the number of injuries and deaths A successful BuildHealth and Institute of Safety Other Promotional Activities is a priority for HSENI, in order to help prevent & Health (IOSH) joint conference was held on 15 HSENI continues to work in partnership with a the devastating effect these accidents have October 2019 in Templepatrick. The key note number of key stakeholders in order to promote on the lives of workers and their families. In speaker was Professor Alistair Gibb, head of important health and safety messages to the 2019-20 the Construction group issued 108 construction and engineering management at construction industry. Such collaboration during Prohibition Notices targeting work at height, Loughborough University. Alistair has managed 2019- 20 included: plant maintenance and control of asbestos. The teams working on many research projects in Construction group handled 415 complaints in construction innovation and health and safety. • Liaison with the HSE (GB) Asbestos Licensing 2019-20, which is a reduction from the previous Unit; year, and recognises the new complaints handling Asbestos • Membership of industry panels & forums system and the effect it has on operational HSENI continued to exercise its statutory function such as the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) groups. as a licensing authority and conducted interviews and the Industrial Liaison Panel (ILP) at Ulster with companies either renewing their asbestos During 2019-20, HSENI continued to raise University; the profile of health during site visits including licences or those applying for the first time. respirable crystalline silica, occupational cancers Inspection of licensed asbestos removal work • Advisory representation at the meetings of and manual handling. During relevant inspections, formed a part of the normal day-to-day work the health and safety officers of Government the requirement for face fit testing for all tight carried out by Construction inspectors this year. groups in the Central Procurement Directorate fitting Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Asbestos is routinely discussed at site visits and (CPD); and was discussed. HSENI continues to inspect concerns in this area are regularly reported and • Participation in industry seminars. welfare facilities on site to ensure these meet the dealt with as complaints. legal standards. The presence of asbestos in existing buildings is BuildHealth also discussed with clients and designers. They are informed of the need to include asbestos The BuildHealth initiative continues to build on refurbishment and demolition surveys as part of a successful past with new companies joining the preconstruction information for the project. every year. It is very encouraging to see the This remains an ongoing area of interest which industry being proactive in improving the health HSENI inspectors undertake, also engaging with of the workforce and especially encouraging to Local Authorities in some joint working. see the mentoring role carried out by the larger companies with their sub-contractors. A free BuildHealth Workshop was delivered on 4 April 2019 in Londonderry on ‘Managing Asbestos and Dust on site’. The workshops provided small builders with practical advice on how to implement controls to improve occupational health on site.

20 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 21 Explosives good planning.

In November 2019 a Memorandum of Abandoned Mines Extractive Industries Understanding was made between the Department of Justice (DoJ) and HSENI on the The Department for the Economy (DfE) has and Waste provision of explosives-related technical support. responsibility for the approximately 2,400 Since then HSENI has provided assistance abandoned mine workings in Northern Ireland. to the Department of Justice in exercising its In order to manage these abandoned mine The extractive industries are a major contributor to the Northern responsibility as the enforcing authority for workings, DfE formed the Northern Ireland Mines explosives. Oversight Committee (NIMOC). HSENI provides Ireland economy. There are around 170 quarries which produce technical support to this working committee. HSENI organised a seminar for Regulators on the approximately 24 million tonnes of aggregates annually. These are use of explosives in demolition in February 2020. Mining Industry mainly for the construction industry. The guest speaker was John Wolstenholme HM Inspectors of Mines in Great Britain continue FIStrutE, FIExpE, who is a Principal Inspector with to provide technical support to HSENI on mining the Office for Nuclear Regulation and former past activities and have been involved in a number of President of the Institute of Explosives Engineers. major hazard topic inspections at mine workings The quarry industry exports high quality During November 2019 HSENI, in association Attendees at the event held in Belfast included in Northern Ireland during 2019-20. Topics aggregates used in road surfacing to Great with HSENI’s Mental Well-being at Work Advisory representatives from DoJ, Police Service for covered included ground control, electrical power Britain (GB) and Europe and produces high Service, delivered an awareness seminar to senior Northern Ireland (PSNI), and the Health and Safety systems and diesel vehicle fire prevention. quality limestone and chalk that is used in many directors from the quarry and concrete industry Authority (Republic of Ireland), as well as HSENI downstream products such as fertiliser and on the use of HSE (GB)’s Management Standards inspectors from the Explosives, Construction, Waste Industry animal feedstuffs. as a tool to control the risks associated with Extractive Industries and Waste Groups. The The waste and recycling sector in Northern work-related stress in their individual businesses. purpose of the seminar was to examine in detail The concrete products industry in Northern Ireland has approximately 5,500 employees The purpose of the initial seminar held in Larne the planning cycle for a blow down event such as Ireland also produces a wide range of products involved in the recycling of paper, cardboard, was to provide the senior management of the the demolition of a high rise block of flats using such as kerbstones, concrete floor slabs, plastic, glass, metals, green waste etc. in order larger companies with the necessary information explosives. Incidents in recent years involving the paving slabs and concrete pipes. Many of these to greatly reduce the demand for landfill.6 and encouragement to put systems in place to use of explosives in the demolition of high rise products are exported to the GB market. The support their line managers. Further seminars blocks of flats where the demolition did not go It is a rapidly growing industry with numbers extractive industries employ approximately 6,500 are planned for line managers working within the 5 according to plan certainly highlight the need for expected to rise three fold over the next 10 to 15 people in Northern Ireland. extractive industry in 2020-21. years and is made up of approximately 500 waste Quarry & Concrete Industry HSENI continues to work with MPANI to ensure premises such as waste management sites, permitted sites, authorised treatment facilities HSENI, supported by the Mineral Products the message that quarries are not playgrounds and licence exempt sites. Association Northern Ireland (MPANI) and is widely circulated. A joint letter highlighting the ‘Play Safe Stay Safe’ campaign was sent to the Institute of Quarrying (IoQ), delivered 12 Target areas for inspection have been established all school principals. A joint press release was workshops to the quarry industry across Northern and include workplace health (musculoskeletal issued to alert the public of the dangers of very Ireland during November 2019. These workshops disorders, dust and welfare facilities), workplace cold deep water in both active and abandoned were part of HSENI’s focus on occupational transport (vehicle all round visibility and vehicle / quarries, warning that these should not be used health in the quarry industry and highlighted pedestrian segregation) and machinery (guarding, for swimming. the potential for quarry workers to be robbed of isolation and safe maintenance). Efforts continue their old age and retirement. Workshops were A planned workshop for the pre-stress concrete to raise awareness within the industry and, where attended by approximately 150 quarry workers industry to address noise, dust and machinery necessary, proportionate enforcement action is from around 80 quarries. The key message for guarding on mobile saw machines used in long taken to ensure employee safety. HSENI intends the quarry industry was ‘A Quarry Worker is five bed production was postponed and will be to place a continued emphasis on occupational times more likely to die from Chronic Obstructive delivered during 2020. health in the waste and recycling sector during Pulmonary Disease (COPD) than a worker in the 2020-21. general population’. HSENI is proactively working HSENI continued to provide planning advice with the quarry industry to ensure each quarry as a consultee to Strategic Planning and the takes action to implement a dust strategy for their Local Planning Offices within the 11 councils individual quarry. The dust strategy will assist in in Northern Ireland on matters relating to both reducing worker health issues arising from dust quarries and mines. exposure. (L-R) John Wolstenholme, Principal Inspector with the Office for Nuclear Regulation, with Ken Logan, HSENI Principal Inspector of Explosives 6 Source – NISRA Quarterly Employment Survey Quarter 4 2019: 5 Source – Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency (NISRA) Quarterly Employment Survey Quarter 4 2019: Date published 17 March 2020 Date published 17 March 2020

22 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 23 Waste Industry Safety and Health Forum (WISHNI)

HSENI has continued to support the Waste Major Hazards, Industry Safety and Health Forum for Northern Ireland (WISHNI) providing health and safety Gas and Transport advice and resources for industry, as well as raising awareness through the sharing of best practice. The WISHNI forum meets every three HSENI’s Major Hazards, Gas and Transport Group is involved in to four months and consists of a partnership of private industry, regulators and local councils. ensuring public and employee safety across a diverse range of

The seventh annual Ambassador Awards industries and activities. These include gas transmission, gas presentation took place at Malone House, Belfast distribution and use, land use planning, sites subject to the Control in March 2020. Newly appointed Ambassadors were recognised for health and safety best of Major Accident Hazards Regulations (COMAH), road haulage, practice and a willingness to engage with other bus operators, railways (mainline and heritage) and airports. It is businesses to help improve standards within the industry. Four organisations were recognised at difficult to judge the total numbers employed within this diverse the awards ceremony. A returning award category arena, but it is estimated to be over 30,000. this year was for ‘Student Ambassador’. The successful student, an Environmental Health undergraduate from Ulster University, was recognised for a piece of coursework which Gas Safety Major Hazards - Control of Major Accident focused on the importance of managing and Hazards (COMAH) reducing noise within the UK waste industry. A new five year, UK wide Service Concession Agreement (SCA) for Capita Gas Registration and The NI Competent Authority for the Seveso Ancillary Services (CGRAS) to run the Gas Safe II Directive comprises the Northern Ireland Register (GSR) – the official list of gas engineers Environment Agency (NIEA) and HSENI, acting registered to work legally and safely in NI and GB, as a joint Competent Authority to deliver a commenced on 1 April 2019. programme of inspections and advice for those sites subject to COMAH, with 10 sites being In partnership with the Gas Safe Register, categorised at higher risk (‘upper-tier’) and 14 visits and inspections were conducted in the sites as lower risk (‘lower-tier’). The majority of downstream private, industrial and commercial COMAH sites in Northern Ireland are subject to sectors with enforcement action being pursued these regulations because they have extensive as necessary to ensure the safety of members oil and gas storage facilities. Consequently HSENI of the public and employees being harmed by is closely involved with large scale oil and gas unsafe gas work. storage proposals from design through to build.

(L-R) Jim King, WISHNI Chairperson, David Donnelly (Re-Gen Waste The Joint HSENI and District Council Gas Safety All sites are inspected by HSENI and NIEA (usually Limited), Damien Teague (McQuillan Environmental Ltd), Maria Gribben Regulators Group continued to meet regularly together), to determine compliance with the (Student Ambassador), Michael McLaughlin (McKinstry Skip Hire), during 2019-20. The group shared knowledge on COMAH regulations. Agendas for inspection and Anne Coyle (ReCon Waste Management), and Robert Kidd, a range of gas topics, including gas appliances HSENI Chief Executive advisory visits are prepared based on HSE (GB)’s and the safe installation of gas equipment, and COMAH enforcement guidelines. Inspection in doing so helped to promote consistency and reports are completed outlining any necessary good practice in gas safety regulation. Following the awards ceremony, a health improvement plans or enforcement actions. The and safety seminar was attended by over 70 The continued expansion of the natural gas risk management basis of each COMAH site is delegates from across the industry. Throughout networks, including the ongoing Gas to the West regularly reviewed. the event exhibitors provided advice and services (GttW) project, led to further planned visits and HSENI also has responsibility for ensuring that specific to the requirements of the industry. inspections within the natural gas transmission external emergency plans covering off-site risks and distribution sectors of the industry to ensure are prepared, tested and reviewed for all ‘upper- compliance. tier’ COMAH sites.

24 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 25 HSENI has responsibility for ensuring that Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road external emergency plans covering off-site risks are prepared, tested and reviewed for all ‘Upper The legislation dealing with the carriage of Manufacturing, Tier’ COMAH sites. ‘Upper Tier’ COMAH sites are dangerous goods (CDG) is the Carriage of also required to prepare, test and review internal Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable emergency plans covering on-site risks. Pressure Equipment Regulations (NI) 2010 (as Utilities and Docks amended) which, with some exceptions, requires Land Use Planning duty holders to comply with the European The Manufacturing, Utilities and Docks (MUD) group water, sewerage and the electrical generation and Agreement concerning the International Carriage has enforcement responsibility across a very wide distribution industries during 2019-20. HSENI is a statutory consultee to the Planning of Dangerous Goods by Road, commonly known Service on developments in the vicinity of range of businesses and activities. This year, as as ADR. Work continued to address the requirements COMAH sites, gas transmission pipelines in previous years, priority was given to the core under the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity and other significant hazards. This is to Inspection of compliance with CDG Regulations business activities of inspection and the investigation Regulations (ESQCR). A number of inspections ensure members of the public, in particular during 2019-20 included on-road inspections of complaints and incidents across these sectors. took place on electrical infrastructure on private vulnerable groups, who work or live near such of dangerous goods traffic (with PSNI) as well General Manufacturing networks and with the main electricity network hazardous installations, are not subjected to an as duty holders’ premises. This involved both an provider in Northern Ireland. HSENI engaged with unacceptable level of risk. assessment of management systems, including The manufacturing sector includes companies Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) and with private the role of a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor that manufacture or process a wide and diverse HSENI continued to highlight the importance of clients in relation to their duty to risk assess overhead (DGSA), and checks on vehicles at the premises. range of products. These range from heavy and consultation in relation to the Planning Advice powerlines and substations from dangers to the light engineering, aerospace, wood based products, for Developments near Hazardous Installations The focus was on the most important public arising from interference, vandalism or plastics, rubber, electrical, vehicles, pharmaceuticals (PADHI) and provide advice as a statutory requirements, i.e. those that contribute unauthorised access. and glass, as well as vehicle repair and maintenance. consultee to Strategic Planning and the Local significantly to the safety of the public, etc. such Overall the industry employs approximately 67,000 Within the renewable energy sector, work continued Planning Offices within the 11 local councils as: people on a full and part-time basis.7 with the programme of inspections on wind farm in Northern Ireland. In total, the Major Hazards, operators, focusing on emergency planning and Gas and Transport Group advised on 96 such • the integrity of packages, tanks etc.; Inspections and investigations focused on emergency rescue. statutory consultations during this period. • tank testing and ADR vehicle and annual machinery guarding, maintenance activities, workplace transport, operator training, the operation Business Advisor Transport technical inspection of road vehicles; and maintenance of forklift trucks, lifting and slinging During 2019-20, the business advisor within the Inspections and investigations have encouraged • documentation; operations, slips and trips, as well as health issues group carried out over 50 advisory visits to a the use of the available checklists to help identify including, noise, fumes, manual handling and hand • equipment including fire extinguishers; range of manufacturing companies and provided gaps in arrangements for ensuring that this risk arm vibration syndrome. practical advice and guidance on managing health is effectively managed. This has included the • other matters of obvious concern, e.g. insecure Health concerns regarding the fumes generated and safety within the workplace. The advisor also need to manage the occupational road risk to loads; when welding mild steel have been a major issue in delivered 39 presentations to young people in third safeguard members of the public as well as the • driver training; the manufacturing sector. HSENI has been working level education who will soon enter work, as well driver of a company vehicle. with industry to raise awareness of the risks from as numerous farm safety presentations to primary • vehicle placarding and orange plate marking; In addition, investigation work has been carried welding fume and assisting industry to put in place school children as part of the Child Safety on Farms and out across a wide range of peripatetic activities. measures to control the issue. and BeeSafe programmes. Falls from vehicles during loading and unloading • package marking and labelling. Docks, Harbours and Ports COVID-19 operations, the vehicle / pedestrian interface, and load safety, particularly security of loads which Railways During 2019-20, inspection activity in the docks, The COVID-19 pandemic at the end of the financial can cause significant risks during transit and at HSENI continued to conduct joint inspections harbours and ports throughout Northern Ireland year created significant concerns amongst delivery sites, continued to be the key topics in conjunction with Northern Ireland Railways continued to focus on plant maintenance, workplace employees and lead to a very substantial increase focused on during inspections and investigations (NIR), Transport NI and PSNI. The physical transport, lifting operations, work in confined spaces in the number of complaints received by HSENI. in this sector. A focus was also maintained on arrangements in terms of provision of appropriate and the management of contractors and tenants, as Almost 200 complaints were dealt with by the MUD occupational health matters within the sector barriers, signage and vegetation control were well as the health risks associated with dusty cargoes team during the month of March. The main concerns such as hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and examined at level crossings. Inspection work was and paint spraying of isocyanides. raised included social distancing, housekeeping, manual handling. vulnerable groups, personal protective equipment, carried out in relation to railway operations during Utilities this period. The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) risk assessment, communication with employees operates a licensing regime for heritage/ minor Inspections and investigations of complaints and and public health messages. railways. HSENI provides advice to the DfI with incidents were carried out in the telecommunications, regard to this and carries out inspections. 7 Sources - NISRA and Invest NI

26 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 27 Major Investigation Public Sector Team

During 2019-20, the Major Investigation team (MIT) took on The Public Sector Group (PSG) combines Health, Education, investigations into ten new incidents, six of which were fatal Social Care, Disciplined Services, Local and Central Government accident investigations. In addition, the team carried forward with associated activities and Agencies. The group also includes seven investigations from the previous operational year. Of the the Product Safety team, Fairgrounds and Genetically Modified six fatal accident investigations that MIT is involved in, two relate Organisms (GMOs) in Contained Use. to incidents within the Agri-food sector, and the remaining four occurred within the Manufacturing, Docks, Healthcare and Private Employment figures published by the Northern recycling sites to review traffic management, the Waste sectors respectively. Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) safe operation of compactors, safety of members indicate that during the reporting period the of the public on the site and to follow up on Public Sector employed just over 27% of the complaints. working population in Northern Ireland. In total, seven cases were submitted to the Public A further four cases carried over from previous Safe operation of leisure facilities also featured Prosecution Service between 1 April 2019 and 31 operational years are currently in the court During 2019-2020, just under half (48%) of the on the inspection programme, including the March 2020. Also, during the same period, a total system. Details of all prosecutions completed accidents reported to HSENI as required by the management of asbestos and legionella, with of 14 prosecutions were completed. The total during 2019-20 are set out in Appendix 3 to this Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous a number of leisure centres and associated amount of fines arising out of these cases was report. Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) involved premises visited, including those managed by £602,500. public sector activities. private companies. HSENI also issued a press statement following Poorly maintained plant and equipment, the completion of each prosecution. This is an The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic HSENI regularly attends the Local Authorities unguarded machinery and a lack of suitable and essential action to highlight the failings which led towards the end of 2019-20 meant that Health and Safety Advisors Network (LASAN) sufficient risk assessments resulting in unsafe to the incident, lessons learned and also acts as inspectors dealt with a large number of and has briefed the Local Authorities Technical systems of work were factors in a number of an important means of signposting other duty complaints and enquiries across all our sectors Advisors Group (TAG) on HSENI’s role and incidents. holders to sources of information and advice concerning social distancing and the provision of current health and safety issues relating to Local on how to work safely and ultimately avoid PPE. Authority activities including safe operation of One case in particular related to a poorly planned prosecution. RCVs. lifting operation which could easily have resulted Local Authorities in a fatality. A lorry driver was in the vicinity of an HSENI continues to use information relating Disciplined Services unloading operation to remove a stacker truck to incidents to highlight the dangers of such During the year HSENI inspectors carried out from the rear of a flatbed lorry using a forklift activities through general inspections, advertising inspections and investigations into a range of These services comprise PSNI, the Northern truck. During the operation the stacker truck fell campaigns, press articles and seminars to the Local Authority (LA) activities. Management of Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), the off the forks of the forklift truck landing on the relevant industries. waste and waste collection is a major part of Northern Ireland Prison Service, the Maritime and lorry driver who sustained serious injuries. This LA activity. There were ongoing interactions Coastguard Agency and the Ministry of Defence. incident was entirely foreseeable and could have with councils throughout the year in relation to During the year, the group continued to provide been avoided if a suitable and sufficient risk bin loading and refuse collection vehicle (RCV) these organisations with advice and guidance assessment had been carried out which would movement following a fatal incident when an and undertook investigations when necessary. have identified simple control measures and the operative was struck by a reversing RCV. These Throughout the year HSENI inspectors have correct equipment for the job. The company included unannounced observations and checks continued to meet with senior managers and taking delivery of the load failed to identify followed by meetings with council management employee representatives from the Disciplined the risks associated with the activity and was to review vehicle CCTV footage, route risk Services to discuss health and safety related subsequently fined £150,000. assessments and discuss measures councils issues. are implementing. Where necessary, additional measures were discussed. Officers continued to carry out unannounced visits to household

28 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 29 Government Departments/ Agencies Northern Ireland. Inspectors carried out a number of inspections at fairground sites across Northern HSENI continues to be represented at the Ireland during which key elements of health and Product Safety Interdepartmental Health and Safety Forum (IDHSF), safety management were discussed with operators as well as on the Department of Justice health and following specific incidents. General safety of the safety group. HSENI inspectors continue to work public on fairgrounds is always a priority including closely with the Health and Safety Officers from safe access and egress to and from rides, as well various Departments and Agencies to provide as the safe installation and operation of inflatable general health and safety advice or to investigate attractions. The Health and Safety at Work Order 1978 and EU Regulation incidents or complaints. During the year HSENI inspectors engaged with the Driver Vehicle Agency Biological Agents (EC) No 765/2008 (RAMS) provides the legal framework for (DVA) in relation to cracks which appeared on vehicle HSENI’s responsibilities in relation to product safety which lifts in the Test Centres. HSENI forms part of the Competent Authority (CA) on genetically modified organisms along with the includes market surveillance. Education Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). HSENI officials are provided with Within the education sector, inspectors dealt with technical support from HSE (GB), under an Agency a range of complaints, investigations and advisory Agreement. EU Market Surveillance helps to protect both those concerning products which are placed on the market contacts across all levels in the education sector. Northern Ireland manufacturers who competently within the UK, with regard to EU legislation. The work within this sector, like so much of the public HSENI takes the lead on behalf of the CA for design, equipment and machinery in compliance service, extends to the health and safety of both administering the respective regulations and acts with EU requirements and the end user from unsafe As an organisation, HSENI is also a member of BEIS’ staff and pupils, parents and visitors. Issues raised as the point of contact for notifications, enquiries machinery products. Intel group that works on Intel sharing across UK continued to be in relation to slips, trips and falls. and inspections in Northern Ireland. Premises MSAs. It also gives a timely opportunity to assess During the year inspectors continued to work closely notified within Northern Ireland range across With the United Kingdom passing the EU (Withdrawal the UK’s model of Intel sharing and how to achieve with the Education Authority’s (EA) Quality Health government laboratories, universities, as well as drug Agreement) Act 2020 in January 2020, HSENI’s best practice through creating Memorandums of Product Safety Team (PST) has worked closely Understanding between various UK MSAs. and Safety Unit and Safety Officers on matters manufacturing and drug testing facilities. with HSE (GB) Safety Unit and the Office of Product relating to health and safety in education, including HSENI is a leading participative member of BEIS’ the management of asbestos in schools. These HSENI reports to the European Commission through Safety and Standards (OPSS) within the Department HSE (GB) regarding Directive 2009/41/EC. This of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Northern Ireland Protocol Task and Finish Group, interactions have, as always, proved very beneficial. working with other MSAs who carry a MSA function HSENI continues to liaise with the Department provides an overview of activities and installations, This work has focused largely on the complexities particularly new ones, as well as accidents of how HSENI will continue to fulfil its obligations, solely in Northern Ireland or nationally, to assess the of Education (DE), the EA, the Education Training notified under the regulations and inspection and as a Market Surveillance Authority (MSA), post the implications for market surveillance post Transition inspectorate (ETI) and the unions in an ongoing period if no Free Trade Agreement is reached issue in relation to class sizes in practical classes in enforcement issues. transition period of the EU (Withdrawal Agreement) Act, and with particular focus on the requirements between Great Britain and the Union. Secondary Education. Advice was given to duty holders in relation to of the Northern Ireland Protocol (NIP) to maintain contained use regulation around clinical trials in HSENI in 2020 held an Extractive Industries Health and Social Care EU alignment with the Community Product Supply humans and significant changes of circumstances workshop on the 28 January 2020 with the leading Legislation, and HSENI’s continued requirement Inspectors continued to carry out inspections and relating to notifications. extractive industries within Northern Ireland. The to fulfil its obligation under EU Regulation (EC) No investigations across the health and social care outfall of this workshop continues, as HSENI raises 765/2008 (RAMS). sector within nursing homes, hospitals, health Specialist inspectors continued the legionella the awareness and necessity of compliance with inspection programme aimed at industrial premises centres, day centres and domiciliary care providers. HSENI has also continued to work closely with our European Directives and BS EN standards, primarily operating wet cooling systems such as cooling This work included both reactive and proactive sponsor Department, DfE, and Local Authorities concerning guarding. towers and evaporative condensers. These meetings and site visits. The Group continued to to look at the implications of the Northern Ireland inspections followed a pattern of reviewing risk HSENI continues to investigate cases of non- respond to complaints from both the public and Protocol and the implications, post transition period assessments, written schemes of control and compliant and unsafe machinery involving local employees in the health and social care sector. of a no Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU and statutory record keeping, before a physical check and EU manufacturers and importers arising As in previous years, these issues include moving its potential effect on market surveillance, and the of the plant was completed. The inspections were from complaints, inspections at trade shows and and handling arrangements, the safe use and potential for future possible regulatory divergence attended by the company representatives, senior notifications from other European MSAs. These thorough examination of lifting equipment, legionella from Great Britain. have included lifts, machinery, quarry washing and management, asbestos management, clinical waste, management and responsible persons, as well as a representative from the water treatment company HSENI is a member of the United Kingdom Market screening products, industrial kitchen equipment and care plan assessments, accident reporting and a host of large earth moving plant from within the EEA investigation. contracted to service and maintain the plant. Surveillance Network (MSN) which leads on the Inspectors from other groups within HSENI were strategic direction of market surveillance throughout and from the middle and Far East. Fairgrounds involved in some of these inspections. the UK. It also provides a mechanism for cooperation, coordination and the exchange of information HSENI has enforcement responsibility for travelling A range of accidents and incidents reported under between MSAs on policy obligations and policy funfairs and fairgrounds which are common in RIDDOR to HSENI by Health Trusts were investigated.

30 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 31 Other day-to-day work of the Product Safety Team includes:

• Updating ICSMS on all cases of Product safety Occupational Health intervention, as a requirement under RAMS (EC Regulation 765/2008); and Hygiene Group • Carrying out Proactive Market Surveillance on sector specific initiatives to increase awareness within the sector, i.e. Extractive The Occupational Health and Hygiene Group is comprised industries; of a Principal Inspector, an Inspector, an Occupational Health • Carrying out our statutory duty in relation to Professional, the Mental Well-being at Work Advisory Service and the requirements of BEIS’s Regulatory Delivery Team, by making returns on our market Scientific Services. In addition, the group also maintains oversight surveillance activity; and and operational responsibility in relation to the regulation of • Preparing as an invited speaker each year at ionising radiation across all industries. the annual United Kingdom Product Safety Conference in Great Britain.

The main focus of the Product Safety team has been Updated statistics in relation to occupational ill- preparation for the UK’s exit from the EU, and after the health in Northern Ireland suggest an approximate EU (Withdrawal Agreement) Act, became legislative, cost of £238 million to the local economy and an estimated 355 people die each year due to work- working on the implications of the Northern Ireland Protocol. However work has continued on related disease. These figures emphasise further the investigations and proactive market surveillance work of the Occupational Health and Hygiene Group within the Machinery Directive [Supply of Machinery in leading on the occupational health priority areas as (Safety) Regulations]. However, other market outlined within HSENI’s Corporate Plan 2018-2023. surveillance has taken place across other directives These priority areas are: where a product safety issue has been identified. • Occupational lung diseases; HSENI will continue to work and prepare alongside • Occupational cancers; and BEIS, HSE (GB), and our sponsor Department, DfE, on Pictured at the WHLG Conference are L-R Wilson Lambe, Chair of the implications of the Northern Ireland Protocol with • Work-related stress and musculoskeletal WHLG, Dr Michael McBride, Chief Medical Officer, Department of regard to regulatory compliance, market surveillance disorders. Health, Robert Kidd, HSENI Chief Executive, Professor David Fishwick, and the implications of possible regulatory Chief Medical Officer, HSE GB, and Lynda Bryans divergence from Great Britain. The importance of maintaining links with industry and key stakeholders has been maintained and not Other examples of HSENI’s partnerships include least as an active member of the Workplace Health working with the Department for Communities (DfC) Leadership Group Northern Ireland (WHLGNI). and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) In November 2019, WHLGNI, in partnership with Northern Ireland. In partnership, HSENI has been HSENI, delivered a two day occupational health able to facilitate the development of a new pilot for conference entitled ‘Managing Workplace Health: the construction sector as part of the Condition Fit for Purpose’. The conference, held in the greater Management Programme. The pilot when launched Belfast area, had over 550 attendees, 20 plenary will be open to the self-employed or employees working for companies employing less than 10. session presenters, nine workshop facilitators and 32 exhibitors. The Occupational Health and Hygiene Employees will be able to benefit from the help of Group was able to contribute significantly from health care professionals suffering from a range event planning and organisation, to the delivery of mental and physical health conditions. The of workplace health related presentations and programme is designed to helps workers to stay in workshops. Many of the themes of the conference work, expedite a return to work following sick leave or focused on HSENI’s key workplace health priorities. explore future employment options. The success of the conference highlighted further The group has also focused on a range of the value of HSENI working in partnership.

32 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 33 interventions designed to raise awareness among Strong working relationships with the PHA Workplace embed HSENI’s workplace health priority areas within Ionising Radiation Northern Ireland employers and to support Health and Well-being Programme service providers the day-to-day work of the unit. A review of the UK’s regulatory infrastructure for colleagues in their various inspection roles within has also provided many opportunities to provide HSENI. Visits were conducted at galvanising advice, guidance and tailored support to employers Scientific Services is accredited to ISO17025, an nuclear, radiation, radioactive waste and transport plants during which particular health hazards were throughout the four health trust areas. This involved international standard which enables laboratories safety took place in October 2019. This review was to demonstrate that they operate competently conducted by the Integrated Regulatory Review considered, including exposure to hexavalent the delivery of three additional workshops. chromium. Other health hazards considered during and generate valid results. Scientific Services is Service (IRRS) on behalf of the International Atomic inspections included welding, paint spraying and HSENI, in partnership with the PHA, also launched a accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Energy Agency. It focused on all relevant regulators chemical handling. step-by-step guide on the Management Standards Service (UKAS) for a range of procedures including across the UK, including HSENI. HSENI continues to to guide employers through the process. the sampling and identification of asbestos in bulk review and implement relevant recommendations.

The availability of an Occupational Health materials, asbestos air sampling and fibre counting, The process has also served to strengthen working Professional and an Occupational Hygiene Inspector assessment of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) relationships with other regulators both locally and in within the group continues to serve as a valuable systems and air sampling for dusts and aerosols. Great Britain. resource to the inspectorate in providing advice. In February 2020 the laboratory successfully maintained accreditation and transitioned to the During the last operational year much effort has Mental Well-being at Work Advisory Service revised 2017 version of the new ISO standard. focused on developing staff competencies in relation to ionising radiation inspection duties. This

The Mental Well-being at Work Advisory Service A significant role of Scientific Services is conducting has involved extensive training and joint visits to a (MWAWAS) consists of a team of three advisors. technical investigations on behalf of HSENI range of premises including veterinary practices The service has continued to provide advice, inspectors. Although the occupational hygiene work and healthcare premises where ionising radiation is guidance and support on how to control the risks often focuses on asbestos, a wide range of other commonly used. Visits have also focused on the safe associated with work-related stress. During 2019- occupational health hazards that exist within industry use of nuclear density gauges and the investigation 20, advisors continued to promote and deliver are routinely considered. Other health hazards for of elevated levels of radon within workplaces. which investigatory support has been provided awareness seminars to assist Northern Ireland Pictured at the launch of the step-by-step guide on implementation of employers to use HSE’s Management Standards as a the HSE Management Standards are L-R HSENI Mental Well-being at include respirable crystalline silica (RCS), isocyanates tool to control the risks associated with work-related Work Advisor Claire Kelly and Janet Calvert, Health & Social Care NI and welding fume. stress. Within the last operational year the team has

MWAWAS supported a range of organisations in Continuing to build and maintain effective working supported the inspectorate by presenting on implementing the Management Standards and relationships with local mental health organisations specialist topics at a number of events which delivered a total of 15 workshops across Northern and public bodies was a significant part of the day- included a presentation in March 2020 to the waste Ireland, including three tailored workshops for to-day work of advisors during the year. and recycling industry on health hazards associated separate organisations. Advisors actively participated with dust, a prevalent health risk within this sector. in seminars in conjunction with the Labour Relations Advisors also presented and exhibited at a number A presentation and practical workshop on LEV was Agency (LRA) and made further presentations at of events across Northern Ireland including Mental delivered at the WHLGNI conference and a series of events organised by the Mental Health Charter, Health Charter events, NIPSA Conference, WISH NI presentations were also delivered to duty holders at a Public Health Agency (PHA) and WHLGNI Conference Ambassador Awards and the Northern Ireland Chest separate event focusing on asbestos surveys. Heart and Stroke Well-being Awards. in November 2019. Ongoing advice to field staff has also included

The Advisory Service also promoted the Scientific Services training sessions on the health hazards and controls associated with welding fume and asbestos Management Standards within private industry Scientific ervicesS currently consists of four sampling. working alongside key stakeholders. Links were members of staff with a wide range of skills and established within the farming community in experience in the areas of asbestos and wider field During 2019-20 the Asbestos Advisory Service conjunction with the Farm Safety Partnership and of occupational hygiene. The team provides both provided asbestos related advice on 54 occasions to work commenced on the development of an online investigative support and technical advice to the members of the public and various stakeholders. resource for farmers. inspectorate. The unit also provides an Asbestos Scientific Services also provides field staff with the Work with other industry bodies, including the Mineral Advisory Service, primarily to the public, on asbestos related matters. provision of aerial photography using an unmanned Products Association Northern Ireland (MPANI), aerial vehicle (UAV). This additional service has enabled a tailored workshop to be delivered to As part of the Occupational Health and Hygiene provided a vital resource in connection with safety multiple employers within the quarry industry. Group, Scientific Services has increasingly focused related hazards connected to the extractive industry. on occupational hygiene related investigations in support of field staff. This practice has helped to

34 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 35 provisions of the EU. HSENI is making the necessary Department has provided a guarantee that any claim preparations to ensure Northern Ireland aligns with against the body in respect of liability to an employee Health and Safety the relevant EU legislation which covers a number of will, to any extent that it is unable to be satisfied by areas such as consumer goods, product safety and the body itself, be satisfied out of moneys provided chemicals. by the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Employers’ at Work Legislation Liability (Compulsory Insurance) (Amendment) Following the closure of the HSENI consultation Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019 were made on revised requirements for radiological protection on 22 October 2019 and added Comhairle na One of the key targets as detailed on HSENI’s Corporate Plan is on 25 May 2018, HSENI was heavily involved in the Gaelscolaíochta, the LRA, and the Northern Ireland development of two sets of proposed Regulations to ‘Maintain an up-to-date regulatory framework, including the Council for Integrated Education to the exemptions to implement, in Northern Ireland, the emergency in Schedule 2 to the 1999 Regulations. They also outworking of the UK’s exit from the EU, which affords appropriate preparedness and response elements of the Basic removed the Ilex Urban Regeneration Company Safety Standards Directive 2013. The Directive lays Limited, the Northern Ireland Legal Services protections and conditions to workers, while also supporting down minimum radiation safety standards for three Commission, the Northern Ireland Memorial Fund, businesses in terms of streamlining the requirements placed on them’. exposure groups: medical patients, workers and the Planning Appeals Commission and the Water members of the public. The resulting Carriage of Appeals Commission for Northern Ireland as, for Dangerous Goods (Amendment) Regulations 2019 various reasons, they no longer need to be included. and Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public During 2019-20 HSENI continued to be involved in a the Equipment and Protective Systems Intended Information) Regulations 2019 were made on 21 During the year, in order to implement Directive significant amount of work to ensure the operability for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres May 2019 and 26 September 2019 respectively. (EU) 2017/2398, HSENI initiated a consultation of the health and safety at work regulatory Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017. exercise on proposals for the ‘Revision of limit framework following the UK’s exit from the EU. Following consultation with Northern Ireland values in EH40/2005 “Workplace Exposure HSENI was involved in the preparation of two agency Departments, HSENI brought forward Regulations Limits” and Amendments to Mines Regulations Activity during the year agreements, one in relation to biocidal products to amend Schedule 2 to the Employer’s Liability (Northern Ireland) 2016’. The approval of the revised involving HSE (GB) and HSENI and one in relation to (Compulsory Insurance) Regulations (Northern During the year, HSENI continued work on legislation EH40/2005 Workplace Exposure Limits document classification, labelling and packaging involving HSE Ireland) 1999 (‘the 1999 Regulations’). This Schedule to address deficiencies and inoperabilities following was subsequently effected. (GB), DfE and DoJ. Both agreements were related lists public bodies that are exempt from purchasing the UK’s exit from the EU. to the UK’s exit from the EU and were finalised and employers liability insurance because the sponsor Details of work completed during 2019-20 include: The remaining legislation in this tranche had been signed by the Northern Ireland signatories. However, deferred from 2018-19 and, following the return HSE (GB) subsequently advised that, following of the NI Assembly in January 2020, the Minister enactment of the EU (Withdrawal Agreement) Act Northern Ireland Regulations prepared 2020, the agreements will need to be reviewed and for the Economy gave exceptional approval to the The Carriage of Dangerous Goods (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019 (S.R. 2019 No. 11) continued inclusion of Northern Ireland provisions amended as appropriate. The Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019 in Westminster legislation. This approval related When the UK left the EU on 31 January 2020 it (S.R. 2019 No. 185) to the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of entered the implementation period. During this The Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019 (S.R. Transportable Pressure Equipment (Amendment) period the UK is no longer a member of the EU but 2019 No. 205) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, on the basis of its continues to be subject to EU rules and remains a EU Exit Regulations prepared drafting being at an advanced stage and with member of the single market and customs union. Westminster legislation due to be laid imminently. This is designed to allow the UK to continue its The Product Safety, Metrology and Mutual Recognition Agreement (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations The Westminster scrutiny committees concluded current relationship with the EU while the future 2019 (S.I. 2019 No. 1246) that a different Parliamentary procedure should have trading relationship is negotiated. HSENI is currently Consultations initiated applied to the legislation and it was withdrawn by involved in a significant quantity of work to ensure the Department for Transport. As the legislation will that the health and safety at work regulatory Carcinogens and Mutagens – Revision of limit values in EH40/2005 ‘Workplace Exposure Limits’ and Amendments to Mines Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 now be revised, the Northern Ireland provisions will framework will be operable when the implementation be brought forward in a separate Northern Ireland period ends on 31 December 2020. In addition, Revised Approved Codes of Practice and Guidance published Statutory Rule. HSENI is also involved in an extensive body of work EH40/2005 Workplace exposure limits: Containing the list of workplace exposure limits for use with the HSENI also contributed to amendments to a to make preparations for the implementation of control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended) the Ireland – Northern Ireland Protocol, a specific Northern Ireland Statutory Rule that was included in Agency Agreements prepared a Westminster ‘no deal’ EU Exit Statutory Instrument. provision of the EU – UK Withdrawal Agreement The Product Safety, Metrology and Mutual designed to address the relationship between Agreement on classification, labelling and packaging with HSE (GB), DfE and DoJ (to be reviewed Recognition Agreement (Amendment) (EU Exit) Ireland and Northern Ireland following the UK following enactment of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement)) Act 2020 Regulations 2019 were made on 9 September 2019 withdrawal from the EU. The Protocol requires Agreement on biocidal products between HSE (GB) and HSENI (to be reviewed following enactment of and include a further EU exit related amendment to Northern Ireland to continue to align with certain the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement)) Act 2020

36 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 37 Case Management The impact of EU Exit on System HSENI’s activity and outcomes

The UK has now left the EU. The transition period HSENI will have an involvement in seventeen pieces HSENI operates an ICT system to manage casework, facilitating key is in place while the EU and UK negotiate new of legislation and, in some cases, the competent business processes and the work of staff within the organisation. arrangements for a trade deal. It will end on 31 authority role or the associated regulatory activity. December 2020. The Northern Ireland Protocol The system also provides online facilities for members of the public (NIP) in the Withdrawal Agreement will ensure that When the outcome of negotiations between the to complete statutory forms and provide key information. In order to the progress that the people of Northern Ireland EU and the UK is communicated, the approach have made in the 22 years since the Belfast (Good which will be required for the majority of this work will replace the previous case management solution which was no longer Friday) Agreement is secured into the future. The NIP become clearer. It will be new business for HSENI supported, HSENI tendered for a replacement in autumn 2016 and sets out a number of pieces of EU legislation which and will most likely require new staffing, new policies will continue to apply in Northern Ireland. The ones and procedures and new approaches. HSENI has after a CPD procurement tender exercise, the contract was awarded which are relevant to HSENI broadly fall into three established a small unit to plan for the delivery of its functions under the NIP. to Equiniti-ICS (incumbent supplier) on 26 October 2017. The new areas of work: CMS2 system was delivered and went LIVE at the end of May 2019. • maintaining an up-to-date regulatory framework;

• chemicals; and The new system provides a fully integrated case • product safety. management solution with workflow and document management extensions, data sharing/ external interfacing with other applications, online website form filling functionality, mobile device integration, form scanning of cases and a reporting tool facility for the generation of reports and production of statistics for management reports. CMS2 is a web- based application and business critical system which is used by 80% of HSENI staff and, on a daily basis, by approximately 50% of staff. Key improvements made as part of the redevelopment process include mobile/ tablet device integration with the system to allow field staff to access functionality in the field, improved reporting tools and improved data capture from paper based records.

38 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 39 The impact of COVID-19 on Long-term HSENI’s activity and outcomes Expenditure Trends

As the 2019-20 financial year drew to a close, the development of the HSENI is currently funded on a year by year basis. The budget COVID-19 pandemic and its incredible impact on the organisation allocation for 2020-21 has been set at a similar level to 2019- and its activities became apparent. Management and staff became 20 for revenue expenditure. During the 2019-20 financial year, acutely aware that HSENI’s work would change significantly as net expenditure increased with the introduction of an increase in a result of the crisis. HSENI’s headquarters and regional offices pension contributions brought about primarily by the reduction in the closed in response to Government guidance to work at home where SCAPE discount rate. The development of a new case management possible. Staff adapted to the new ‘remote working’ situation as the system was completed in 2019-20, procured with specific capital nature of the organisation’s inspectorate and advisory work was budget, over the past two financial years. High levels of capital now focused primarily on COVID-19 related incidents and queries. funding are not expected to be required in the organisation until the An unprecedented number of phone calls and emails in relation to new system requires replacement. HSENI does not foresee any COVID-19 concerns were received during the final weeks of 2019-20. significant adjustments to budget levels in the short-term as a result of management decisions but is subject to the impact of overall adjustments to the Northern Ireland block funding and Departmental As concerns grew throughout the world about the COVID-19 pandemic in March and the UK lockdown adjustments particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the was announced on 23 March 2020, there was some UK’s Exit from the EU. impact on the 2019-20 financial position. Savings were accrued as staff training courses that were scheduled in March were cancelled and travel and subsistence spend was reduced as a result of this, along with a reduction in physical site visits due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on activities.

HSENI’s versatility and expertise was evident as staff adapted quickly and professionally to new work methods, to handle the huge increase in requests for advice and assistance. The role of HSENI in assisting industry with what is in effect Public Health guidance and supporting co-regulators was difficult to quantify in advance. However from the beginning the challenge was taken up and delivered upon. The economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic will be far reaching and it is essential that we maintain a sustainable financial footing for HSENI.

40 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 41 While HSENI has confidence in the number of fatal Figure 4: Reported “Over 3 Day” Injuries injuries recorded, it is generally recognised that there 2015/16 - 2019/20 Statistics is a significant degree of under-reporting of incidents 2000 1902 1898 1906 in other categories. Nevertheless trends relating to - - - 1811 these categories can provide a useful indicator as to 1680 - general health and safety performance in Northern - Ireland. During the year there was 11% less non-fatal 1500 major injuries reported to HSENI than the number in The following information has been compiled for the work sectors the previous year as illustrated in Figure 3. that HSENI is responsible for under the Health and Safety (Enforcing 1000 Authority) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999. It must be borne in 500 mind that all figures for 2019-20 are provisional. Figure 3: Reported Major Injuries 2015/16 - 2019/20 Number of “Over 3 Day” Injuries 3 Day” of “Over Number

- I I I I I 500 0 Figure 1: Reported Fatal Injuries Analysis Figure 2: Reported Fatal Injuries Analysis 453 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 by work sector 2015/16 - 2019/20 by cause 2015/16 - 2019/20 - 411 - Year 400 - 18 17 357 - - 325 16 - - 290 300 - There were 1,811 reported ‘over 3 day’ injuries 20 14 during the year, which was a decrease of 95 (5%)

16 12 - when compared to the number in the previous year 11 11 200 15 - - as illustrated in Figure 4.

13 atal Injuries 10 9 12 - of Major Injuries Number 11 11 8 - 8 100

er of F - 10 6 Number of Fatalities of Fatalities Number I I I I I Numb 4 4 0 5 - 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2 1 Year 2 n n 0 0 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 alls F alls turn ding Other er xiation

Year Animal y Object Ove/ ■ Agriculture ■ Construction y Guar /Asphy truck bS ■ General Manufacturing ■ Transport / Storage ollapsC Vehicle Movement Movement Vehicle Machiner owningDr ■ Health Other Work Activities Cause

Figure 1 shows that there were 11 (P)8 fatal injuries Because of the small statistical base, HSENI during the reporting period, which represents a publishes analyses of fatal injury causations on decrease from the previous year’s figure of 139 . Of the basis of five-year records. The most recent the 11 fatal injuries during 2019-20, four occurred in analysis is shown in Figure 2. The most frequent construction, three in general manufacturing, one in causations over the last five years were falls, agriculture, one in transport, one in health and one in vehicle movements, being struck by an object, other work activities. animals, collapse/overturn, machinery guarding, and drowning/asphyxiation.

8 (P) These figures do not include fatalities where the investigation has not yet established sufficient details to make a decision on their inclusion. 9 This figure has been amended to reflect one further fatality which occurred during 2018-19.

42 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 43 Figure 5 represents the analysis of all injuries by Figure 6: Over 3 Day Injuries 2019/20 - Analysis Figure 7: Major Injuries 2019/20 - Analysis by Cause Figures 6 and 7 represent analyses of the causes work sector. However due to variances in levels of of both ‘Over 3 day’ and ‘major’ injuries at work. under-reporting between sectors, caution should be Handling, slips and trips, and being struck by an applied when attempting to draw any firm inferences object or vehicle accounted for the majority of ‘Over from these figures. 3 day’ injuries reported, while slips and trips, falls from height and being struck by an object or vehicle Figure 5: All reported Injuries accounted for the majority of ‘major’ injuries at work 2019/20 - Analysis by work sector 15% 11% during 2019-20. 24% 3% 30% 5% 4%

9% 9% 15% 17% 13% 17% 4% 26% 4% 17%

5% 50%

7%

15% ■ Handling (24%) ■ Slips / Trips (30%)

■ Struck by (inc vehicles) (17%) ■ Fall from a height (26%)

■ Slips / Trips (17%) ■ Struck by (inc vehicles) (17%)

■ Assault / Violence (13%) ■ Machinery (9%)

■ Public Sector (50%) ■ Fall from a height (9%) ■ Assault / Violence (4%)

■ Manufacturing Utilities & Docks (15%) Machinery (5%) Handling (3%)

■ Construction (7%) Remainder (15%) Remainder (11%)

■ Agriculture & Food (5%)

■ Major Hazards Gas & Transport (4%)

Extractive Industries & Waste (4%)

Remainder (15%)

44 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 45 Figure 8: Complaints Received 2015/16 - 2019/20 Figure 9: Reported Serious & Fatal Accidents HSENI and District Council Statistics Analysis 2015/16 - 2019/20 The information below reflects the Northern Ireland position relating to all regulatory bodies (HSENI and District Councils). Previous year’s final figures are shown in brackets. Figures for the current year are - 1200 60 provisional.. - 1110 -56 1100 - 55 52 1. Health and Safety at Work Statistics 2019-20 - 50 - 1000 -48 - 900 869 45 - 839 - 844 - - 813 - Fatal Injuries 13 (*12) 800 - 40 36 34 - -- 700 35 -- Major Injuries 364 (334) - 600 30 Over 3 Day Injuries 2290 (2153) - 500 25 ------Totals 2670 (*2499) - of accidents Number - 400 20

* This figure has been updated to reflect one further reportable fatality relating to 2018-19 - 300 15

- 200 10

- 100 5 2. Statistics by Enforcing Authority I I I I I I I I I I 0 0 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 Fatal Injuries Major Injuries Over 3 Day Injuries Year Year ■ Serious ■ Fatal HSENI *11 (13) 290 (325) 1811 (1906)

Figure 8 illustrates the number of complaints Figure 9 illustrates the number of serious and fatal District Councils 1 (4) 44 (39) 342 (384) received by HSENI relating to alleged unsatisfactory accidents over the period 2015-16 to 2019-20. This working conditions and work-related activities. figure provides details on whether or not HSENI is Totals 12 (17) 334 (364) 2153 (2290) This year saw a 32% increase in the number of meeting its Corporate Plan target of an average of complaints being made when compared to the no more than 50 over the lifespan of the Corporate previous year. This large increase can be attributed Plan (2018 – 2023). The graph shows that for the first to the significant number of complaints received two years of the Corporate Plan HSENI is well within by HSENI as a result of the emergence of the this target, and it is hoped that this will continue to COVID-19 pandemic in the last number of weeks of be the case for the duration of the Corporate Plan 3. Five Year Trends 2019-20. period.

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20

Fatal Injuries 13 18 13 *17 *12

Major Injuries 451 404 508 364 334

Over 3 Day Injuries 2313 2039 2231 2290 2153

Totals 2777 2461 2752 *2671 2499

* This figure has been updated to reflect one further reportable fatality relating to 2018-19

46 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 47 4. All Reportable Fatal Injuries 2014 39 22 2 63 2015 43** 24 3 70 Five Year Trend by Enforcing Authority 2016 45 17 1 63

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2017 47 30 - 77 2018 49 13 1 63 HSENI 12 16 11 *13 11 * For certain years these figures also include a small number of other asbestos related chest diseases and pulmonary fibrosis where there was District Councils 1 2 2 4 1 coexisting asbestos exposure ** In 2015 there are two mesothelioma cases included that were abdominal and testicular related. Totals 13 18 13 *17 12

* This figure has been updated to reflect one further reportable fatality relating to 2018-19 Table 2: Asbestos-related deaths in Northern Ireland 2009-2018: where asbestosis or mesothelioma are coded as the primary cause of death

Primary Cause Registration 5. Employee Fatal Injury Incident Rate – Comparison with Great Britain Year Mesothelioma Asbestosis* All primary cause

2009 42 5 47 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2010 35 4 39 NI Employees at June rounded to 10 730 732 756 774 784 2011 49 7 56 nearest thousand 2012 48 4 52 NI Fatal Injuries (Employees only) - 4 1 *6 6 2013 40 8 48 NI Fatal Injuries incidence rate - 0.55 0.13 *0.78 0.77 2014 41 8 49 per 100,000 employees 2015 44** 3 47 GB Fatal Injuries incidence rate 0.46 0.43 0.45 0.45 n/available per 100,000 employees 2016 43 7 50 2017 43 11 54

* This figure has been updated to reflect one further reportable fatality relating to 2018-19 2018 48 1 49

* For certain years these figures also include a small number of other asbestos related chest diseases and pulmonary fibrosis where there was coexisting asbestos exposure

6. Deaths caused, or contributed to, by Asbestos-Related Diseases ** In 2015 there are two mesothelioma cases included that were abdominal and testicular related.

Table 1: Asbestos-related deaths in Northern Ireland 2009-2018

Primary / Secondary Cause

Registration Mesothelioma Asbestosis* without Mesothelioma All primary or Year without asbestosis mesothelioma and asbestosis* secondary cause 2009 42 21 - 63 2010 34 15 1 50 2011 51 20 1 72 2012 48 13 1 62 2013 41 19 1 61

10Figures used for 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 reflect December for that financial year

48 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 49 • provide a response to an enquiry within 10 Future Developments in Health and Safety working days; Following the publication of HSENI’s draft Accountability Report • treat in confidence information that HSENI Corporate Plan for the period 2018-2023, HSENI receives unless it is required to disclose that will work towards achieving the aims of the Corporate Governance Report information for legal reasons; organisation as outlined in its mission by focusing on: • respond to requests for leaflets (subject to availability) within 5 working days; and • preventing the most serious workplace health Directors’ Report and safety issues; • ensure that complaints are dealt with quickly and effectively. • high risk industries and activities;

Directors Executive for Northern Ireland, 83 Ladas Drive, Service Complaints • sensible and proportionate risk management; Belfast, BT6 9FR or by emailing [email protected] The Head of HSENI’s Services Division is • effective regulation; and The directors of HSENI during 2019-20 included and marking your email ‘FAO Board Secretary’. the Chairman, Board Members and the Senior responsible for ensuring that complaints are dealt • supporting businesses and the economy. Management Team. The HSENI Chairman and Quality of Service with quickly and effectively. During the year there Board Members during 2019-20 were Derek were eleven formal complaints received about During 2020-21, HSENI aims to: Martin (Chair), Hilary Singleton (Deputy Chair), In order to support its key objectives and targets, the service provided by HSENI. Each of these Billy Graham, John Kane, Maynard Mawhinney, HSENI: complaints was dealt with in accordance with • work with employers and employees to provide HSENI’s published complaints procedure. advice and guidance and ensure health and Harry Sinclair, Lindsey Smith and Tom Wright. • operates in a consistent and co-ordinated safety concerns are addressed in relation to The Senior Management Team during 2019-20 manner in the appliance of Service First Data Security the COVID-19 pandemic; was comprised of the Chief Executive, Robert principles; Kidd, and three Deputy Chief Executives, Bryan HSENI continues to review and assess the • do all it can to ensure that front line services Monson, Nicola Monson and Louis Burns. • treats all its customers in an open, fair and effectiveness of its internal processes which are maintained and all priority health and safety impartial way; support the Security Policy Framework. During Principal Activities areas are addressed despite the challenges 2019-20 HSENI reviewed its implementation • puts things right if they go wrong and explains faced by the organisation as a result of the of specific policies and procedures designed The principal activities of HSENI in the course how to complain if dissatisfied; COVID-19 pandemic; of the year are set out in detail in the Strategic to maintain compliance with the General Data Report, with the Performance section providing a • ensures that suppliers are paid promptly in line Protection Regulations (GDPR) which came • maintain its focus as far as possible on good overview. with Better Payment Practice; into effect on 25 May 2018. This included the occupational health issues, including conducting of a GDPR audit. We remain in close occupational lung disorders, occupational Donations • maintains good industrial relations and liaises contact with our sponsor Department and indeed cancers and mental health at work, in line with regularly with Trade Union representatives; the wider NICS to ensure compliance with the our aim to make workplaces healthier; HSENI made no charitable or political donations legislation and the adoption of best practice in during the year. • has an independent customer satisfaction • launch its third Farm Safety Partnership Action relation to the Data Protection Act 2018. survey carried out within the lifetime of its Plan for the 2020-2023 period; Pension Liabilities Corporate Plan; and While the UK government has committed to full • carry out a series of inspection initiatives Information on how pension liabilities are treated alignment with the GDPR, we will continue to • exploits the benefits of information technology aimed at priority issues including work at in the accounts is given in note 2 (b) of the Notes monitor developments relating to the UK’s exit in the delivery of its service. height, safe plant and safe maintenance, to the Executive’s Accounts, and a reference to from the EU. We do not anticipate any immediate machinery guarding and vehicle pedestrian the statements of the relevant pension scheme is Service First - Key Customer Standards challenges. segregation, as well as health topics such contained in the Remuneration Report. HSENI endeavours to operate at all times HSENI’s key objectives and risks are regularly as Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), silica, Register of Interests to its Service First standards as set out in assessed to ensure consistency of treatment. licensed asbestos work and welding fumes in HSENI’s Customer Care Charter and which are The risk to information security is considered the engineering industry; The HSENI Board is supported by a secretariat, reproduced below. We will: as an integral part of this process, particularly in • undertake at least 5,000 inspections across all located within Corporate Support Group, which relation to risk of damage to HSENI’s reputation. is responsible for the maintenance of a register • identify ourselves by name on the telephone work sectors for which HSENI is responsible, of interests that contains details of company and in letters. Field staff will carry identification; Personal Data Related Incidents aimed at improving levels of compliance with directorships and other significant interests held health and safety standards, raising workplace • meet personal callers, with or without an During the 2019-20 year HSENI had one by Board members which may conflict with their health as a priority issue during all inspections appointment, within 5 minutes of arrival; reportable data incident which the ICO decided management responsibilities. Access to the in sectors where known health risks exist; that no further action was required on this information in that Register can be obtained by occasion. writing to the Board Secretary, Health and Safety

50 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 51 • continue to work with a range of public and he and his staff are wholly independent of the Statement of Accounting The Accounting Officer of the Department sector bodies in reducing sickness absence Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland. Officer’s Responsibilities for the Economy has designated the Chief associated with work-related stress; and He reports his findings to the Northern Ireland Executive as Accounting Officer of the Health Assembly. The audit of the financial statements Under the Health and Safety at Work (Northern and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland. The • ensure an effective health and safety at for 2019-20 resulted in an audit fee of £13,500 Ireland) Order 1978 as amended by the Health responsibilities of an Accounting Officer, including work regulatory framework, including making and is included in the other operating charges in and Safety at Work (Amendment) (Northern responsibility for the propriety and regularity of necessary preparations for the UK leaving the the Net Expenditure Account. Ireland) Order 1998, the Department for the the public finances for which the Accounting EU. Economy has directed the Health and Safety Officer is answerable, for keeping proper records The C&AG did not provide any non-audit services Executive for Northern Ireland to prepare for each Policy Development and for safeguarding the Health and Safety during the year. As the Accounting Officer, financial year a statement of accounts in the Executive for Northern Ireland’s assets, are set HSENI is aware that strategies must continuously HSENI’s Chief Executive is responsible for form and on the basis set out in the Accounts out in MPMNI published by HM Treasury. evolve and develop with changing circumstances maintaining a sound system of internal control Direction. The accounts are prepared on an and, therefore, HSENI will ensure that its that supports the achievement of HSENI’s accruals basis and must give a true and fair view As the Accounting Officer, I have taken all the strategies continue to be effective and consistent policies, aims and objectives whilst safeguarding of the state of affairs of the Health and Safety steps that I ought to have taken to make myself with the broader Government policy framework the public funds and HSENI assets in accordance Executive for Northern Ireland and of its income aware of any relevant audit information and to and meet the needs of the local economy. with the responsibilities set out in Managing and expenditure, Statement of Financial Position establish that HSENI’s auditors are aware of that Public Money Northern Ireland (MPMNI). and cash flows for the financial year. information. So far as I am aware, there is no Other Developments relevant audit information of which the auditors So far as the Accounting Officer is aware, there is In preparing the accounts, the Accounting Officer are unaware. There were no important events affecting no relevant audit information of which the auditor is required to comply with the requirements of the HSENI which have occurred since the end of the is unaware, and the Accounting Officer has taken Government Financial Reporting Manual and in financial year. all the steps that he ought to have taken to make particular to: himself aware of any relevant audit information Robert Kidd Audit and to establish that the auditor is aware of that • observe the Accounts Direction issued by Chief Executive information. the Department for the Economy including Date: 15 October 2020 The financial statements are audited by the the relevant accounting and disclosure Comptroller and Auditor General for Northern requirements, and apply suitable accounting Ireland (C&AG) in accordance with the Health and policies on a consistent basis; Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 Robert Kidd as amended by the Health and Safety at Work Chief Executive • make judgements and estimates on a (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 1998. The Date: 15 October 2020 reasonable basis; C&AG is Head of the Northern Ireland Audit Office • state whether applicable accounting standards as set out in the Government Financial Reporting Manual have been followed, and disclose and explain any material departures in the financial statements;

• prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis; and

• confirm that the Annual Report and Accounts as a whole is fair, balanced and understandable and take personal responsibility for the Annual Report and Accounts and the judgements for determining that it is fair, balanced and understandable.

52 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 53 Governance Statement: Introduction

This is the sixth Governance Statement for the Health and Safety

Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI). Derek Martin Hilary Singleton Billy Graham Chairman Deputy Chair

It reflects HSENI’s governance, risk management 1. HSENI’s Board and internal control arrangements as they have operated during the 2019-20 financial year. It HSENI’s Board oversees the aims and objectives also provides details of future actions planned of the organisation within the wider strategic aims by the HSENI to mitigate risks and to address of DfE, HSENI’s sponsor Department. It supports any internal control weaknesses that have been the Chief Executive by providing collective identified. leadership and taking ownership of HSENI’s performance. Organisation and Structures During 2019-20, HSENI’s Board comprised of The key organisational structures which support eight members including the Chairman, Derek the delivery of corporate governance in HSENI Martin. The Board Members are appointed for John Kane Lindsey Smith Harry Sinclair are: three years (renewable for a further period of up to three years) by the Departmental Minister, 1. the HSENI Board; in line with the Code of Practice issued by the 2. the Audit and Risk Management Committee; Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland. The Board is comprised entirely 3. the Remuneration Committee; of independent members. Its membership during 2019-20 was as follows: 4. Monthly Senior Management Team meetings; and

5. Quarterly Oversight and Liaison meetings with HSENI’s sponsoring body, the Department for the Economy (DfE).

Tom Wright Maynard Mawhinney

HSENI’s Governance Framework

Corporate Governance refers to the way in which organisations are directed and controlled. HSENI’s governance framework, which ensures the effectiveness of the direction and control of the Department, is set out in the following paragraphs.

54 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 55 While HSENI is a Crown body and its staff are the activities of HSENI; and provides positive governance requirements for the Minutes of these meetings are published on civil servants, the Board is the employer of assurance to the Department that appropriate organisation; and HSENI’s website. HSENI staff and is responsible for appointing action has been taken on such concerns; its Chief Executive and for setting appropriate (vii) anti-fraud policies and whistleblowing 5. Quarterly Oversight and Liaison Meetings • demonstrates high standards of corporate processes. remuneration for this post. The Board contributes Oversight and Liaison meetings with DfE are to the good governance of HSENI by offering governance at all times, including using the independent Audit and Risk Management The ARMC also periodically reviews its own held on a quarterly basis. The agendas for constructive challenge across all of HSENI’s effectiveness and reports the results of that these meetings contain standing items which business. This is with a view to ensuring that all Committee, to help the Board to address the key financial and other risks facing HSENI; and review to the Board. The last review was include performance monitoring, budgetary and aspects of strategy and delivery of policy are completed in relation to the 2018-19 year in June finance matters, risk management and corporate scrutinised for effectiveness and efficiency. • appoints with the Department’s approval, a 2019 and submitted to the Board at its meeting governance. HSENI’s SMT and Board Chair attend Day-to-day operational matters are the Chief Executive to HSENI and, in consultation on 14 June 2019. The points highlighted for these meetings with representatives from DfE’s responsibility of the Chief Executive and Deputy with the Department, sets performance consideration following this self-assessment sponsor branch and any matters of note are Chief Executives that make up HSENI’s Senior objectives and remuneration terms linked to exercise were: reported to HSENI’s Board by the Chief Executive Management Team. these objectives for the Chief Executive, which and Board Chair. • The inclusion of details on appointment The Board has corporate responsibility for give due weight to the proper management and use of public monies. letters to ARMC members relating to both Corporate and Business Planning ensuring that HSENI fulfils the aims and the appointment duration and how individual objectives set by DfE and approved by the 2. HSENI’s Audit and Risk Management performance will be appraised will provide Within the policy and resources framework set Minister, and for promoting the efficient, Committee members with further clarity on expectations by the Department’s Minister and the Executive, economic and effective use of staff and other in terms of commitment and performance as HSENI’s Board sets the strategic and annual resources by HSENI. To this end, and in pursuit of The Board is supported in its role by HSENI’s ARMC members; direction of the organisation through the its wider corporate responsibilities, the Board: Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC), corporate and business planning process. A which is a sub-committee of the Board. During • ARMC members will liaise with HSENI Corporate Plan, which aligns with the Executive’s • establishes the overall strategic direction 2019-20 the ARMC was chaired by a Board management to ensure that an IT Assist Programme for Government and Budget, is of HSENI within the policy and resources Member, Hilary Singleton. The ARMC also representative attends an ARMC meeting to normally prepared every three years. HSENI’s framework determined by the sponsor Minister included three other Board Members, Lindsey provide members with information on cyber draft Corporate Plan covering the period 2018 and Department, particularly under the Smith, Tom Wright and Harry Sinclair. Other risk management. This will ensure members – 2023 was published in draft in the absence Department’s Management Statement and attendees include HSENI officials and observers, fully understand the risks associated with of a Minister on 3 October 2018 and following Financial Memorandum for HSENI; namely representatives of Northern Ireland Audit cyber security and the assurances they should the formally approved by the Minister for the • constructively challenges the HSENI’s Office (NIAO) and HSENI’s externally appointed seek to ensure this risk is being managed Economy on 4 March 2020. More detailed executive team in their planning, target setting Internal Auditors. The role of the ARMC is to within HSENI; and Operating Plans are prepared on an annual and delivery of performance; provide reassurance to the Board by overseeing: basis. The detailed stages of the corporate and • The need to update HSENI’s Whistleblowing business planning processes are built into the • ensures that the Department is kept informed (i) strategic processes for risk, control and Arrangements to reflect the ARMC Chair’s HSENI’s Board work programme. of any changes which are likely to impact on governance, and the annual Governance responsibility in the process. Statement; Secretariat the strategic direction of HSENI or on the 3. Remuneration Committee attainability of its targets, and determines the (ii) accounting policies, the accounts, and the The Board is supported by a secretariat, located steps needed to deal with such changes; annual report of the organisation, including The Remuneration Committee normally meets within Corporate Support Group, which is the processes for review of the accounts once a year to review the performance of the responsible for maintenance of a register of • ensures that any statutory or administrative Chief Executive and to recommend to the requirements for the use of public funds prior to submission for audit, levels of error interests. An agenda and papers are circulated identified, and management’s letter of Department the Chief Executive’s pay award. one week in advance of each meeting and are complied with; that the Board operates During 2019-20, the Committee, comprised of within the limits of its statutory authority representation to the external auditors; a record of meetings is circulated to Board the Chair, Derek Martin, the Deputy Chair, Hilary members and posted on HSENI’s website after and any delegated authority agreed with the (iii) the planned activity and results of both Singleton and Board member, Billy Graham, Department, and in accordance with any other the following board meeting. New members are internal and external audit; discussed the Chief Executive’s 2019-20 provided with an induction pack and programme. conditions relating to the use of public funds; objectives at its meeting in April 2019. and that, in reaching decisions, the Board takes (iv) proposals for tendering for internal audit Board Attendance into account all relevant guidance issued by services or for purchase of non-audit services 4. Monthly Senior Management Team Meeting DoF and the Department; from contractors who provide audit services; During the 2019-20 year, HSENI’s Board met a HSENI’s monthly Senior Management Team total of five times. Details of the attendance of • ensures that the Board receives and reviews (v) adequacy of management responses to Meeting is the regular formal meeting of senior individuals who were board members during the regular financial information concerning issues identified by audit activity, including management to discuss ongoing operational year are as follows: the management of HSENI; is informed in a external audit’s management letter; issues. It is chaired by the Chief Executive and timely manner about any concerns about attended by the three Deputy Chief Executives. (vi) assurances relating to the corporate

56 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 57 (iv) the ARMC’s views on risk management. forecast expenditure throughout the year. Whilst every effort was made to try to ensure that the Board Member Number of Meetings Attended Out of a possible The ARMC was generally content with the organisation remained within the 1% tolerance quality of assurances it received during 2019-20 level, the challenges faced by the late budget Derek Martin 5 5 including the management of risk and the quality confirmation coupled with the emergence of of internal and external audit. Hilary Singleton 5 5 the COVID-19 pandemic meant that HSENI’s Risk Management underspend stood at 2.5% at year end. John Kane 3 5 HSENI’s approach is to assign risks to those best • Failure to maintain functions and services of HSENI due to budgetary pressures Billy Graham 1 5 placed to manage them, whilst maintaining clear accountability. HSENI manages risk at a corporate Regular financial planning meetings between Maynard Mawhinney 5 5 level, supported by internal processes. SMT and Finance as well as prioritisation of Corporate Risks are managed collectively by the work ensured continued service delivery during Lindsey Smith 5 4 Senior Management Team, with ownership of the 2019-20. SMT also reviewed priorities with heads risks assigned to the Accounting Officer. HSENI’s of group to ensure statutory functions were Harry Sinclair 5 5 Senior Management Team formally reviews the met and funding was allocated to essential and Corporate Risk Register on a quarterly basis, with priority areas of work. Regular discussions took Tom Wright 5 5 a further review at each meeting of the ARMC. place with DfE throughout the year to promote HSENI’s Board also receives a full copy of the the importance of HSENI’s work and the potential Corporate Risk Register at each meeting. impact of a further reduction in budget. During the 2019-20 year, issues considered by staff members. All interests of both Board HSENI’s Board included: Members and SMT are recorded on a Register HSENI has its own Risk Management Policy which • Ineffective governance leading to poor of Interests. This is updated as any new defines the roles and responsibilities within the value for money, fraud, loss of public funds (i) HSENI’s annual budget allocation and issues appointments occur to ensure that any conflict organisation for the management and mitigation or irregular expenditure arising therefrom; is recognised immediately. Conflicts of interest of risk. The policy also outlines HSENI’s risk HSENI has clear roles and responsibilities in are also declared at the beginning of all Board (ii) management accounting information relating appetite in relation to each of the nine key outputs place with regard to identifying, investigating and Audit and Risk Management Committee to the actual use of financial resources; (activities) the organisation carries out in order to and managing any suspected cases of fraud. Meetings and members will excuse themselves achieve its objectives. There are a number of key operational and (iii) human resource issues, including managing from the relevant discussion as necessary. No corporate governance controls that help ensure attendance and staffing pressures; conflicts of interest were declared at any of the Corporate risks being managed at 31 March that the likelihood of this risk is minimised. Board meetings or Audit and Risk Management 2020 and key actions being taken in mitigation These include the existence of an Audit and (iv) legislative progress and proposals, with Committee meetings during the year. related to: particular focus on the UK’s Exit from the EU; Risk Management Committee, an internal audit Audit and Risk Management Committee • Failure to manage HSENI’s budget service, as well as Fraud and Whistleblowing (v) progress in relation to outputs and outcomes Reports efficiently resulting in a significant under Policies and biannual Assurance Statements (performance targets); and or overspend. provided to DfE’s Permanent Secretary. Following each meeting of the ARMC, HSENI’s Following the establishment of DfE’s Fraud (vi) the identification and management of risk. Board is provided with the draft minutes of the During 2019-20 the very late confirmation of and Raising Concerns Unit, HSENI revised its the annual budget meant that there was a risk Board Performance and Effectiveness meeting supplemented by a verbal report from Fraud and Raising Concerns (Whistleblowing) the ARMC Chair. of a significant underspend due to the fact that policies to ensure these reflected the roles and HSENI’s Board members’ performance is decisions on recruitment and training were responsibilities of the new Unit and to ensure the The Chair also provides an annual report appraised annually by the Chair of the Board and delayed and much of the budget spend only organisation’s policies reflected best practice to HSENI’s Board which summarises the the Chair’s performance is appraised annually by started after the budget had been confirmed. as advised by DfE. Routine governance returns Committee’s work for the year. The report the Grade 5 in the Department for the Economy’s In the latter part of the year, the COVID-19 to the Department, including mid and end- includes: Sponsor Branch. The Board also reviews its pandemic added to the significant disruption year Assurance Statements, were temporarily to finance, specifically in relation to the ability own performance to ensure compliance with (i) details of meetings, membership and suspended in light of the COVID-19 crisis at the to receipt goods and services and due to the the Corporate Governance Code. The last self- attendance; end of the period to allow staff to concentrate on assessment exercise was completed in July 2019 cancellation of training courses and a significant frontline issues associated with the pandemic. and the next review is scheduled for 2022. (ii) a summary of the findings from the ARMC’s decrease in travel and subsistence before However, these were reinstated at the start of review of its effectiveness; year end. Meetings between SMT and Finance 2020-21 and the Assurance Statement reflecting Conflicts of Interest staff throughout the year, as well as monthly HSENI’s position at the end of 2019-20 was (iii) a summary of work undertaken during the budget profiling returns from budget holders HSENI has a Conflicts of Interest Policy for subsequently submitted to the Department. year; and to Finance, helped ensure that management both Non-Executive Board members and all and Finance were kept informed of actual and

58 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 59 • Damage to HSENI’s reputation as regulator Unit staff to address the recommendations made. would cause difficulties as HSENI does not have Freedom of Information (FOI) and as a result of legal proceedings or adverse a policy function and no experience of drafting Environmental Information media coverage • Disruption to service delivery legislation etc. HSENI is seeking advice from the Regulations (EIR) Requests A major disruption to business delivery may result Departmental Solicitors’ Office (DSO) in order to Damage to HSENI’s reputation could lead to poor help prevent this risk from materialising. organisational creditability. The organisation from a number of causes. HSENI has mitigated The Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the therefore treats this as a significant risk and this risk by having Emergency Planning Controls, 2. Impact of the UK’s exit from the EU on Environmental Information Regulations 2004 has a number of controls in place to mitigate Information Technology Controls, Information operational/ enforcement activities; give everyone the right to access government this risk. This includes the maintenance of a Security Controls and Operational Controls in information and place a statutory duty on strong corporate governance ethic and control place. Staffing pressures which materialised Uncertainty in Chemicals and Product Safety government to make certain information publicly procedures by both HSENI’s Board and staff during the year as a result of the late confirmation around the future role of HSENI in relation to the available as a matter of course. A total of 205 members. Performance of the organisation of the 2019-20 budget, as well as the emergence NI Protocol resulted in this emerging risk being ‘Requests for Information’, falling within the terms is regularly monitored by HSENI’s Senior of the COVID-19 pandemic, were closely added to the risk register. The potential for HSENI of this legislation, were received within the period Management Team and the Board. In the final monitored by HSENI’s SMT, Board and ARMC. to have to take on new enforcement activities of this report. HSENI’s Business Continuity Plan was revised associated with EU Exit will result in financial and weeks of the financial year, HSENI received a Subject Access Requests significant amount of media attention as a result during the year and issued to all staff in light of resource issues for the organisation. HSENI is of the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic Storm Ciara in February 2020. The emergence of currently liaising closely with HSE (GB) and other The Data Protection Act 2018 and the General and HSENI’s role in ensuring the safe working COVID-19 in the final weeks of the year resulted UK Government Departments on this issue but Data Protection Regulations gives individuals the conditions of employees across a number in the Pandemic Flu Plan being invoked as the the uncertainties surrounding the outworkings right to access their own personal data through of industries. Queries were considered and building closed and staff moved to remote of the NI Protocol mean that the likelihood of this the making of a Subject Access Requests. During responded to by HSENI’s Senior Management working. HSENI’s Chief Executive maintained risk materialising remains unknown. the 2019-20 year HSENI received a total of two regular contact with staff through the SMS Text team and Communications Team in order to 3. COVID-19’s impact on the ability to meet requests falling within the terms of this legislation. minimise reputational damage. Alert Service. operational targets. Internal Audit • Failure to manage, maintain and secure • Disruption to service delivery – COVID-19 The potential impact of COVID-19 on HSENI’s HSENI has externally appointed Internal Auditors, personal data and information leading During Quarter 4 of 2019-20 HSENI added a new ability to meet operational targets was added who operate to HM Treasury’s Public Sector to legal proceedings and fines from ICO risk to the risk register to reflect the potential as an emerging risk during the last quarter of Internal Audit Standards. The Internal Auditors and failure to comply with General Data disruption to service delivery as a result of 2019-20. Actions taken to address this potential construct their annual audit programme on the Protection Regulation (GDPR) and ICO COVID-19. A number of staff were unable to work risk include revision of the 2020-21 Operating basis of an Internal Audit Strategy covering the guidance remotely at the start of the pandemic, inspections Plan in light of COVID-19, regular liaison between period 2017-18 to 2019-20 and also take into HSENI has a number of policies which have were temporarily suspended and there was a SMT with DfE, the Board and staff to ensure account the objectives and risks faced by HSENI, been disseminated to all staff to help ensure significant rise in the number of complaints being information is communicated in a timely manner including any emerging risks. The Internal Audit this risk does not materialise. These include received by the Notifications team as a result and that essential services are prioritised programme for 2019-20 was agreed by the Data Protection, Information Security and of the COVID-19 crisis. The potential impact on throughout the pandemic. ARMC. Data Management Breach policies. Mandatory staff sickness levels was also unknown and these Six Monthly Assurance Statements HSENI’s Internal Auditors submit regular reports information management training is also issues were all highlighted on the risk register. to the ARMC which include the Head of Internal undertaken by all staff on a regular basis. Controls in place to help mitigate the risk of Every six months HSENI’s Chief Executive business disruption towards the end of the year provides an Assurance Statement to DfE’s Audit’s independent opinion on the adequacy, Since the implementation of GDPR regulations and to date in 2020-21 include close monitoring Permanent Secretary, who is the Departmental reliability and effectiveness of HSENI’s system in May 2018, HSENI has carried out a number of of the situation by SMT, regular updates to staff Accounting Officer for DfE. This six monthly of internal control. During the year, HSENI exercises in order to ensure the organisation is via e-mail and SMS, regular communication with statement confirms the efficacy of the systems received a ‘satisfactory’ assurance on five out fully compliant with GDPR. Staff have received the Board and DfE on the difficulties being faced of internal control within HSENI and, where of six areas reviewed. One audit completed in GDPR training, and all newly recruited staff will by the organisation and the prioritisation of work appropriate, draws the attention of the Permanent relation to Data Protection (GDPR) Arrangements receive GDPR training on appointment. Data to ensure essential services were being delivered. Secretary to any significant internal control resulted in a ‘limited’ assurance. An action plan to Sharing Agreements are in place for those issues during 2019-20. The emergence of the address a number of recommendations has been organisations with which HSENI shares personal As at 31 March 2020, HSENI’s risk register developed and work is under way to complete the included three ‘Emerging Risks’. COVID-19 pandemic in the final weeks of 2019- data. During the period, HSENI’s internal audit 20 led to the temporary suspension of a number necessary work. A ‘satisfactory’ assurance was service provider carried out a review of HSENI’s 1. Failure to maintain an up to date regulatory of corporate governance returns, including the provided on Internal Audit’s Annual Assurance Data Protection arrangements, including GDPR. framework as a result of the UK’s exit from Year End Assurance Statement, as staff dealt with Report in relation to the adequacy of the systems The review resulted in a ‘limited’ assurance. This the EU; a significant increase in workloads as a result of of control in place within HSENI, in line with the has been highlighted to HSENI’s Board, ARMC the crisis. This was subsequently requested for Internal Audit Strategic Plan, and their operation and DfE. An action plan has been developed and This emerging risk was added to the risk register submission to the Department in May 2020. for the period ended 31 March 2020. a significant amount of work has already been as the giving of any status to NI which could lead undertaken by HSENI’s Information Management to an immediate or future divergence from GB

60 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 61 Compliance with the Corporate Governance by DoF’s Internal Audit Service and information on Code absenteeism is supplied to departments by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency Remuneration HSENI is content that it is compliant with both (NISRA). The data is subject to challenge or to the spirit and the principles of the ‘Corporate requests for further information/clarification by Governance in Central Government Departments: the Board. The Board was content with the quality Report Code of Good Practice NI 2013’ issued by the of information it received during 2019-20. Department of Finance and Personnel (now Department of Finance) in April 2013, in so much Ministerial Directions Remuneration Policy Service Contracts as they can be read across to NDPBs. No Ministerial Directions were issued during the The pay policy for the Northern Ireland (NI) public The Civil Service Commissioners (NI) Order Quality of Data Used by HSENI’s Board 2019-20 financial ear.y sector, including senior civil servants (SCS), is 1999 requires Civil Service appointments to normally approved by the Minister of Finance. In be made on merit on the basis of fair and open HSENI’s Board is issued with the most up-to- Public Accounts Committee Issues the absence of an Executive, the Department of competition. The Recruitment Code published date data sources ahead of each board meeting. Finance’s Permanent Secretary set the 2019-20 by the Civil Service Commissioners for Northern The data is collated into a number of key reports, HSENI was not required to provide evidence to NI public sector pay policy (October 2019) in line Ireland specifies the circumstances when drawn from a wide range of sources, covering the Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee with the overarching HMT parameters and in a appointments may be made otherwise. the core functions of the organisation, including during 2019-20. manner consistent with the approach taken by budgets and finance, performance monitoring, the previous Finance Minister in 2016-17. Annual Unless otherwise stated, the officials covered legislation, human resources, investigations and NICS pay awards are made in the context of the by this report hold appointments that are prosecutions, all of which are subject to internal Robert Kidd wider public sector pay policy. The pay award for open-ended. Early termination, other than audit scrutiny. The Board also draws assurance Chief Executive NICS staff, including SCS staff, for 2019-20 has for misconduct, would result in the individual from the fact that data relating to financial Date: 15 October 2020 been finalised but not yet paid. receiving compensation as set out in the Civil information and absenteeism is derived from Service Compensation Scheme.

NICS wide systems such as Account NI and HR The pay of SCS is based on a system of pay Connect. These systems are subject to scrutiny scales for each SCS grade containing a number Further information about the work of the Civil of pay points from minima to maxima, allowing Service Commissioners can be found at progression towards the maxima based on www.nicscommissioners.org. performance. Salary and Pension Entitlements Remuneration Committee (audited information)

The Remuneration Committee meets once a year The following sections provide details of the to review the performance of the Chief Executive remuneration and pension interests of the senior and to recommend to the Department the Chief members of HSENI. Executive’s pay award.

The committee comprises the Chairman and Deputy Chairman together with one other Board member. The composition of the committee which met during 2019/20 was Derek Martin, Hilary Singleton and Billy Graham.

Board salaries are set by the Public Appointments Unit in the Department for the Economy.

62 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 63 Remuneration (including salary) Bonuses and pension entitlements Bonuses are based on performance levels attained and are made as part of the appraisal process. 2019-20 2018-19 Bonuses relate to the performance in the year in which they become payable to the individual. No bonuses were payable to senior staff in 2019-20 or 2018-19. Senior Salary Pension Total Salary Pension Total

Management Benefits Benefits (to nearest (to nearest (£’000) Pay Multiples (audited information) £’000 £1000)* (£’000) £’000 £1000)*

Robert Kidd 70-75 132 200-205 10-15 25 35-40 2019-20 2018-19 Chief Executive (65-70 (90-95 (from 28 January 2019) full year full year Band of Highest Paid Director’s Total equivalent) equivalent) 70-75 65-70 Remuneration* (£000) Louis Burns 60-65 38 95-100 55-60 44 100-105 Deputy Chief Executive Median Total Remuneration (£) 38,096 36,812

Bryan Monson 60-65 27 90-95 60-65 32 95-100 Deputy Chief Executive Ratio 1.9 1.9

Nicola Monson 60-65 37 100-105 60-65 33 95-100 Deputy Chief Executive Range of Staff Remuneration (£) 19-71 18-70

* The value of pension benefits accrued during the year is calculated as (the real increase in pension multiplied by 20) plus (the real * Total remuneration includes salary, non-consolidated performance-related pay, and benefits-in-kind. It does not include severance increase in any lump sum) less (the contributions made by the individual). The real increases exclude increases due to inflation and payments, employer pension contributions and the cash equivalent transfer value of pensions. any increase or decrease due to a transfer of pension rights. Reporting bodies are required to disclose the median remuneration of the workforce, which was relationship between the remuneration of the £38,096 (2018-19, £36,812). None of the senior members of HSENI received highest-paid director in their organisation and bonuses in 2019-20 (2018-19: none) and none the median remuneration of the organisation’s In 2019-20, 0 (2018-19, 0) employees received of the senior members received benefits in kind workforce. remuneration in excess of the highest-paid during the years 2019-20 or 2018-19. director. The banded remuneration of the highest-paid director in HSENI in the financial year 2019-20 Remuneration ranged from £19,000 – £71,000 was £70,000 - £75,000 (2018-19, £65,000 – (2018-19, £18,000 to £70,000). 2019-20 2018-19 £70,000). This was 1.9 times (2018-19, 1.9) the Board Members Salary £’000 Salary £’000

Derek Martin 15-20 15-20 Chairperson

Billy Graham, John Kane, Maynard 0-5 0-5 Mawhinney, Harry Sinclair, Hilary Singleton, Lindsey Smith, Tom Wright

Salary Benefits in kind

‘Salary’ includes gross salary; overtime; reserved The monetary value of benefits in kind covers rights to London weighting or London allowances; any benefits provided by the employer and recruitment and retention allowances; private treated by HM Revenue and Customs as a taxable office allowances and any other allowance to the emolument. No such benefits were received by extent that it is subject to UK taxation and any HSENI staff or Board members. severance or ex gratia payments.

64 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 65 Pension Entitlements (audited information) cost of living. New entrants joining on or after 1 figure for the preceding September. The CPI in October 2002 and before 30 July 2007 could September 2019 was 1.7% and HM Treasury has Accrued pension at Real increase in pension Real choose between membership of premium or announced that public service pensions will be CETV at CETV at pension age as at 31/3/20 and related lump sum at increase 31/3/20 31/3/19 joining the partnership pension account. increased accordingly from April 2020. and related lump sum pension age in CETV All pension benefits are reviewed annually in line Employee contribution rates for all members for Senior Management £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 with changes in the cost of living. Any applicable the period covering 1st April 2020 – 31st March increases are applied from April and are 2021 are as follows: Robert Kidd Chief Executive 30-35 plus a lump sum of 5-7.5 plus a lump sum of determined by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) 549 424* 103 70-75 12.5-15

Scheme Year 1st April 2020 to 31st March 2021 Louis Burns Deputy Chief Executive 25-30 plus a lump sum of 0-2.5 plus a lump sum of 448 400* 23 55-60 0-2.5 Annualised Rate of Pensionable Earnings Contribution rates – (Salary Bands) All members

Bryan Monson Deputy Chief Executive 25-30 plus a lump sum of 0-2.5 plus a lump sum of 472 436* 14 From To From 01 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 50-55 0-2.5 £0 £23,999.99 4.6% Nicola Monson Deputy Chief Executive 20-25 plus a lump sum of 0-2.5 plus a lump sum of £24,000.00 £55,499.99 5.45% 415 371** 24 45-50 0-2.5 £55,500.00 £152,499.99 7.35%

* These figures were reported as £1k higher in the 2018-19 Annual Report, as per CSP calculations £152,500.00 and above 8.05%

** This figure was reported as £7k lower in the 2018-19 Annual Report, as per CSP calculations

Board members are not included in the NICS Pension Scheme. Benefits in classic accrue at the rate of 1/80th The accrued pension quoted is the pension the of pensionable salary for each year of service. In member is entitled to receive when they reach Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) Pension throughout the period of scheme membership. addition, a lump sum equivalent to three years’ their scheme pension age, or immediately on Schemes The current accrual rate is 2.32%. pension is payable on retirement. For premium, ceasing to be an active member of the scheme if benefits accrue at the rate of 1/60th of final they are at or over pension age. Scheme Pension Pension benefits are provided through the New entrants joining can choose between pensionable earnings for each year of service. age is 60 for members of classic, premium and Northern Ireland Civil Service pension schemes membership of alpha or joining a ‘money Unlike classic, there is no automatic lump sum classic plus and 65 for members of nuvos. The which are administered by Civil Service Pensions purchase’ stakeholder arrangement with a (but members may give up (commute) some of normal scheme pension age in alpha is linked to (CSP). significant employer contribution (partnership their pension to provide a lump sum). Classic the member’s State Pension Age but cannot be pension account). plus is essentially a variation of premium, but with before age 65. Further details about the NICS The alpha pension scheme was introduced benefits in respect of service before 1 October pension schemes can be found at the website for new entrants from 1 April 2015. The alpha New entrants joining on or after 30 July 2007 2002 calculated broadly as per classic. www.finance-ni.gov.uk/civilservicepensions-ni. scheme and all previous scheme arrangements were eligible for membership of the nuvos are unfunded with the cost of benefits met by arrangement or they could have opted for a The partnership pension account is a stakeholder Cash Equivalent Transfer Values monies voted each year. The majority of existing partnership pension account. Nuvos is also a pension arrangement. The employer makes a members of the classic, premium, classic plus CARE arrangement in which members accrue basic contribution of between 8% and 14.75% A Cash Equivalent Transfer Value (CETV) is the and nuvos pension arrangements also moved pension benefits at a percentage rate of annual (depending on the age of the member) into a actuarially assessed capitalised value of the to alpha from that date. Members who on 1 pensionable earnings throughout the period of stakeholder pension product chosen by the pension scheme benefits accrued by a member April 2012 were within 10 years of their normal scheme membership. The current accrual rate is employee. The employee does not have to at a particular point in time. The benefits valued pension age did not move to alpha and those 2.3%. contribute but where they do make contributions, are the member’s accrued benefits and any who were within 13.5 years and 10 years of their the employer will match these up to a limit of contingent spouse’s pension payable from Staff in post prior to 30 July 2007 may be in one normal pension age were given a choice between 3% of pensionable salary (in addition to the the scheme. A CETV is a payment made by of three statutory based ‘final salary’ defined moving to alpha on 1 April 2015 or at a later employer’s basic contribution). Employers also a pension scheme or arrangement to secure benefit arrangements (classic, premium, and date determined by their age. Alpha is a ‘Career contribute a further 0.5% of pensionable salary to pension benefits in another pension scheme classic plus). From April 2011, pensions payable Average Revalued Earnings’ (CARE) arrangement cover the cost of centrally-provided risk benefit or arrangement when the member leaves a under classic, premium, and classic plus are in which members accrue pension benefits at a cover (death in service and ill-health retirement). scheme and chooses to transfer the benefits percentage rate of annual pensionable earnings reviewed annually in line with changes in the accrued in their former scheme. The pension

66 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 67 figures shown relate to the benefits that the value of any benefits transferred from another individual has accrued as a consequence of their pension scheme or arrangement) and uses total membership of the pension scheme, not common market valuation factors for the start Staff Report just their service in a senior capacity to which and end of the period. However, the real increase disclosure applies. The CETV figures, and from calculation uses common actuarial factors at the 2003-04 the other pension details, include start and end of the period so that it disregards the value of any pension benefit in another the effect of any changes in factors and focuses scheme or arrangement which the individual has only on the increase that is funded by the transferred to the NICS pension arrangements. employer. Staff Costs (audited information) They also include any additional pension benefit accrued to the member as a result of their Compensation for loss of office purchasing additional years of pension service No amounts became payable in 2019-20 or Staff Costs comprise: in the scheme at their own cost. CETVs are 2018-19 in relation to loss of office. calculated in accordance with The Occupational Pension Schemes (Transfer Values) (Amendment) 2019-20 2018-19 Permanently Regulations 2015 and do not take account of any employed staff Others Total Total actual or potential benefits resulting from Lifetime £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Allowance Tax which may be due when pension Robert Kidd benefits are taken. Accounting Officer Wages and salaries 3,685 7 3,692 3,592 Real increase in CETV Date: 15 October 2020 Social security costs 372 - 372 357 This reflects the increase in CETV effectively funded by the employer. It does not include the Other pension costs 1,102 - 1,102 791 increase in accrued pension due to inflation, 5,159 7 5,166 4,740 contributions paid by the employee (including the

The Northern Ireland Civil Service main pension This change is primarily due to the reduction schemes are unfunded multi-employer defined in the SCAPE discount rate (as announced at benefit schemes but HSENI is unable to identify Budget 2018) to 2.4% per annum above CPI. The its share of the underlying assets and liabilities. contribution rates are set to meet the cost of The Government Actuary’s Department (GAD) is the benefits accruing during 2018-19 to be paid responsible for carrying out scheme valuations. when the member retires, and not the benefits The Actuary reviews employer contributions paid during this period to existing pensioners. every four years following the scheme valuation. The 2016 scheme valuation was completed Employees can opt to open a partnership by GAD in March 2019. The outcome of pension account, a stakeholder pension with an this valuation was used to set the level of employer contribution. No employees of HSENI contributions for employers from 1 April 2019 to have exercised this option. 31 March 2021. No exit packages were paid during the year For 2019-20, employers’ contributions of (2018-19 Nil). 2 persons (2018 -19: no persons) £1,101,591 were payable to the NICS pension retired early on ill-health grounds; the total arrangements (2018-19 £790,660) at one of additional accrued pension liabilities in the year three rates in the range 28.7% to 34.2% of was nil (2018-19: £nil). pensionable pay, based on salary bands.

68 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 69 Average number of persons employed HSENI continues to monitor and actively manage with Section 75 statutory equality obligations. (audited information) the sickness absence of its staff through the The Human Rights Act 1998 came fully into application of centrally agreed policies and force on 2 October 2000 and provides additional The average number of whole-time equivalent procedures and the HR Connect Shared Service. focus and emphasis on the rights and freedoms persons, including senior management, employed of individuals guaranteed under the European during the year was as follows: HSENI continues to: Convention on Human Rights. • create an inclusive, safe and healthy Permanent staff Others 2019-20 Total 2018-19 Total Health and Safety within HSENI working environment for all staff; HSENI is committed to ensuring the health, safety • actively pursue fairness and equality; Directly employed 100 - 100 99 and welfare of staff, and others who may be • encourage team working within an open affected by its undertakings. HSENI’s Corporate Other - - - - and participative management culture; and Plan for 2018-2023 sets out its commitment to create an inclusive, safe and healthy working Total 100 - 100 99 • maintain good industrial relations and liaise environment for all staff. To underscore this regularly with Trade Union representatives. commitment, health, safety and welfare at work is a standing item at all Senior Management Team Employment, Training and Advancement of and Board meetings. Staff Composition Staff Policies applied during the Financial Disabled Persons Year Employee Consultation and Trade Union A breakdown at 31 March 2020 showing the The Northern Ireland Civil Service applies Relationships number of persons of each sex who were Board HSENI adheres to all NICS policies in ensuring full the recruitment principles as set out in Members, senior managers and employees of and fair consideration is given to applications for the Recruitment Code of the Civil Service DoF is responsible for the NICS Industrial HSENI, is shown below. Figures for the previous employment by disabled persons, in continuing Commissioners for Northern Ireland, appointing Relations Policy. The centralised human resource year are shown in brackets. During 2019-20 the employment of, and arranging appropriate candidates based on merit through fair and function, NICS HR, consults on HR policy with all HSENI employed one Senior Civil Servant, the training for, employees who have become open competition. Recruitment and selection recognised Trade Unions and local departmental Chief Executive (equivalent to Grade 5 in the SCS). disabled persons during the period when they training, which includes raising awareness of arrangements are in place to enable consultation were employed, and for the training, career unconscious bias, is offered to all chairs of NICS on matters specific to a department or individual development and promotion of disabled persons recruitment panels. The NICS also has mandatory business area. employed. unconscious bias training for all staff. Male Female Employee Engagement and Learning and Human Resources To maintain and promote a diverse and Development Board Members 6 (6) 2 (2) inclusive workforce, the NICS has policies in HSENI continues to manage its business and place to support any alterations to the working The NICS recognises the importance of having Senior Managers 3 (3) 1 (1) improve performance through effective staff environment required by disabled persons. skilled and engaged employees and continues to deployment and performance management. invest in learning and development. Employees 52 (51) 53 (55) This has been achieved through efficient people The NICS has an active network of Diversity planning, active career management, and Champions and has appointed one of its’ The NICS Centre for Applied Learning (CAL) is facilitation of staff transfer for the benefit of both Deputy Secretaries as the NICS Diversity Lead responsible for development and delivery of all generic staff training. It offers a variety of learning Sickness Absence Data the business and the individual concerned. HSENI for Disability. The NICS has an active Disability maintains a skilled and motivated workforce Working Group and is a lead partner with delivery channels to enable flexible access to The overall HSENI managing attendance figure for created through a culture of development and Employers for Disability Northern Ireland. Through learning, blending different learning solutions into 2019-20 was a total of 990 (2018-19: 1,111) staff well managed personal development plans. this collaboration the NICS is working towards coherent learning pathways that are aligned to days lost. This equates to 10.0 (2018-19: 11.4) creating a truly inclusive workplace where all staff both corporate need and the NICS Competency working days lost per staff member during the HSENI’s current staff in post is 109. As HSENI has feel valued. The NICS promotes a number of Framework. year.11 79.7% of working days lost through sick Crown status, its employees are Civil Servants schemes for disabled staff, including a successful The NICS offers a wide range of career absence during 2019-20 were attributable to long and enjoy Northern Ireland Civil Service terms Work Experience Scheme for People with development opportunities through mentoring, term absence. 62.6% of staff had no sick absence and conditions of service. A significant number Disabilities. secondment and interchange opportunities, throughout the period. of our staff made use of the flexible working hours and work life balance policies available Human Rights elective transfers, temporary promotion, job throughout the NICS. At 31 March 2020, there rotation and job shadowing. HSENI is committed to respecting Human Rights were 25 staff working on part time, partial with particular emphasis on rights and freedoms Talent Management is a key theme of the NICS retirement or term time arrangements. of individuals. We believe that the services we People Strategy and work is underway to develop 11Figures from staf days lost and days’ sickness absence per staf member are sourced from NISRA who have advised that the fgures are provisional and should not be provide and the activities that we undertake have a more corporate approach to managing talent quoted as ofcial absence rates. Final fgures not available until September 2020. Please note that 2018-19 fgures have been amended to refect late entering of data. a positive impact on society. HSENI fully complies across the NICS.

70 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 71 HSENI Human Resource policies, strategies Certificate in Public Administration; and the e-learning, in advance of the formal sessions. During 2019-20, HSENI: and plans directly and tangibly support HSENI’s business by ensuring that it has a highly skilled, • Scientific Services completed a number of Despite the delays experienced by both sets • staff completed a number of equality relating knowledgeable and flexible workforce. HSENI is Asbestos courses in order to maintain their of trainees in relation to their NEBOSH Post training including the Just a Minute (JAM) committed to the continuous development of its UKAS accreditation Graduate Diploma, they have been able to gain e-learning course, which all staff undertook in staff to meet the needs of its business areas and extensive experience in the practical element of December 2019; HSENI also undertook a comprehensive range their training since their recruitment, participating to reflect the variety of skills and competencies of learning and development activities for • provided advice, guidance and support on required for them to operate effectively both now in a number of inspections and investigations staff in accordance with its 2019-20 Learning throughout the 2019-20 period, and towards how to control the risks associated with work- and in the future. HSENI managers, at all levels, in and Development Plan. Training comprised of related stress by promoting and delivering line with HR policies contained in the NICS Staff the end of the year played a key role in HSENI’s essential and desirable needs at organisational, COVID-19 related work, providing advice and awareness seminars to assist Northern Handbook ensure performance management, team and individual levels. HSENI’s investment Ireland employers to use HSE’s Management absence levels and employee relations are guidance to both employers and employees on a in learning and development has included our number of health and safety concerns. Standards as a tool to control the risks managed effectively. HSENI is committed to existing inspectors who avail of a range of associated with work-related stress; providing all staff with the development and specialist training courses in HSE (GB) to ensure Staff opinions and views are sought as part of training necessary for effective performance they receive the same professional development the planning processes, for example, as part of • as part of the second Farm Safety Partnership in their jobs and for the development of their opportunities as their HSE (GB) counterparts in a the annual operational plan, as well as at events Action Plan, continued with its multi-media potential in accordance with the business needs wide range of disciplines. Much of this specialist such as staff away days. SMT also encourages farm safety campaign; of HSENI and the agreed training priorities for the training is organised through HSE (GB) and the consultation and exchange of information within • continued its work on its child safety on farms NICS. HSENI utilises the DoF Centre for Applied Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL). HSENI. SMT meets with Heads of Group on campaign, reaching over 9,000 primary school Learning shared service which provides a wide a regular basis. In addition, a system of team children in 88 rural primary schools with its range of programmes for all generic learning and Many of our staff also attend generic training briefing provides the framework for managers presentations delivering key messages for development needs. courses provided by DoF, Centre for Applied to update staff on a monthly basis on Board and Learning. Courses attended during this reporting staying safe on the farm; During 2019-20 HSENI offered ‘line of business’ SMT decisions, organisational topics and issues. period include Emergency First Aid, managing • continued with the child safety on farms poster study opportunities where budget permitted. In sick absence, tender evaluation, performance Other channels to maximise staff involvement competition with entries from 3,382 pupils the last year: management and negotiating and influencing include appraisal, SHINE newsletter, SharePoint from 72 primary schools. A 2020 calendar was

• Two staff completed the Certificate of skills. Intranet, and working groups. HSENI recognises produced from the winning entries and this was the importance of good industrial relations and Professional Development in Radiation The five trainee inspectors recruited by HSENI in distributed to over 40,000 families of children Protection; is committed to effective employee relations and attending rural primary schools in Northern 2017 successfully completed their NEBOSH Post communications. Regular meetings are held with Ireland, providing key monthly messages on • One staff member completed a NEBOSH Graduate Diploma in Regulatory Occupational representatives of Trade Unions under the Whitley Health & Safety during 2019-20 and are now fully how to avoid the dangers of working or playing Health & Well-being Certificate; framework. qualified inspectors. on the farm;

• One staff member completed the Level Equality, Diversity and Inclusion The cohort of five trainee inspectors recruited • participated in six rural ‘Bee Safe’ events 5 Diploma in Well-being and Stress speaking to over 3,000 pupils on the three key Management; in March 2019 worked towards completion of The NICS People Strategy 2018-21 places the NEBOSH Post Graduate Diploma throughout diversity and inclusion at its centre and includes farm safety messages, namely tractors and

• One staff member started an MSc in 2019-20. Unfortunately the emergence of the a range of actions that will help accelerate the other machinery, safety with animals, and safe Occupational Hygiene; COVID-19 pandemic during the final weeks of the NICS’ ambition to be a service that reflects the play on the farm; year has led to the temporary suspension of this society we serve. • provided several publications aimed • One staff member started the NEBOSH training. HSENI management is currently working General Certificate in Occupational Health & The NICS continues to carry out its statutory specifically at providing information on HSENI’s with HSE (GB) to progress this training, and it is information services for migrant workers who Safety which was temporarily suspended due hoped to recommence later in 2019. obligations under fair employment legislation, to COVID-19 and will be completed during including the annual return to the Equality do not have English as their first language. 2020-21; and HSENI recruited a further three trainee Commission for NI. The NICS publishes a wide HSENI has provided these publications, in hard copy and on the web, in a number of ethnic inspectors on 1 October 2019. Again, the range of NICS human resource statistics. • One member of staff started the NEBOSH COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a delay to minority languages; and National Certificate in Construction Health and HSENI has outlined how it will fulfil these trainees starting their regulatory training. HSENI • continued to provide the pictorial Universal Safety which was temporarily suspended due management is currently working with HSE (GB) obligations in its Equality Scheme and it to COVID-19 and will be completed during submits Annual Progress reports to the Equality Safety Booklet, for high risk work sectors, to progress the commencement of this training. aimed at those who do not have English as 2020-21 Commission in relation to this. Unfortunately it is unlikely that formal training their first language or have difficulty in reading. Also throughout the year: will start until April 2021. However, HSE (GB) HSENI is currently working on revising its Equality is scheduling additional webinars and virtual Bribery and Corruption Scheme to align with the new Corporate Plan. • One staff member started a Post Graduate classrooms to support this cohort in completing It is important that HSENI maintains high ethical

72 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 73 standards. HSENI does not tolerate fraud, bribery, Enforcement Guidelines any form of corruption or any illegal or unethical activity. The organisation has an Anti-Fraud HSENI’s Enforcement Guidelines enshrine the Accountability and Policy and Fraud Response Plan, as well as a principles contained in the Regulators’ Code Raising Concerns (Whistleblowing) Policy. All produced by the Better Regulation Delivery Office three documents were revised during 2019-20 of the Department for Business Innovation and Audit Report to take account of advice provided by the newly Skills (now the Department for Business, Energy & established DfE Fraud & Raising Concerns Unit Industrial Strategy) in April 2014. and its role in dealing with fraud allegations and HSENI believes in firm but fair enforcement of Funding Report concerns raised. All revised documents were health and safety law. This should be informed approved by HSENI’s ARMC and disseminated to by the principles of proportionality in applying all staff. the law and securing compliance; targeting of Regularity of Expenditure Other Employee Matters enforcement action; consistency of approach; (audited information) transparency about how the regulator operates The 2018-21 NICS People Strategy sets out the and what those regulated may expect; and HSENI conducted its financial dealings shared view of the people priorities across the accountability for the regulator’s actions. These throughout the year in line with relevant NICS under the following themes: principles should apply both to enforcement legislation, delegated authorities and appropriate in particular cases and to the health and guidance issued by HM Treasury and DoF, • A well-led NICS safety enforcing authorities’ management of including Managing Public Money Northern • High performing NICS enforcement activities as a whole. Ireland. Expenditure in response to COVID-19 was in line with parliamentary authority (regular) and in • Outcomes-focused NICS Expenditure on Consultancy accordance with the principles of MPMNI.

• An inclusive NICS in which diversity is truly HSENI did not incur any expenditure on Fees and Charges (audited information) valued – a great place to work consultants during the 2019-20 financial year. HSENI had no material fees and charges income Efficiency and Value for Money Off-payroll Engagements in the current financial year.

In order to ensure that the public resources HSENI did not engage in any off-payroll Losses and Special Payments (audited allocated are used to best effect, HSENI is arrangements during the 2019-20 financial year. information) committed to: Exit Packages HSENI did not make any losses, gifts or special • regularly monitoring performance; No exit packages were paid during the 2019-20 payments requiring disclosure in the current financial year. • conducting Internal Audits of its operating financial year. systems; Remote Contingent Liabilities (audited information) • adopting a strategic approach to risk management; HSENI is not aware of any remote contingent Robert Kidd liabilities. • keeping its performance measurement Accounting Officer mechanisms under review;

• following DoF’s CPD guidelines for procurement and using its services wherever possible;

• keeping administrative costs to a minimum; and

• recovering costs where appropriate.

74 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 75 other information included in the annual report. The misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. other information comprises the information included Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance,

Auditor’s Report in the annual report other than the financial statements, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in the parts of the Accountability Report described in the accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material

report as having been audited, and my audit certificate misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise and report. My opinion on the financial statements from fraud or error and are considered material if, does not cover the other information and I do not individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. be expected to influence the economic decisions of

Health and Safety Executive For Northern Ireland users taken on the basis of these financial statements. In connection with my audit of the financial statements, The Certificate and Report of the Comptroller and my responsibility is to read the other information and, A further description of my responsibilities for the Auditor General to the Northern Ireland Assembly in doing so, consider whether the other information is audit of the financial statements is located on the materially inconsistent with the financial statements Financial Reporting Council’s website www.frc.org.uk/ or my knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the my certificate. work I have performed, I conclude that there is a Opinion on financial statements Basis of opinions material misstatement of this other information, I am In addition, I am required to obtain evidence sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the expenditure and I certify that I have audited the financial statements of I conducted my audit in accordance with International required to report that fact. I have nothing to report in income recorded in the financial statements have been the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs) and Practice Note this regard. applied to the purposes intended by the Assembly for the year ended 31 March 2020 under the Health 10 ‘Audit of Financial Statements of Public Sector Opinion on other matters and the financial transactions recorded in the financial and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978. Entities in the United Kingdom’. My responsibilities statements conform to the authorities which govern The financial statements comprise: the Statements of under those standards are further described in the In my opinion: them. Comprehensive Net Expenditure, Financial Position, Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial Cash Flows, Changes in Taxpayers’ Equity; and the statements section of this certificate. My staff and I • the parts of the Accountability Report to be audited Matters on which I report by exception related notes, including significant accounting policies. are independent of the Health and Safety Executive have been properly prepared in accordance with These financial statements have been prepared under for Northern Ireland in accordance with the ethical Department for the Economy directions made under I have nothing to report in respect of the following the accounting policies set out within them. I have also requirements of the Financial Reporting Council’s the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) matters which I report to you if, in my opinion: Order 1978; and audited the information in the Accountability Report Revised Ethical Standard 2016, and have fulfilled our • adequate accounting records have not been kept; or that is described in that report as having been audited. other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these • the information given in the Performance Report and requirements. I believe that the audit evidence obtained • the financial statements and the parts of the In my opinion the financial statements: Accountability Report for the financial year for which is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my the financial statements are prepared is consistent Accountability Report to be audited are not in • give a true and fair view of the state of the Health opinions. with the financial statements. agreement with the accounting records; or

and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland’s affairs Conclusions relating to going concern Responsibilities of the Health and Safety Executive • I have not received all of the information and as at 31 March 2020 and of the Health and Safety explanations I require for my audit; or Executive for Northern Ireland’s net expenditure for I have nothing to report in respect of the following for Northern Ireland and Accounting Officer for the

the year then ended; and matters in relation to which the ISAs(UK) require me to financial statements • the Governance Statement does not reflect report to you where: As explained more fully in the Statement of Accounting compliance with the Department of Finance’s • have been properly prepared in accordance with the guidance. Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order • the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Officer Responsibilities, the Health and Safety 1978 and Department for the Economy directions Ireland’s use of the going concern basis of Executive for Northern Ireland and the Accounting Report Officer are responsible for the preparation of the issued thereunder. accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is not appropriate; or financial statements and for being satisfied that they I have no observations to make on these financial Opinion on regularity give a true and fair view. statements. • the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland In my opinion, in all material respects the expenditure has not disclosed in the financial statements any Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the and income recorded in the financial statements identified material uncertainties that may cast financial statements have been applied to the purposes intended by the significant doubt about the Health and Safety Assembly and the financial transactions recorded in the My responsibility is to examine, certify and report on the K J Donnelly Executive for Northern Ireland’s ability to continue to financial statements in accordance with the Health and Comptroller and Auditor General financial statements conform to the authorities which adopt the going concern basis. govern them. Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978. Northern Ireland Audit Office 106 University Street Other Information My objectives are to obtain evidence about the Belfast The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland amounts and disclosures in the financial statements BT7 1EU sufficient to give reasonable assurance that and the Accounting Officer are responsible for the the financial statements are free from material 21 October 2020

76 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 77 Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland

Statement of Comprehensive Net Expenditure for the year ended 31st March 2020

2019-20 2018-19 Notes £’000 £’000

Income from activites 4 18 57

Total operating income 18 57

Staff costs 2 5,166 4,740

Depreciation 3 6 16

Amortisation 3 71 -

Other operating expenditure 3 1,560 1,237

Total operating expenditure 6,803 5,993

Net operating expenditure for the year 6,785 5,936

Other comprehensive net expenditure

Net gain on revaluation 6 (10) - of intangible assets

Comprehensive net 6,775 5,936 expenditure for the year

All amounts above relate to continuing operations.

Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland

Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2020 The notes on pages 83-92 form part of these accounts.

78 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 79 Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland

Statement of Financial Position Statement of Cash Flows as at 31st March 2020 for the year ended 31st March 2020

31st March 31st March 2019-20 2018-19 2020 2019 Notes £’000 £’000 Notes £’000 £’000 Cash flows from operating activities Non-current assets Net operating expenditure (6,785) (5,936) Property, plant and equipment 5 18 10 Adjustment for depreciation charge on 3 6 16 Intangible assets 6 662 630 non-current assets Total non-current assets 680 640 Adjustment for amortisation charge on intangibles 3 71 - Adjustment for notional costs 3 359 376 Current assets Increase in trade and other receivables 8 (28) (11) Trade and other receivables 8 337 309 (Decrease)/Increase in trade and other payables 10 (271) 54 Less movements in payables relating to items not (19) (364) Cash and cash equivalents 9 440 701 passing through the Net Expenditure account Total current assets 777 1,010 Net cash outflow from operating activities (6,667) (5,865)

Total assets 1,457 1,650 Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of property, plant and equipment 5 (14) - Current liabilities Purchase of intangible assets 6 (73) (167) Trade and other payables 10 643 913 Net cash outflow from investing activities (87) (167) Total current liabilities 643 913 Cash flows from financing activities Total assets less total liabilities 814 737 Grants from sponsoring department Capital Grant-in-Aid Financing 109 531 Taxpayers’ equity Funding of Staff and Operating Expenditure* 5,733 5,181 General reserve 804 737 Funding of Programme Expenditure 651 381 Revaluation reserve 10 - Net financing 6,493 6,093 814 737

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash 9 (261) 61 The financial statements on pages 126 ot 138 equivalents in the period were approved by the Board on 15 October 2020 and were signed on its behalf by; Cash and cash equivalents at 9 701 640 the beginning of the period

Cash and cash equivalents at (signed) ...... (signed) ...... 9 440 701 the end of the period (D Martin, Chairman) (Robert Kidd, Chief Executive) 15 October 2020 15 October 2020 * Staff and Operating Expenditure is paid by DfE on HSENI’s behalf

The notes on pages 83-92 form part of these accounts. The notes on pages 83-92 form part of these accounts.

80 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 81 Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland Notes to the Statement of Changes in Taxpayers’ Equity for the year ended 31st March 2020 Executive’s Accounts General Revaluation Taxpayers’ Notes Reserve Reserve Equity £’000 £’000 £’000 1. Statement of Accounting Policies

Balance at 31st March 2018 204 - 204 These financial statements have been prepared 1.3. Depreciation Changes in taxpayers’ equity for 2018-19 in accordance with the 2019-20 Government Financial Reporting Manual (FReM) issued by the Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to Capital Grant-in-Aid Financing - DfE 531 - 531 Department of Finance (DoF). The accounting write off the cost or valuation less estimated Funding of Staff and Operating Expenditure – policies contained in the FReM apply International residual value of each asset over its expected 5,181 5,181 Request for Resource B – DfE Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adapted useful life, as follows: Funding of Programme Expenditure – or interpreted for the public sector context. Transport equipment - 25% straight line 381 - 381 Request for Resource B – DfE Where the FReM permits a choice of accounting Grants from Sponsoring department for 2018-19 6,093 - 6,093 policy, the accounting policy which is judged to be Furniture & fittings - 25% straight line. most appropriate to the particular circumstances 1.4. Intangible Assets Non-cash charges 376 - 376 of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) for the purpose of giving a true Comprehensive net expenditure for the year (5,927) - (5,927) Computer Software and fair view has been selected. The particular Auditor’s remuneration (9) - (9) policies adopted by HSENI are described below. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Total recognised Income and expense for 2018-19 - (5,560) (5,560) They have been applied consistently in dealing Investment acquired a Case Management with items that are considered material to the System (CMS) in 2005-06 for use by HSENI. This Balance at 31st March 2019 737 - 737 accounts. CMS system was retrospectively capitalised in the 08-09 year under IAS 38 Intangible Assets. Changes in taxpayers’ equity for 2019-20 Management has reviewed new accounting The useful economic life of the asset was standards that have been issued but are not yet estimated at 6 years to March 2012. This system Capital Grant-in-Aid Financing – DfE 109 - 109 effective, nor adopted early, for these accounts. was decommissioned by the organisation in the Funding of Staff and Operating Expenditure – Management consider that these are unlikely to 5,733 5,733 current financial year. Request for Resource B – DfE - have any significant impact on the accounts in Funding of Programme Expenditure – the period of initial application. IFRS 16 is not A replacement CMS system was brought into 651 651 Request for Resource B – DfE - considered relevant to the financial reporting of operation at the beginning of the current financial Grants from Sponsoring department for 2019-20 6,493 - 6,493 HSENI. year. The useful economic life of this new system has been estimated at 10 years from April 2019. 1.1. Accounting Convention Non-cash charges 359 - 359 HSENI acquired the accounting software, Comprehensive net expenditure for the year (6,761) - (6,761) These accounts have been prepared under the Microsoft Dynamics NAV in 2009-10. The useful Auditor’s remuneration (14) - (14) historical cost convention modified to account for economic life of the asset was estimated at 4 Net gain on revaluation of intangible assets (10) 10 - the revaluation of intangible assets. years to March 2014. The system is still in use Total recognised Income and expense for 2019-20 (6,426) 10 (6,416) within HSENI. An upgrade is currently being 1.2. Property, Plant and Equipment worked on and will be brought into use in the Balance at 31st March 2020 804 10 814 The assets of the Health and Safety Executive 2020-21 financial year. for Northern Ireland are carried at fair value. These assets are recorded at fair value, as Depreciated historical cost is used as a proxy The General Reserve serves as the chief operating fund. The General Reserve is used to account for all calculated using the Depreciated Replacement for fair value for all of the organisation’s tangible financial resources except those required to be accounted for in another fund. Cost method (DRC). Amortisation is calculated assets given their low values and short useful on a straight-line basis. Intangible assets are lives. The minimum level of capitalisation of The Revaluation Reserve records the unrealised gain or loss on the revaluation of intangible assets. reviewed annually for impairment and are carried property, plant and equipment is £1,000. at fair value.

The notes on pages 83-92 form part of these accounts.

82 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 83 1.5. Operating Income are approved by HSENI budget holders but the 2. Staff numbers and related costs payment is made from DfE’s bank account. Operating income represents fees charged HSENI is accountable for the level and propriety 2 (a) Staff costs comprise: to businesses for licences and attendance at of spend but does not physically receive the cash Permanently 2019-20 2018-19 conferences and is recognised in the period in funding. Due to the nature of this arrangement, employed which performance is satisfied. the Grant-in-Aid associated with this budget staff Others Total Total Fees and Charges matches the level of expenditure. £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 HSENI obtains income from the following services Budget for Programme Expenditure, being in parity with Great Britain (GB): HSENI spend on health & safety programmes, Wages and salaries 3,685 7 3,692 3,592 campaigns and events, is obtained from DfE as a COMAH income is obtained on a full cost cash drawdown and is administered from within Social security costs 372 - 372 357 recovery basis. HSENI on the organisation’s own finance system. Other Pension costs 1,102 - 1,102 791 All these relate to services costing less than 1.8. Value Added Tax £1,000,000. Total 5,159 7 5,166 4,740 HSENI does not charge output VAT on This information is provided for Fees and Charges income and is ineligible to reclaim input VAT purposes, not for IFRS 8 purposes. on programme expenditure. Therefore all 2 (b) Pension arrangements: Budget 2018) to 2.4% per annum above CPI. The programme expenditure is inclusive of VAT. 1.6. Financial Instruments contribution rates are set to meet the cost of The Northern Ireland Civil Service main pension Staff and Operating expenditure is exclusive the benefits accruing during 2018-19 to be paid schemes are unfunded multi-employer defined Cash and cash equivalents of VAT as it is administered by DfE on HSENI’s when the member retires, and not the benefits benefit schemes but HSENI is unable to identify behalf. paid during this period to existing pensioners. Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at its share of the underlying assets and liabilities. bank and in hand. 1.9. Pensions The Government Actuary’s Department (GAD) is Employees can opt to open a partnership Trade and other receivables responsible for carrying out scheme valuations. pension account, a stakeholder pension with an Past and present employees are covered by the The Actuary reviews employer contributions employer contribution. No employees of HSENI Trade receivables do not carry any interest and provisions of the NICS pension arrangements. every four years following the scheme valuation. have exercised this option. are recognised and carried at the lower of their The rate for the employer’s contribution is set by The 2016 scheme valuation was completed original invoiced value and recoverable amount. the Government Actuary and for 2019-20 was by GAD in March 2019. The outcome of No exit packages were paid during the year A bad debt provision is made when there is dependent on salary range. All contributions are this valuation was used to set the level of (2018-19 Nil). charged to the Statement of Comprehensive Net objective evidence that the recoverable amount contributions for employers from 1 April 2019 to 2 persons (2018-19: no persons) retired early on Expenditure as incurred. is less than the original invoiced value. Balances 31 March 2021. ill-health grounds; the total additional accrued are written off when the probability of recovery is 1.10. Operating Segments For 2019-20, employers’ contributions of pension liabilities in the year was nil (2018-19: assessed as being remote. £nil). The Chief Operating Decision Maker considers £1,101,591 were payable to the NICS pension Trade and other payables HSENI as one operating unit in making decisions. arrangements (2018-19 £790,660) at one of 2 (c) Average number of persons employed: Management information is generated on a three rates in the range 28.7% to 34.2% of Trade payables are not interest bearing and are The average number of whole-time equivalent holistic basis for the organisation. pensionable pay, based on salary bands. stated at their nominal value. persons, including senior management, employed

1.11. Staff Costs This change is primarily due to the reduction during the year was as follows: 1.7. Grant-in-Aid in the SCAPE discount rate (as announced at Grant-in-Aid financing is credited to the general Under IAS19 Employee Benefits, all staff costs reserve in the year that it is received. must be recorded as an expense as soon as the organisation is obligated to pay them. This HSENI is funded in two distinct ways, both includes the cost of any untaken leave as at the Permanent 2019-20 2018-19 of which are considered to be Programme year end. The cost of untaken leave has been staff Others Total Total expenditure within the NI Block grant and are determined with reference to cost and leave Directly employed 100 - 100 99 treated as Grant-in-Aid as defined above. balance information held by HRConnect at the year end. Budget for Staff and Operating Expenditure within Other - - - - HSENI is retained by DfE on behalf of HSENI Total 100 - 100 99 and used to administer this type of expenditure through HSENI’s existence as a separate cost centre within DfE’s finance system. Payments

84 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 85 3. Other Expenditure 4. Income 2019-20 2018-19 2019-20 2018-19 Restated £’000 £’000 Notes £’000 £’000 Licence, subscription and conference fees 10 52 Advertising and publicity 343 349 Other income 8 5 Motor and travel expenses 160 159 18 57 Staff training 151 130

Inspection and enforcement 96 (65) Other income relates to fees and charges, recovery of legal costs and income from events and IT costs 96 39 workshops.

Other Staff Related Costs 89 84 5. Property, plant and equipment Telephone 60 50 2019-20 Transport Furniture & Total

Scientific services* 35 28 equipment fittings Printing, postage and stationery 29 34 £’000 £’000 £’000

Contract cleaning 26 26 Cost or valuation Premises costs 24 16 At 1 April 2019 24 317 341

Staff equipment 17 20 Additions - 14 14 Heat and light 17 14 Disposals - (47) (47) Internal audit and accountancy 14 14 At 31 March 2020 24 284 308 Auditor’s remuneration 14 9 Legal and professional fees 12 (70) Depreciation

Staff development 9 3 At 1 April 2019 24 307 331 Recruitment costs 3 18 Charged in year - 6 6 Catering and hospitality 2 1 Disposals - (47) (47) Car parking 2 - At 31 March 2020 24 266 290

Office maintenance* 2 2 Carrying value at 31 March 2020 - 18 18 Non-cash items

Depreciation 5 6 16 Carrying value at 31 March 2019 - 10 10 Amortisation 6 71 -

Notional accommodation charge 331 329 Asset financing:

Notional Departmental Solicitors Office charge 24 47 Owned - 18 18 Notional welfare charge 4 - Carrying value at 31 March 2020 - 18 18 1,637 1,253

Given that the assets of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland have short useful lives and *An adjustment of £8k has been made in the previous year comparative to move the cost of maintenance are of low values, depreciated historical cost has been used as a proxy for fair value. HSENI owns all its of lab equipment from Office maintenance to Scientific services assets.

86 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 87 2018-19 Transport Furniture & Total 6. Intangible assets equipment fittings Intangible assets comprise a Case Management System (CMS) to store relevant data on Health & Safety £’000 £’000 £’000 investigations and the accounting software, Microsoft Dynamics NAV, which is used to administer HSENI’s Cost or valuation programme expenditure. The additions in the current year relate to the completion of the development of a new Case Management System and also initial payments towards the implementation of an upgrade to At 1 April 2018 24 338 362 the accounting system. The old CMS system was decommissioned in the current financial year. Additions - (21) (21) Information Technology At 31 March 2019 24 317 341 2019-20 Total Depreciation £’000 At 1 April 2018 18 318 336 Valuation Charged in year 6 10 16 At 1 April 2019 840 Disposals - (21) (21) Additions 93 At 31 March 2019 24 307 331 Disposals (197) Revaluations 11 Carrying value at 31 March 2019 - 10 10 At 31 March 2020 747

Carrying value at 31 March 2018 6 20 26 Amortisation

Asset financing: At 1 April 2019 210 Owned - 10 10 Charged in year 71 Carrying value at 31 March 2019 - 10 10 Disposals (197) Revaluations 1 At 31 March 2020 85

Carrying value at 31 March 2020 662 Carrying value at 31 March 2019 630

Asset financing: Owned 662 Carrying value at 31st March 2020 662

HSENI values its intangible assets at 31st March using the Depreciated Replacement Cost method. It is estimated by restating the value annually by reference to indices compiled by the Office of National Statistics.

88 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 89 8. Trade receivables and other current assets 2018-19 Total £’000 2019-20 2018-19

Valuation £’000 £’000

At 1 April 2018 309 Amounts falling due within one year: Additions 531 Trade receivables 3 1 At 31 March 2019 840 Other receivables* 311 283

Amortisation Prepayments 23 25

At 1 April 2018 210 Total 337 309 Charged in year - *Other receivables relates to an Intergovernmental debtor with DfE in relation to the Department’s At 31 March 2019 210 agreement to honour HSENI Staff & Operating Expenditure accruals and prepayments.

Carrying value at 31 March 2019 630 9. Cash and cash equivalents Carrying value at 31 March 2018 99 2019-20 2018-19 Asset financing: £’000 £’000 Owned 630 Balance at 1 April 701 640 Carrying value at 31st March 2019 630 Net change in cash and cash equivalent balances (261) 61

Balance at 31 March 440 701

The following balances at 31 March were held at: 7. Financial Instruments

As the cash requirements of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) are met through Commercial banks and cash in hand 440 701 Grant-in-Aid provided by the Department for the Economy, financial instruments play a more limited role Balance at 31 March 440 701 in creating and managing risk than would apply to a non-public sector body. The majority of financial instruments relate to contracts to buy non-financial items in line with HSENI’s expected purchase and usage requirements and HSENI is therefore exposed to little credit, liquidity or market risk. 10. Trade payables and other current liabilities

2019-20 2018-19

£’000 £’000

Amounts falling due within one year:

Trade payables 2 1

Accruals 641 912

Total 643 913

90 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 91 11. Provisions for liabilities and charges Independent Autonomous Bodies:

HSENI is not aware of any circumstances that • Ulster University (Higher Education Institution); would give rise to provisions or contingent Appendix 1 liabilities in the current year. • Queens University (Higher Education Institution); 12. Commitments under leases • Open University;and 12.1. Operating leases • St Mary’s University College (Non Profit HSENI Organisation Structure 2019-20 HSENI does not hold any operating leases. Institution Serving Households Body).

12.2. Finance leases In addition, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland has had a small number of HSENI does not hold any finance leases. transactions with other government departments Chief Executive 13. Related Party Transactions and other central government bodies. Most of these transactions have been with the The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Department of Finance. Ireland is a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) No board member, key manager or other related Operations and sponsored by the Department for the Economy. Specialist Sectors Services parties has undertaken any material transactions Investigations The Department for the Economy is regarded as Division Division Division a related party. During the year, the Health and with the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Safety Executive for Northern Ireland has had Ireland during the year. various material transactions with the Department 14. Events after the reporting period and with other entities for which the Department Corporate Support, is regarded as the parent Department, viz: Date of authorisation for issue Public Sector Finance, Training Agriculture & Food & Premises Non-Departmental Public Bodies: The Accounting Officer authorised the issue of these financial statements on 21 October 2020. • Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI); Mental Well-being at Work Legislation & I.T. • Tourism Northern Ireland (Tourism NI); Advisory Service Information Management • Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (GCCNI);

• Northern Ireland Screen; Major Hazards, Gas Communications and Extractive Industries & Transport Operations Support • CITB–NI;

• Labour Relations Agency;

• Stranmillis University College; Manufacturing, Utilities Major Investigations Team Construction & Docks • the six Further Education colleges;

• InterTradeIreland (Trade and Business Development Body); and Scientific Services & Occupational Explosives • Tourism Ireland Company Limited by Health Support Guarantee (TICLG).

92 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 93 Transport

Appendix 2 Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date

Delivery driver (48) Self Employed Died when hydraulic system of 06.07.2019 vehicle failed

Fatal Injuries 2019-20 (Total = 11; HSENI enforcement responsibility only) Public Sector

Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date

These figures do not include fatalities where the investigation has not yet established details to make a Patient (83) N/A Died following serious burns 06.07.2019 decision on their inclusion. sustained in plant room

Construction

Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date Waste Roofer (58) Unknown Fall from height 09.01.2020 Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date Construction Employed Fall from height 17.01.2020 worker (42) Engineer (24) Employed Died following machinery accident 19.11.2019

Plumber (59) Employed Fall from height 27.01.2020

Builder (72) Contractor Fall from height 20.02.2020 Utilities

Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date

Manufacturing *Private Employed Died after being hit by a falling tree 19.09.2018 contractor (24) Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date

Harbour worker Employed The exact details of the incident have 18.07.2019 * This fatality relates to the 2018-19 period (59) not yet been established. Labourer (43) Employed Died following collapse of three ton 04.09.2019 trailer.

Died following fall associated with Delivery driver (70) Employed 13.12.2019 fallen pallet from tailgate of lorry

Agriculture

Occupation (Age) Employment Category Description Date

Child (14) N/A Died as result of accident with 30.11.2019 telehandler

94 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 95 Richard McClure T/A McClure Farms and S Higgins Construction Ltd

Appendix 3 On 12 December 2019 Richard McClure, a farmer trading as McClure Farms from Coleraine was fined £10,000 after pleading guilty to one breach of health and safety legislation, while S Higgins Construction Ltd, based at Knockloughrim, Magherafelt was fined £10,000 after pleading Prosecutions 2019-20 guilty to two breaches of health and safety legislation.

Briggs Equipment UK Ltd

F.P. McCann Ltd Terex GB Ltd On 20 December 2019 this firm was fined £150,000 after an employee suffered serious On 31 May 2019 F.P. McCann Limited pleaded On 27 June 2019 a Co. Tyrone company was injuries when a heavy piece of equipment guilty to two breaches of health and safety fined £150,000 orf failings which resulted in the weighing approximately one tonne landed on him legislation and was fined £150,000 at Laganside death of one of its employees at their premises when it was being unloaded. Crown Court, after an employee was found on Killyclogher Road, Omagh. fatally injured beside a dumper truck at its Ace Recycling (NI) Limited and its sole Knockloughrim Quarry premises. An examination Terex GB Ltd pleaded guilty after an employee director, James McCoubrey of the Aveling Barford truck highlighted a number sustained fatal injuries as a result of being of faults including low brake efficiencies, no crushed between two mobile stone crushing On 13 February 2020 Ace Recycling (NI) Limited parking brake, no emergency steering and machines which were stored along with others in and its sole director were fined a total of £28,000 no working seatbelt. Edge protection in the a stockyard area. for health and safety breaches, including failing to ensure a suitable and sufficient assessment was stockpile area was also found to be below the Briquetter Enva Toomebridge Ltd (formerly recommended height of 1.5m, although it was completed to identify the presence of asbestos known as Clearcircle Environmental (NI) Ltd) at a former factory site at Shaerf Drive, Lurgan. sufficient to stop the truck on this occasion. and sub-contractor Declan Quinn James McCoubrey, director of Ace Recycling Amalgamated Environmental Services (AES) On 28 August 2019 a Co. Antrim firm was fined Ltd trading as AES Marconi (NI) Limited, was also fined for failing to comply £1,500 and a sub-contractor was fined £500 with a prohibition notice. The prohibition notice On 18 June 2019 AES Ltd was fined £15,000 after an electrical contractor had his foot trapped was served by a HSENI inspector to prevent any following the death of a man at an excavation site in a hydraulic powered compactor known as a further work involving asbestos from continuing in Rathfriland. The company pleaded guilty to one Briquetter. at the site. breach of health and safety legislation at Newry ISL Waste Management Ltd Crown Court, after the deceased was found Clogher Valley Livestock Producers dead within an excavation site at the rear of his On 28 August 2019 a Co. Antrim recycling On 13 March 2020 this firm was fined £12,500 house. The site was being remediated following company was fined £25,000 after an employee following the death of a man at a livestock mart in contamination with oil. was crushed between a Refuse Collection Vehicle Clogher. (RCV) and a mini digger. An investigation by HSENI found that the work Clogher Valley Livestock Producers pleaded was not appropriately planned. An incomplete McAuley Precision Limited guilty to one breach of health and safety generic risk assessment had been conducted On 24 September 2019 a Co. Antrim firm was legislation at Dungannon Court, following an without visiting the site, security arrangements fined £30,000 after two people, one of whom was incident where a farmer died after being struck by were not suitable to prevent access to the area, an employee, suffered serious injuries when an a gate at the livestock mart in June 2018. arrangements to assist tenants with necessary overloaded racking system fell on them. access to the area were not clear, and the risks associated with the work were not effectively Brian McGuckian T/A McGuckian Milling communicated. Company

On 7 October 2019 this Co. Antrim man was fined £20,000 after an employee had his left arm amputated by a screw auger conveyor.

96 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 97 CONSTRUCTION SECTOR (INCLUDING ASBESTOS)

Appendix 4: Performance Analysis ASBESTOS REMOVAL Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Run a seminar focusing on clients duties Seminar run and attended Target Achieved covering the commission of adequate by 50 companies / Seminar took place on 16 This section details HSENI’s performance against operating plan management and refurbishment/ representatives. (Contributes October 2019 at Ladas targets during 2019-20. demolition surveys. to CP Output 4) Drive. Carry out at least 60 site inspections 60 inspections of licensed Target Achieved of notified licensable asbestos removal asbestos work – measured 61 inspections achieved projects. using a free text code on across the group. COMMON PRIORITIES CMS. (Contributes to CP Output 1) INSPECTIONS Respond to 100% incidents of reported 100% of unsafe asbestos Target Achieved unsafe asbestos removal using a risk incidents in the construction Responded to all reported At least 5,000 inspections will be conducted across all Target Achieved based approach and within the confines sector will be stopped until incidents of unsafe asbestos work sectors aimed at improving levels of compliance 5,399 visits conducted 1.4.19 – 1.3.20. of available resource. compliance has been secured removal. with health and safety standards. using the most appropriate RIDDOR incidents will be selected for investigation Target Achieved action. (measured using using HSENI’s Incident Selection Procedure. 351 RIDDOR incidents selected for a free text code on CMS). investigation using HSENI’s Incident Selection (Contributes to CP Output 1) Procedure. All employers found to have an unsatisfactory level of Target Achieved RESPIRABLE CRYSTALLINE SILICA (RCS) compliance will be considered for enforcement action 59 Improvement Notices and 188 Prohibition in accordance with HSENI’s Enforcement Guidelines. Notices were issued during the period. Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Raise workplace health as a priority issue during all Target Achieved inspections in sectors where known health risks exist. Workplace health was raised at all inspections Distribute the existing RCS information Raise awareness of silica Target Achieved in sectors where known health risks exist. pack to 200 construction sites. within the construction Approximately 225 packs industry. (Contributes to CP distributed across the Outputs 2 and 4) industry in this operational PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES year. Run or participate in up to 6 high priority local events Target Achieved Make RCS a standing item on all 100% of instances where Target Achieved per annum to highlight health and safety in high risk HSENI participated in various events inspections where relevant. potential silica exposure Raised during all site visits sectors. throughout the year such as: exists will be subject to when appropriate and Open farm weekend, Build Health Workshop, appropriate enforcement during specific complaint Balmoral Show May 2019, Build Health Annual and/or educational activity. investigations. Conference, Asbestos Surveys Seminar, Dust (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 Workshop, WHLGNI Conference, and Explosives and 4) Seminar along with MWAWAS Workshops, Health and Safety Reps award, School Bee Safe visits. HAND ARM VIBRATION (HAV) Provide 160 advisory contacts / promotional events Target Achieved Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress etc. per annum (800 over lifetime of Corporate Plan) MUD – 10 Inspector Advisory contacts & 51 partners to increase awareness of workplace safety, health and Business Advisory contacts to 31.3.2020. Raise awareness of HAVS by discussing Measured using a free text Target Achieved mental well-being at work. 41 presentations delivered to school groups with site management and leaving code on CMS. (Contributes to Raised during all site visits during the period 1.4.19 – 31.3.20 (this figure an information pack on site where CP Output 1) when appropriate and does not include the number of school appropriate. during specific complaint presentations as part of the Child Safety on investigations. Farms campaign). AG – 18 Mental Health Events. 82 Primary Schools – Farm Safety Presentations. 4 Farm Safety Presentations to CAFRE Students. 12 Presentations to GCSE Agriculture Students.

98 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 99 WORK AT HEIGHT AGRI-FOOD GROUP Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners MENTAL WELL-BEING – WORK-RELATED STRESS Respond to incidents of unsafe WAH 100% of unsafe work at Target Achieved Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress using a risk based approach and within height incidents in the Responded to all incidents Distribute mental health advisory guide Raise awareness of mental Target Achieved the confines of available resource. construction sector will be of unsafe WAH. to all farmers during inspections. health in the agriculture Since 01.04.19 there have stopped until compliance has industry. (Contributes to CP been 18 events which been secured using the most Outputs 2 and 5) have taken place across NI appropriate action. (measured where members of the AG using a free text code on team gave presentations to CMS) (Contributes to CP farmers groups, influencers Output 1). in the farming community e.g. DAERA staff and VEHICLE PEDESTRIAN SEGREGATION (VPS) attended events such as Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress open farm weekend where partners “coping with the pressures of farming booklet” was Make VPS a standing item on all 100% of instances where Target Achieved distributed. inspections where relevant. potential vehicle contact An inspection initiative exists will be subject to was completed by the Make mental health a standing item on all Raise awareness of mental Target Achieved appropriate enforcement compliance officers to inspections (where relevant). health in the agriculture The AG team undertook and/or educational activity. highlight this across the industry. (Contributes to CP 468 site visits between (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 house building industry. Outputs 2 and 5) 1.4.19 & 31.3.20. The vast and 4) majority of these visits were in the agriculture sector. Where inspectors deemed it necessary mental SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS (STF) health was raised during Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress general inspections and partners investigations. Farmers Raise STFs during site visits where Focus on site tidiness during Target Achieved were given guidance and appropriate, particularly in regard to site inspections and secure Raised during all site visits the booklet “coping with the tidiness. compliance using the most when appropriate and pressures of farming” was appropriate action. (measured during specific complaint distributed. using a free text code on investigations. Raise awareness of potential mental HSENI and Rural Support Target Not Achieved CMS). (Contributes to CP health issues within the farming have co-developed a book HSENI Stress Team along Output 1) community. and web resource tackling with Communications the pressures of farming and Team and members of AG mental health which was are in process of working CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS (CDM) completed in March 2019 with Genesis in developing Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress and will be launched at the web based resource for Follow up design issues identified during Measured using a free text Target Achieved Balmoral Show in May 2019. Stress in Agriculture. This site visits with Principal Designers. code on CMS. (Contributes to Raised during all site visits (Contributes to CP Outputs 2, is an ongoing venture CP Output 1) when appropriate and 4 and 5) and the actual content during specific complaint of the website is still in investigations. development stages. The Discuss duties under CDM with Measured using a free text Target Achieved target should be completed clients, principal contractors and sub- code on CMS. (Contributes to Raised during all site visits during 2020/21. contractors during site visits and as CP Output 1) when appropriate and follow-ups as appropriate. during specific complaint investigations.

100 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 101 GUARDING OF DANGEROUS MOVING PARTS VEHICLE MAINTENANCE (VM) Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress Respond to complaints about unguarded Improve the standard of Target Achieved Develop a guide for farmers about safe Raise the standards of Target Achieved machinery using a risk based approach machinery guarding on 13 prohibition notices workshop facilities. workshop facilities on farms. This leaflet is complete and within the constraints of available farms and reduce number issued from 1/4/19 to (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 is available online hard copy resources. of incidents related to 31/3/20 dealing specifically & 5) leaflets will also be available unguarded machinery. with machinery guarding when required. 100% of reported situations issues in agriculture. of unguarded machinery will be closed out to secure VEHICLE PEDESTRIAN SEGREGATION (VPS) compliance. (Contributes to CP Output 4) Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Provide advice to farmers in relation to Improve the standard of Target Achieved machinery guarding. machinery guarding on Inspectors referred to safe Provide advice to farmers on vehicle- Measured using a free text Target Achieved farms and reduce number machinery guarding during pedestrian safety. code on CMS. (Contributes to Staff discuss vehicles and of incidents related to every farm inspection. CP Output 1) pedestrian safety during all unguarded machinery. Inspectors will discuss general farm inspections. (Contributes to CP Output 1) cleaning and maintenance also. CHILD SAFETY ON FARMS (CSOF) Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress Deliver farm safety presentations to a total Improved awareness of the Target Achieved SAFE ANIMAL HANDLING (SAH) of 240 primary schools by the end of the dangers of farms amongst HSENI staff delivered talks Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress period 1 April 2019 and 31 March 2020. primary school aged children. to primary school children at (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 82 schools across Northern Develop guidance for the farming A single guide of practical Target Achieved & 4) Ireland to both KS1 & KS2 industry in relation to safe calving advice for the agriculture Calving leaflet has been children. facilities. industry on safe calving completed and is available facilities (Contributes to CP online. The hard copy leaflet Organise and run a farm safety poster Improved awareness of the Target Achieved Output 1) will also be available when colouring competition. dangers of farms amongst Complete – details of required. primary school aged children. winners etc. on HSENI (Contributes to CP Output 4) website. 3382 entries received in year 2019. Design, print and distribute a 2020 Child Improved awareness of the Target Achieved WORK AT HEIGHT (WAH) Safety On Farms Calendar to pupils dangers of farms amongst 2020 Calendar launched 5th Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress attending rural primary schools. primary school aged children December 2020 and over Address work at height issues during all Where repair, alteration or Target Achieved and their families. (Contributes 40,000 calendars distributed pro-active inspections. new build work found during HSENI inspectors discuss to CP Output 4) to farming families across inspections: work at height during Northern Ireland. i) Unsafe WAH practices every farm inspection. Any Deliver farm safety presentations to Improved awareness of the Target Achieved will be stopped; and unsafe practise has been students attending CAFRE colleges. dangers of farms amongst 4 presentations given to ii) Advice given on essential stopped where necessary young adults who currently CAFRE students throughout measures to carry out and advice is given daily on work or are likely to work in the year and Business WAH safely. safe methods of working at the agricultural industry in NI. Advisors attended students (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 height. (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 fair at the start of the school and 4) & 4) year. Respond to complaints of unsafe work at Where unsafe WAH practices Target Achieved Deliver farm safety presentations to GCSE Improved awareness of the Target Achieved height using a risk based approach within are reported they will be Most unsafe work at height pupils (upon request – where resources dangers of farms amongst 12 presentations have been the confines of available resources. stopped until compliance will be referred to the permit). young adults who currently given to GCSE Agriculture with necessary standards construction team but any work or are likely to work in students in the period. achieved. work that is ongoing during the agricultural industry in NI. (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 inspection that is deemed (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 and 4) unsafe will be stopped & 4) immediately.

102 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 103 OTHER MANUFACTURING Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress Organise and deliver a major health and Promote a range of good Target Achieved MACHINERY GUARDING safety event at the 2019 Balmoral Show. health and safety practice HSENI participated in the Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress and advice at the show. Balmoral Show 15 – 18 May Machinery guarding. Respond to reports of unsafe Target Achieved (Contributes to CP Output 1) 2019. guarding of moving parts MUD have responded to all using a risk based approach reports of unsafe guarding Organise a safe machinery handling Use the Balmoral Show as Target Achieved and within the confines of to date. event for the Young Farmers Clubs of a vehicle to reach a large HSENI organised a safe available resource and take Ulster, YFCU at the Balmoral Show 2019. audience with key messages machinery handling event appropriate enforcement on safe machinery (animal) for YFCU at the Balmoral action where necessary. handling. (Contributes to CP Show 15 – 18 May 2019. (Contributes to CP Output 1) Output 1) Any guarding defects Target Achieved identified will be the subject Machinery guarding is of enforcement action. checked at every site visit. (Contributes to CP Output 1) Improve compliance with the Target Achieved legislation and contribute to Machinery guarding is a reduction in the number checked at every site visit. of incidents/injuries from inadequately guarded machinery and equipment. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

NEW TECHNOLOGIES (NEWTECH) Action / Intervention Target Output/s Progress Plant safety. Initiative within the plant Target Achieved manufacturing industry The Product Safety Team focussing on the design organised and spoke at and standard of guarding on an Extractive Industries new plant. This initiative will workshop in January 2020 be run in conjunction with with the leading extractive the Extractives Industry and industries within Northern Waste Group and the Product Ireland. The outfall of this Safety Group. (Contributes to workshop continues, CP Output 1) as HSENI raises the awareness and necessity of compliance with European Directives and BS EN standards, primarily concerning guarding. The Product Safety Team was not part of the New Tech Delivery Teams. See above.

Guidance to be developed by Target Not Achieved MUD group. (Contributes to This work is no longer being CP Output 1) carried out by the MUD Group.

104 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 105 Workshop to be run for Target Achieved UTILITIES inspectors within Extractive Workshop completed on 10 Industries & Waste Group, December 2019. INFRASTRUCTURE, PLANT & FLEET SAFETY (IPFS) Manufacturing group and Agri-food Group on agreed Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress standards for industry. partners (Contributes to CP Output 1) Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Three engagement meetings Target Not Achieved Guidance to be put on Target Not Achieved Regulations (ESQCR). with NIE to review their health First meeting with NIE website and circulated via The Product Safety Team and safety management conducted on 21 August NISG and Manufacturing NI. was not part of the New and their compliance with 2019, second meeting (Contributes to CP Output 1) Tech Delivery Teams. See the ESQCR legislation. on 8 January 2020, third above. (Contributes to CP Output 1) meeting postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. Planned visits to conveyor This work is no longer solely manufacturing companies by being carried out by the MUD group. (Contributes to MUD Group but will fall to CP Output 1) the sector that identifies the non-compliant equipment.

SAFE PLANT AND SAFE MAINTENANCE Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Welding equipment maintenance Raise awareness and the Target Ongoing (Partners - NISG & MNI & BCGA & standards within the welding Latter part of an initiative UKLPG). industry with regard to the being run over 2019–20 & maintenance of welding 2020-21. equipment. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

OTHER Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Health and safety mentoring to 50 visits to organisations Target Achieved businesses. which will provide advice and 51 business Advisory visits guidance which will increase carried out compliance and contribute to during the period 1.4.2019– a reduction in the number of 31.3.2020. dangerous occurrences and incidents. (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 & 4)

106 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 107 PUBLIC SECTOR FAIRGROUNDS

SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS (STF) MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS (MSDs) Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Raise awareness of the workplace Raise /discuss STF during Target Achieved Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) Participate in a seminar Target Not Achieved conditions associated with STF all visits/interactions as Raised during all site visits (Partners - PSG, SG, Fairground for fairground operators Unfortunately, despite (Partners – Health Trusts, NICS). appropriate. (Contributes to when appropriate and Operators). in partnership with the several contacts with the CP Output 1 and 4) during specific complaint Showmen’s Guild to raise Showman’s Guild it has not investigations. awareness of good Health been possible to arrange a and Safety Practices meeting. appropriate to fairground industry which will include the INSPECTION ACTIVITY principles of good handling Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress (MSDs). (Contributes to CP partners Output 3) Inspection work. Undertake inspections and Target Achieved In all inspections/interactions Target Achieved investigations across the Public Sector carried out discuss the ‘principles of Raised during all site visits public sector in line with 200 visits 1 April 2019 – 31 good handling (MSDs)’ as when appropriate and priority or emerging issues March 2020. appropriate, in particular during specific complaint and incident selection during the assembly and investigations. procedures. (Contributes to dismantling of the Rides. CP Output 1) (Contributes to CP Outputs 2 & 4)

PHYSICAL AND VERBAL ABUSE (PVA) Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Raise awareness of physical and verbal Organisational strategies for Target Achieved abuse in the workplace preventing/reducing both Raised during all site visits (Partners – Health Trusts, NICS, EA). physical and verbal abuse on when appropriate and

Front Line Staff will be raised/ during specific complaint discussed during all visits/ investigations. interactions as appropriate. (Contributes to CP Output 1 and 4)

108 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 109 EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRIES COMPETENT QUARRY MANAGEMENT Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress OCCUPATIONAL LUNG DISEASE – RESPIRABLE CRYSTALLINE SILICA (RCS) partners Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Undertake at least 80 inspections/ 80 quarries visited will either Target Achieved partners advisory visits be able to demonstrate they Management team and/ (Partners - MPANI & IOQ). have competent management or training needs will be Undertake at least 80 inspections/ Raise awareness of silica Target Achieved in place or have identified addressed during all site advisory visits within the extractive industry Raised during all site visits training needs with respect visits when appropriate and (Partner - Industry). sector. (Contributes to CP when appropriate and to the management team and during specific complaint Outputs 1 and 2) during specific complaint have plans in place to address investigations. investigations. any short-comings identified. (Contributes to CP Output 1) 80 quarries visited will either Target Achieved Liaise with the industry bodies Target Achieved have a Dust Strategy in place Dust Strategy raised such as IoQ and MPANI to HSENI liaised regularly with and work will have started to during all site visits when raise awareness of the need industry bodies. Attended implement the Strategy or the appropriate and during for a competent management quarterly MPANI Health & company will be subject to specific complaint team in support of this Safety Committee meetings. enforcement action. investigations. objective. (Contributes to CP (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 Output 1) and 2) Run 5 quarry Workshops for the Industry HSENI will identify suitable Target Achieved to raise awareness of the danger of total quarry companies to host 12 dust workshops inhalable dust and respirable crystalline these workshops. HSENI completed. (79 quarry silica dust and also to give examples of will arrange to invite the operators represented – 147 MACHINERY GUARDING how to make improvements neighbouring quarries to send attendees) Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress (Partners - MPANI & IOQ). delegates. (Contributes to CP partners Outputs 1 and 2) Undertake at least 80 inspections/ 80 quarries visited will have a Target Achieved HSENI will develop the Target Achieved advisory visits. safe maintenance procedures Safe Maintenance raised materials for the workshops Materials for workshops in place and all the machinery during all site visits when and deliver same. Workshops have been developed and will be guarded to the legal appropriate and during to last 1 hour. (Contributes to workshops have taken standard. (Contributes to CP specific complaint CP Outputs 1 and 2) place. Output 1) investigations. Any guarding defects Target Achieved identified will be the subject Guarding defects will be of enforcement action. checked during all site STABILITY OF QUARRY FACES, TIPS AND EXCAVATIONS (Contributes to CP Output 1) visits when appropriate and during specific complaint Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress investigations. partners Undertake at least 80 inspections/ 80 quarries visited will Target Achieved advisory visits either have Geotechnical Geotechnical Assessment (Partner - LSS). Assessment or a or Appraisal raised during all EXPLORATION DRILLING FOR GAS & OIL AND MINING RESOURCES Geotechnical Appraisal in site visits when appropriate Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress place or the company will and during specific partners be subject to enforcement complaint investigations. Undertake at least 10 inspections/ The visits will focus on Target Not Achieved action. (Contributes to CP advisory visits. machinery guarding; site Target dependent on activity Output 1) security and emergency by industry. No drilling Stability of quarry faces, tips Target Achieved arrangements for well control. operations for gas and oil and excavations will be a Stability of quarry faces, (Contributes to CP Output 1) were commissioned during standing item on all quarry tips and excavation will be this period. inspections. This will include raised during all site visits examining face inspection when appropriate and reports and the company’s during specific complaint Tipping Rules. (Contributes to investigations. CP Output 1)

110 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 111 VEHICLE / PEDESTRIAN SAFETY (VPS) CONCRETE INDUSTRY Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Undertake at least 80 inspections/ 80 quarries visited will have a Target Achieved Undertake at least 10 inspections/ The visits will focus on: Target Not Achieved advisory visits. brake testing area established Brake testing area was advisory visits in the Pre-stress Concrete concrete saw machines being A planned workshop and and results available for checked during all site products factories. fully enclosed to address follow up visits postponed examination. (Contributes to visits when appropriate and machinery guarding issues, due to technical issues CP Output 1) during specific complaint noise reduction; and reduction with the redesign of the investigations. of dust in the concrete saw guarding. Workshop 80 quarries visited will have Target Achieved premises visited. (Contributes rescheduled for 2020-21. addressed the issues set out Issues set out in the to CP Output 1) in the publication “Quarry publication were raised Vehicle Safety” produced during all site visits when Enforcement action will Target Not Achieved by HSENI examination. appropriate and during also be used as a means of Please see above. (Contributes to CP Output 1) specific complaint ensuring compliance. investigations. (Contributes to CP Output 1) Failure to address workplace Target Achieved transport issues will Failure to address workplace result where appropriate transport issues was OTHER in enforcement action. raised during all site visits Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress (Contributes to CP Output 1) when appropriate and partners during specific complaint investigations. Cross Border liaison with Health and Hold two meetings with Target Achieved Safety Authority. Health and Safety Authority Two meetings held with inspectors responsible for Health and Safety Authority the Extractive industries. 12th December 2019 and (Contributes to CP Output 1) 21st January 2020. MINING AND ABANDONED MINES Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Develop a workshop in conjunction with Provide support MUD Group Target Achieved partners MUD Group. in the preparation of a Provided support to the Undertake at least 10 inspections/ The visits will focus on Target Achieved Workshop. Carry out five joint Product Safety Group in the advisory visits major hazard topics such as Major hazard topic inspections with MUD Group development of a workshop (Partners - HSEMIN & DFE & NIMOC). machinery guarding; ground inspections completed on to assist in the development delivered to manufacturers control, in-rush prevention, electrical safety, fires on of the workshop. (Contributes of mobile crushing and transport, major hazards and mobile plant and ground to CP Output 1 & 3 see page screening equipment. electrical safety. (Contributes control. 14) Workshop occurred on the to CP Output 1) 28th January 2020. (MUD no longer involved) Providing support to the NIMOC Attend committee meetings Target Achieved (Partners - HSEMIN & NIMOC). and assisting with Emergency HSENI representative Planning and testing of attended NIMOC meetings. same. Carrying out site visits as and when appropriate. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

112 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 113 WASTE AND RECYCLING SECTOR VEHICLE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY (VPS) Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress OCCUPATIONAL LUNG DISEASE – (E.G. ASBESTOS AND WOOD DUST) partners Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Undertake at least 90 inspections/ Ensure 100% compliance Target Achieved partners advisory visits. with the provision of all-round All-round visibility and visibility and safe vehicle safe vehicle / pedestrian Undertake inspections at 15 sites – Determine has a trained/ Target Achieved / pedestrian interfaces in interfaces was raised ‘Asbestos Spotter’. competent person been 15 sites have been the 90 premises visited. during all site visits when appointed to identify inspected. (Contributes to CP Output 1) appropriate and during asbestos located in waste specific complaint deliveries and skips entering investigations. the recycling centre. (Contributes to CP Outputs 1 and 2) Where necessary Target Achieved enforcement action taken All-round visibility and to secure compliance. safe vehicle / pedestrian The presence of an Asbestos Target Achieved (Contributes to CP Output 1) interfaces was raised Spotter will be recorded on 15 sites have been during all site visits when the Site Inspection Report inspected. appropriate and during along with where necessary specific complaint any enforcement action taken. investigations. (Contributes to CP Outputs 1) Undertake inspections at 15 sites – Dust Determine if suitable and Target Achieved including wood dust and total respirable sufficient risk assessments 15 sites have been dust. are available in the waste and inspected. recycling industry to eliminate SLIPS TRIPS FALLS (STF) or reduce exposure to dusts. Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress (Contributes to CP Outputs 1) partners Where necessary any Target Achieved Undertake at least 90 inspections/ Ensure 100% compliance Target Achieved enforcement action taken. 15 sites have been advisory visits. with the provision of STF Provision of STF prevention (Contributes to CP Outputs 1) inspected. prevention strategies in strategies was raised the 90 premises visited. during all site visits when (Contributes to CP Output 1) appropriate and during specific complaint MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS – GOOD LIFTING AND HANDLING investigations. Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Where necessary Target Achieved Undertake at least 25 inspections/ Identify MSD issues Target Achieved enforcement action taken Provision of STF prevention advisory visits. associated with hand sorting 25 sites have been to secure compliance. strategies was raised of waste to seek application of inspected. (Contributes to CP Output 1) during all site visits when the hierarchy of controls such appropriate and during as, for example the possibility specific complaint of eliminating hand sorting by investigations. replacing with a mechanised system. (Contributes to CP Output 1) The presence of an Target Achieved adequate risk assessment 15 sites have been will be recorded and where inspected. necessary enforcement action taken to secure compliance. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

114 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 115 SAFE PLANT AND SAFE MAINTENANCE FIRE PREVENTION Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Undertake at least 90 inspections/ Ensure 100% compliance with Target Achieved Undertake at least 90 inspections/ Ensure that any poor practice Target Achieved advisory visits. the provision of safe systems Provision of safe systems advisory visits. with regard to fire prevention Poor practice with regard of work for maintenance of work was raised during all will be drawn to the attention to fire prevention was in the 90 premises visited. site visits when appropriate of the duty holder and referred discussed during all site (Contributes to CP Output 1) and during specific to NIFRS. (Contributes to CP visits when appropriate and complaint investigations. Output 1) during specific complaint investigations.

Site inspections will be carried Target Achieved out to identify any issues Provision of safe systems with ‘Lock Out, Tag Out, Try of work was raised during all OTHER Out’ safe system of work for site visits when appropriate Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress maintenance. (Contributes to and during specific partners CP Output 1) complaint investigations. Attend three WISHNI committee Provide support, Target Achieved meetings and support the work of this encouragement and give WISHNI Committee Where necessary take Target Achieved trade body some direction to the Waste meetings attended on enforcement action to ensure Provision of safe systems (Partners - W&RT & WISHNI). Industry to support HSENI’s 25/06/19, 11/09/19 and a safe system of work is in of work was raised during all priority areas as set out in this 13/11/19. place. (Contributes to CP site visits when appropriate plan. This can be measured Output 1) and during specific during inspections where Assisted in the delivery of complaint investigations. WISHNI has influenced a duty the WISHNI Ambassador holder to make improvements Awards on 11 March 2020. in the priority areas in advance COMPETENT MANAGEMENT of the inspector’s visit. Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress (Contributes to CP Output 1) partners Undertake at least 90 inspections/ Ensure 100% of organisations Target Achieved advisory visits. visited have a suitably Health and Safety qualified and competent Management was person in respect of health discussed during all site and safety management. visits when appropriate and (Contributes to CP Output 1) during specific complaint investigations.

Where necessary take Target Achieved enforcement action to ensure Health and Safety a compliance. (Contributes to Management was CP Output 1) discussed during all site visits when appropriate and during specific complaint investigations.

116 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 117 MAJOR HAZARDS GAS

MAJOR ACCIDENT PREVENTION GAS Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Upper tier COMAH site safety / Work in partnership with Target Achieved Gas Safe Register (CGRAS) Manage the transition period Target Achieved emergency plans NIEA to scrutinise and Completed review of safety (Partners - HSE & GSR & PES & FE & and ongoing operation GSR are working on the (Partners - NIEA & HSE). review safety reports for reports that were due during LPG & stakeholders). of the new Gas Installer delivery of a new database, relevant upper tier COMAH the operational year. New Registration Scheme contract the delivery date for this has sites in Northern Ireland and Emergency Plan template with HSE (GB) / Capita Gas been put back to November arrange for the provision of agreed. Ensured preparation Registration and Ancillary 2020. This does not affect any associated updates to and delivery of emergency Services (CGRAS) (which the operation of the register. external emergency plans. plan exercises including Old starts 1/4/2019) to ensure (Contributes to CP Output 1) Bushmills Distillery and the continuity and the registration 4 x Upper Tier COMAH sites of gas engineers. (Contributes within Belfast Harbour (Feb/ to CP Output 1) Mar 2020).

MAJOR INCIDENT PREPARATION OTHER Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Emergency plans for COMAH sites Ensure the continuity of Target Achieved Awareness of gas safety with other Promote awareness of gas Target Achieved (Partners - MHT & NIEA & ESA & ES & preparation, provision, Ensured preparation and regulators. safety and share knowledge Completed via Gas Safety PHA & LA & LEPG). maintenance and testing of delivery of emergency plan Safety cases with other Regulators by Group meetings with external emergency plans exercises including Old (Partners - HSA & CER). providing advice to local local council colleagues for COMAH sites, and major Bushmills Distillery and the councils and other groups as throughout the year (3 in accident hazard pipeline 4 x Upper Tier COMAH sites required to share statistics, 2019/2020 – 11/04/2019, operators as required by 31 within Belfast Harbour (Feb/ best practice and examine 16/10/2019, 12/12/2019). March 2020 (50 inspector Mar 2020). areas of working together. Also through ongoing liaison days). (Contributes to CP Dependant on availability of with HSE (GB) and GSR. Output 1) resource. (Contributes to CP Output 1) Ensure UT COMAH sites Target Not Achieved produce internal emergency However, internal plans Carbon Monoxide (CO) – Fossil Fuel Respond to reports of CO Target Achieved plans that meet the are considered as part Burning Appliances. from fossil burning appliances HSENI has responded needs of stakeholders, i.e. of the testing of external where the incident is related to several CO incidents emergency services, etc. to emergency plans. Work to a work activity. (Contributes from oil / solid fuel burning facilitate adequate liaison has been carried out on to CP Output 1) appliances (Apr 2019 and with emergency services to internal plans and further Jan 2020). produce practical plans and work is required including test the plans if required, by further engagement from 31 March 2021 (25 inspector emergency services. This days). (Contributes to CP has been impacted by Output 1) resource constraints on other stakeholders.

118 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 119 TRANSPORT RAILWAYS Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress SLIPS TRIPS FALLS (STF) partners Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Railway safety Respond to associated Target Achieved partners (Partners - ORR & RAIB & DfI). RIDDOR reports using a risk Investigated RIDDORs based approach and within including those that related STF inspections Respond to reports of Target Achieved the confines of available to contractors working on (Partner - LSS). unsafe STF using a risk STFs have been addressed resources. (Contributes to CP the railway. DFI are also based approach and within in response to complaints, Output 1) developing a programme the confines of available investigations and during of inspections with ORR for resources. (Contributes to CP inspections. 2020-21. Output 1) Annual level crossing Target Achieved inspections also to be carried Completed annual level out as required. (Contributes crossing inspections VEHICLE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY (VPS) to CP Output 1) with PSNI, Translink and Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Transport NI. partners Review of recommendations VPS inspections Respond to reports of Target Achieved in Railway Accident N/A (Partner - LSS). unsafe VPS using a risk VPS has been addressed Investigation Branch Reports based approach and within in response to complaints, and verification of actions the confines of available investigations and during taken, where required. resources. (Contributes to CP inspections. (Contributes to CP Output 1) Output 1)

VEHICLE LOADING / UNLOADING Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Vehicle loading / unloading inspections Respond to reports of Target Achieved (Partner - LSS). unsafe loading / unloading Loading / unloading safety associated RIDDOR reports issues have been addressed using a risk based approach in response to complaints, and within the confines of investigations and during available resources to ensure inspections. unsafe practices cease. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

CARRIAGE OF DANGEROUS GOODS Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Carriage of dangerous goods Respond to associated Target Achieved (Partners - HSE & HSA & DfT). RIDDOR reports and Liaised with PSNI colleagues complaints using a risk and conducted roadside based approach and within CDG inspections with PSNI the confines of available (Feb 2020) and conducted resources. (Contributes to CP duty-holder premise visits Output 1) separately (in 2019 and 2020). Objective 2: To maintain Target Achieved relationships with other Maintained relationships regulators in this arena. with PSNI, DfT and HSA. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

120 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 121 MENTAL WELL-BEING AT WORK PRODUCT SAFETY

Management Standards NON CE COMPLIANT PLANT BEING PUT INTO SERVICE Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Deliver ‘work-related stress’ workshops. Deliver 10 workshops from Target Achieved Identification and prevention of non- Investigate all reports of non- Target Achieved the existing suite of ‘Managing 10 ‘work-related stress’ compliant plant compliant products reported The Product Safety team Work-Related Stress’ courses. workshops delivered by (partners - HSE & EEA & MSAs & LAs). to HSENI. (Contributes to CP continues to investigate (Contributes to CP Output 4) 05.11.19. Output 1 & 4) cases of non-compliant and unsafe machinery involving local and EU manufacturers and importers, arising from complaints, inspections at Trade Shows and notifications from other European Market Surveillance Authorities. These have included lifts, machinery, quarry washing and screening products, industrial kitchen equipment and a host of large earth moving plant from within the EEA and from the middle and Far East.

Carry out advisory visits to Target Achieved manufacturers, importers, The Product Safety Team and product suppliers to continues to provide advice improve the knowledge base and guidance to importers of Product Safety regulation. and manufacturers to (Contributes to CP Output 1) improve their Product Safety knowledge and awareness. The Product Safety Team organised and spoke at an Extractive Industries workshop in January 2020 with the leading extractive industries within Northern Ireland. The outfall of this workshop continues, as HSENI raises the awareness and necessity of compliance with European Directives and BS EN standards, primarily concerning guarding.

122 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 123 OTHER MAJOR INVESTIGATION TEAM Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Identification and prevention of non- Work proactively with other Target Achieved partners compliant plant MSAs in Northern Ireland, The Product Safety Team Investigate serious and fatal injuries Investigation files completed Target Achieved (Partners - HSE & EEA & MSAs & LAs). and DFE, on the impact of has continued to work recommending prosecution where there in accordance with the MOU All serious and fatal injuries BREXIT in relation to Market closely with DfE and Local has been a serious breach of the law with the PPSNI leading to investigated recommended surveillance and product Authorities in NI to look (Partners - EEs & PSNI & FSNI & OST). successful prosecutions. to PPSNI where there had safety. (Contributes to CP at the implications of the (Contributes to CP Output 1) been a serious breach of the Output 1) Northern Ireland Protocol, if law. a no Free Trade Agreement with the European Union and its potential effect on Market Surveillance, and the potential for future possible regulatory divergence from Great Britain. In addition, the Product Safety Team represents HSENI on several committees and working groups including the United Kingdom Market Surveillance Network (MSN) which leads on the strategic direction of Market Surveillance throughout the United Kingdom, the BEIS’ Intel group that works on Intel sharing across United Kingdom MSAs, and to share best practice across various United Kingdom MSAs, the BEIS’ Northern Ireland Protocol Task and Finish Group, working with other MSAs who carry a MSA function solely in Northern Ireland or Nationally, to assess the implications for Market Surveillance post Transition period if no Free Trade Agreement is reached between Great Britain and the Union.

124 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 125 LEGISLATION Conclusion of operability Target Achieved amendments to domestic The EU Exit SI dealing retained EU legislation. with the “Carriage of Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress (Contributes to CP Output 6) Dangerous Goods” (which partners was to include Northern EU Exit Operable H&S regulatory Target Achieved Ireland provisions) is being Conclude outstanding work relating to framework regardless of A number of Westminster reviewed and redrafted by EU exit. This work will be dependent on EU exit outcome (partly EU Exit SIs are in place DfT to allow it to be debated whether or not there is ratification of a dependent on progress and as a result the NI H&S in Parliament before it is withdrawal agreement, including the final made by GB counterparts). regulatory framework will made (recommendation shape of a protocol on the Irish border, or (Contributes to CP Output 6) be operable in the event by the Westminster Sifting an exit with ‘No deal’ of a ‘no-deal’ exit. The Committee) and to include (Partners - HSE & UKGOV). European Union (Withdrawal provisions on derogations. Agreement) Act 2020 In view of this development received Royal Assent and in line with current on 23.01.20 and the UK Guidance, the NI CDG formally left the EU on provisions will now be taken 31.01.20. It has been agreed forward separately in a new that the UK’s exit will be N.I. Statutory Rule. The followed by a time-limited Product Safety, Metrology implementation period, and Mutual Recognition which will last until 11.00 Agreement (Amendment) p.m. on 31.12.20. The SIs (EU Exit) Regulations will come into force at the 2019 were made on 9 end of that period. Action September 2019 and is ongoing to consider include a further EU Exit- legislative amendments related amendment to the that may be required as NI ATEX regulations (the a consequence of the Equipment and Protective Withdrawal Agreement. Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017). Legislative alignment Target Achieved obligations from any On 13.03.20 HSENI withdrawal agreement met. completed a scoping (Contributes to CP Output 6) exercise on EU exit amendments in light of Withdrawal Agreement & NI Protocol. Monitoring returns on legislative activity in the implementation period are being completed on a regular basis. Identification of new Target Achieved departmental and operational Legislation Unit continues requirements that have to provide updates to emerged from EU exit operational colleagues work, and the operation of on the consequences of common UK frameworks (to legislative proposals relating include helping operational to EU Exit. and sponsor department colleagues understand these requirements). (Contributes to CP Output 6)

126 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 127 (Contribution to) development Target Achieved OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & HYGIENE GROUP of updated Agency Work is ongoing. HSENI Agreements and MoUs. has been liaising with HSE PROMOTION AND PARTNERSHIP (Contributes to CP Output 6) and other GB colleagues on draft agreements for Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress PIC, CLP and Biocides. partners REACH and GMO also under Workplace Health Leadership Group Provide up-to-date, Target Achieved consideration. Northern Ireland (WHLGNI) competent occupational Health advice provided Agency Agreements for (Partners - NISG & IOSH & PHA & BH & health advice to WHLGNI during attendance at Biocides and CLP were WISHNI). and signpost as required. meetings on 03.04.19, both signed off by Northern (Contributes to CP Outputs 2, 05.06.19, 26.06.19 and Ireland signatories during 3, 4 and 5) 11.12.19. November 2019. However, Develop an online toolkit Target Achieved HSE now wishes to review providing a ‘one stop shop’ Toolkit completed as of the agreements and further advice resource to employers 31 March 2020. Due to be drafts are anticipated. relating to occupational health launched 2020-21. Consultative & discussion documents Proposals for the Target Achieved and hygiene. This work would Publish Consultative Document in implementation of Directive A consultative document essentially be an extension

relation to → (EU) 2017/2398 amending was published on 5 of the WHLGNI website. (Partners - HSE & UKGOV). Directive 2004/37/EC on the November 2019 and closed (Contributes to CP Outputs 2, protection of workers from on 3 December 2019. 3, 4 and 5) the risks related to exposure to carcinogens and mutagens In partnership with WHLGNI Target Achieved at work. (Contributes to CP deliver a conference on Conference took place on Output 6) occupational ill-health. 20 and 21 November 2019. The Dangerous Goods in Target Not Achieved (Contributes to CP Outputs 2, Harbour Areas Regulations Documentation being 3, 4 and 5) (Northern Ireland) 2019 reviewed and updated now and approval for use in that the NI Assembly has Northern Ireland of GB ACoP. been restored. Liaison (Contributes to CP Output 6) taking place with DoJ on their development of the related Explosives in the Harbours Area Regulations (Northern Ireland). Progress delayed due to higher priorities.

Health & safety regulations NI SRs → The Radiation (Emergency Target Achieved (Partners - HSE & UKGOV). Preparedness and Public Regulations made on Information) Regulations 26th September 2019 to (Northern Ireland) 2019 – come into operation on 1st proposal for NI Regulations. November 2019. (Contributes to CP Output 6) The Freight Containers (Safety Target Not Achieved Convention) Regulations Progress delayed due to (Northern Ireland) 2019. other priorities. (Contributes to CP Output 6)

Approved codes of practice (ACoPs) → Amendment of the Target Achieved (Partners - HSE & UKGOV). EH40/2005 Workplace Revised EH40/2005 Exposure Limits Document. Workplace Exposure Limits (Contributes to CP Output 6) Document was formally approved for use in Northern Ireland and came into effect on 17 January 2020.

128 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 129 LABORATORY – SCIENTIFIC SERVICES COMPLAINTS

PROMOTION AND PARTNERSHIP COMPLAINTS Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners UKAS – quality management system Maintain UKAS accreditation Target Achieved Implement HSENI’s complaints handling Complaints policy Target Achieved (Partners - HSE & HSL). for all relevant Scientific UKAS accreditation policy as agreed by SMT in Jan 2019. implemented and quality New complaints policy Services functions. maintained following Feb assured. (Contributes to CP has been developed and (Contributes to CP Outputs 1) 2020 audit. Output 1) implemented. Heads of operational groups provided high, medium and low risk groupings for operational activities in their sector. Quality assurance carried out by active on-going monitoring, by head of OST. All complaints triaged in Target Achieved accordance with policy. This is monitored by the DP (Contributes to CP Output 1) of the group and overseen by the Grade 7. Weekly verbal discussion between the team members verifies this. All complaints responded to Target Achieved in accordance with policy. This is monitored by the DP (Contributes to CP Output 1) of the group and overseen by the Grade 7. Weekly verbal discussion between the team members verifies this. Grade 7 carries out regular checks via CMS to ensure that complaints are not waiting on the homepage longer than 5 days and also that there are no complaints in an individual’s CMS page which are outside the policy time limits. Develop and maintains links Target Not Achieved with HSE (GB) complaints Due to staffing pressures handling team to ensure this objective will be consistency of approach. followed up during 2020-21. (Contributes to CP Output 1)

130 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 131 COMMUNICATIONS NOTIFICATIONS

COMMUNICATIONS NOTIFICATIONS Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners partners Maintain HSENI’s website as a main Ensure links to necessary Target Achieved Process all notifications within guidelines 90% of RIDDOR notifications Target Not Achieved channel of health and safety information health and safety information A broken links report was and timescales (subject to resource processed within 5 days of This objective was not and advice. on HSE website maintained. requested from IT Assist to availability) receipt. (Contributes to CP achieved due to leave and (Contributes to CP Output 5) identify links that required (Partners - Comp & DI) . Output 7) a reduction in staff – the updating. Comms team figures provided by supplier continually review and below indicate that 83+% update links on the website were processed within 5 to ensure they are up-to- days. date based on this and the 90% of NI10 notifications Target Achieved Drupal report. processed within 5 days of While the figures provided Start development of a web- Target Achieved receipt. (Contributes to CP by supplier is 88.17%, this based information service The website has been Output 7) figure should be treated as to give essential workplace updated regularly with 90+% as supplier used case safety, workplace health workplace safety, health closure date as date when and mental health at work and mental health at work case was fully processed, information. (Contributes to information during the year. this method does not allow CP Output 5) any leeway for example Develop and maintains Target Achieved delays caused by queries links with HSE (GB) During the year HSE (GB) as a result of incorrectly communications branch were contacted regarding completed forms. to ensure consistency of sharing of artwork for 90% of L9 notifications Target Not Achieved messaging. (Contributes to Asbestos campaign and processed within 5 days of This objective was not CP Output 5) advice sought on HSE (GB)’s receipt. (Contributes to CP achieved due to leave policy on using images with Output 7) and a reduction in staff prosecution press releases. – the processing of L9 notifications was not regarded as priority during this quarter, however the backlog is now being addressed and should be up to date by end of Q1 2020- 21. 90% of IR17 notifications Target Achieved processed within 5 days of Supplier figure for Q4 is receipt. (Contributes to CP 89.47%, applying similar Output 7) principle as that for NI10s above, probably reasonable to state that 90% of such notifications were processed within 5 days of receipt. 90% of R32 notifications Target achieved processed within 5 days of All R32 notifications receipt. (Contributes to CP received have been Output 7) processed within 5 working days of receipt.

132 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 133 90% of planning notifications Target has been partially CORPORATE SUPPORT processed within 21 days of but substantially achieved receipt. (Contributes to CP Due to carrying vacancies CORPORATE SUPPORT Output 7) the team processing these have been involved in Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress other areas of work and partners one team member who Access to information - Board minutes. Publish minutes of all board Target Achieved was trained in this area left meetings on SharePoint and All final minutes from 2019- HSENI during the operating HSENI’s website. (Contributes 20 Board meetings have year. However around 90% to CP Output 9) been published on HSENI’s of these applications were website & Sharepoint. processed within the 21 Access to information - SMT minutes Publish minutes of all SMT Target Achieved days of receipt. (Partner – CEO). on SharePoint and HSENI’s All final minutes from SMT 90% of asbestos notifications Target Not Achieved website. (Contributes to CP meetings held throughout processed within 5 days of This objective was not Output 9) 2019-20 have been receipt. (Contributes to CP achieved due to leave published on HSENI’s Output 7) and staff vacancies – the website & Sharepoint. supplier figure of 58.57% Access to information - Annual Report Prepare (and lay before NI Target Achieved of such applications is (Partner – HOG). Assembly before the summer HSENI’s 2018-19 Annual significantly below target, recess 2019) HSENI’s Report and Accounts were however a new AO joined annual report and accounts. laid before the NI Assembly the team in February 2020 (Contributes to CP Output 9) on 9 July 2019. and it is anticipated that Customer Care - Monitoring exercise Carry out a Customer Care Target Achieved the target of 90% will be (Partner – HOG). Monitoring Exercise by Customer Care Monitoring achievable by end of Q1 December 2019. (Contributes Exercise carried out 2020-21. to CP Output 9) December 2019. 90% of asbestos licence Target Achieved Equality - Annual Equality Report Complete and submit Annual Target Achieved applications started within 5 All applications for asbestos (Partner – EC). Report to the Equality Annual Report was days of receipt. (Contributes licences are now started Commission by 31 August submitted to the Equality to CP Output 7) within 5 working days of 2019. (Contributes to CP Commission. receipt. Output 9)

134 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 135 FINANCE TEAM

BUDGET MANAGEMENT Action / Intervention and potential Target Output/s Progress partners Prepare HSENI’s Statement of Annual HSENI accounts Target Achieved Accounts for 2018-19 and liaise with completed, audited and HSENI’s Annual Report and representatives of NIAO to ensure these published. (Contributes to Accounts were laid before the are audited and finalised before the CP Outputs 8 and 9) NI Assembly on 9 July 2019. summer recess 2019 (partner – NIAO). Administer Programme payments within Prompt payment target Target Achieved the prompt payment targets set by achieved. (Contributes to CP HSENI paid 98.7% of its Treasury (30 days) and where possible Outputs 8 and 9) invoices within 10 working within Better Payment Practice (10 days). days and 100% of its invoices within 30 days.

136 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 137 138 Annual Report 2019–2020 Annual Report 2019–2020 139 Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland 83 Ladas Drive, Belfast, BT6 9FR, Northern Ireland

Telephone: (028) 9024 3249 Helpline: 0800 0320 121

Textphone: (028) 9054 6896 Facsimile: (028) 9023 5383 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hseni.gov.uk

A large type version of this text is available on request from HSENI. The text of this document is also available on the HSENI website: www.hseni.gov.uk ISBN 978-1-906452-29-2 140 Annual Report 2019–2020