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Protecting Migrant Workers – new HSE guidance

A new HSE Information Sheet for employers of migrant workers has been produced. It describes the practical steps that small and medium enterprises with migrants in the workforce can take to ... Read more »

QUESTION OF THE WEEK – What is CE Marking? And is there a legal requirement to CE Mark timber windows?

BWF members such as yourselves frequently use our Member and Technical Helplines for assistance on a wide range of Employment, Health and Safety, Pay and Technical issues. For the next few weeks, ... Read more »

£2,500 more funding for apprenticeships – but not for long!

The National Apprenticeship Service will provide up to 5,000 Apprenticeship Grants for Employers of 16 and 17 year olds (AGE 16 and 17) with a value of £2,500 to encourage employers to take ... Read more »

Water, water everywhere is the Welsh Assembly’s answer to fire protection in the home. BWF expresses grave concerns.

In a surprise decision, the Welsh Assembly has voted to make sprinkler systems mandatory in new homes to be built in Wales. https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/5213864.article

Asbestos – The Survey Guide

This heavily illustrated publication replaces and expands on MDHS100, surveying, sampling and assessment of asbestos-containing materials. It is aimed at people carrying out asbestos surveys and ... Read more »

Supervising for safety in woodworking – HSE’s updated guidance

Employers have to make sure supervisors receive adequate health and safety training. This should include training in how to use the work equipment under their control, the risks involved and the ... Read more »

Government adds social criteria to its timber procurement policy

Environment secretary Hilary Benn has announced that all Government procurement contracts for timber products will, from 1st April 2010, include social criteria as contract conditions, in ... Read more »

Maximum compensatory award limit for unfair dismissal claims drops from £66,200 to £65,300

The compensatory award for unfair dismissal claims has been reduced with effect from 1 February 2010 to reflect the recent fall in RPI. The maximum award, which had been linked to the RPI for ... Read more »

QUESTION OF THE WEEK – How do I retire an employee?

Construction Skills Network Predicts Construction Recession To End In 2011

The CSN's latest forecast echo predictions of a slow return to growth in construction.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK – Is it necessary to give an employee a written contract of employment?

Fire doors on Facebook

In order to increase information about the BWF-CERTIFIRE Fire Door and Doorset Scheme and the correct specification and installation of fire doors, you can now follow news and comments about ... Read more »

Chief Executive’s Blog: Oh. Bugger.

Looks like I'm not the only pessimist in the room.

Chief Executive’s Blog: Building The Industry’s Showcase

The Wood Awards needs the support of the timber industry. The BWF is delighted to be sponsoring them again.

Building Designers Urged To Use New Fire Retardant Specifiers Checklist

The Wood Protection Association has produced a guide to help specifiers check flame retardants are fit for the purpose required.