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August 12, 2024

Blackline Safety Appoints New Chief Financial Officer, Robin Kooyman

Calgary, Canada — Blackline Safety Corp. (TSX: BLN), a global leader in connected safety technology, is pleased to announce the appointment of Robin Kooyman, CFA, MBA, as the company’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective September 9, 2024.

Kooyman brings 15 years of global experience in finance, capital markets, and strategic leadership, having held prominent positions with Brookfield Corporation, TD Securities and RBC Capital Markets in Canada, the U.S., and the UK.

She joins Blackline Safety from Charger Ready Properties, an energy transition business, where she served as CFO establishing the accounting, finance, IT, and legal functions. Previously, she served as CFO at Certarus, a rapidly growing North American distributor of low carbon energy solutions. During her term the company saw its adjusted EBITDA double and was acquired by Superior Plus for over $1 billion in 2023.

During her tenure as a Senior Vice President of Investor Relations at Brookfield Renewable in London, England, she played a pivotal role in boosting stock market visibility and supporting over C$1.0 billion equity issuance. Kooyman also brings extensive experience in the capital markets having held positions as Head of Global Clients – Europe, Global Equity Sales for RBC Capital Markets, and Director, Institutional Equities at TD Securities.

“I am thrilled to join Blackline Safety at this attractive inflection point in its growth story, building on its strong foundations,” said Kooyman. “Blackline Safety is defined by helping workers come home safely every night, and it is clear that the market opportunity is immense.”

“I am delighted to welcome Robin to Blackline Safety as Chief Financial Officer. Robin brings the skills and experience required as we enter our next phase of expansion,” said Cody Slater, CEO and Chair of Blackline. “Her energy, drive, and global experience will undoubtedly contribute to our financial strategy and support our mission to transform the industrial workforce.”

Mr. Slater continued, “On behalf of the Board, I would also like to acknowledge and thank Elisa Khuong for acting as Interim CFO and supporting a seamless transition. We will continue to benefit from her extensive expertise as she resumes her role as Vice President, Accounting & Corporate Controller effective upon Robin’s appointment.”

As a CFA Charterholder and with an MBA from the London School of Business, Kooyman also brings leadership in developing sustainability strategies and establishing strong ESG credentials. In addition, she volunteers on the Board of Wood’s Homes Foundation, serves on the Limited Partner Advisory Committee (LPAC) for The 51 (Fund II) and regularly mentors women through Women in Capital Markets (VersaFi).

About Blackline Safety: Blackline Safety is a technology leader driving innovation in the industrial workforce through IoT (Internet of Things). With connected safety devices and predictive analytics, Blackline enables companies to drive towards zero safety incidents and improved operational performance. Blackline provides wearable devices, personal and area gas monitoring, cloud-connected software and data analytics to meet demanding safety challenges and enhance overall productivity for organizations with coverage in more than 100 countries. Armed with cellular and satellite connectivity, Blackline provides a lifeline to tens of thousands of people, having reported over 225 billion data-points and initiated over seven million emergency alerts. For more information, visit BlacklineSafety.com and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Instagram.

August 12, 2024

Violent Riots in the UK Highlight the Importance of Employee Safety

Riots and violence exacerbate the UK’s employee personal safety crisis. Peoplesafe reports a 10% increase in demand for personal safety alarms over the past fortnight as more businesses prioritise genuine safety measures over mere tick-box compliance.

As the recent spate of riots and violence continues to send shockwaves through workplaces and communities, leading personal safety technology provider Peoplesafe has observed a 10% surge in demand for personal safety alarms in the last two weeks alone.

This sharp increase, alongside extensive media coverage, highlights the serious concerns workers across various sectors have regarding their personal safety. Staff who work alone, especially in retail, hospitality, and healthcare, are feeling increasingly vulnerable.

“Incidents like these bring personal safety concerns to the forefront, but this is not solely due to isolated events—it’s an ongoing issue,” says Peoplesafe CEO Naz Dossa, who also serves as the Chair of the Lone Working Group at the BSIA.

Research shows that seven million workers in the UK worry about their safety each week. Even before the riots, 57% were already anxious about facing aggression from the public, and one in four were reluctant to take roles involving face-to-face interaction with the public. Personal safety concerns were cited by 62% as a significant factor.

This situation is unacceptable. Everyone, regardless of their background, has an absolute right to feel safe and secure at work. Excuses are no longer viable. Ensuring the personal safety of the UK’s workforce must extend beyond traditional 9-5 office hours. Recent events have made it clear that our workforce requires this support not only on the job but also during their commute.

While no employer can eliminate every threat, they can certainly provide comprehensive support and essential resources, including personal safety technology, to mitigate risks and offer employees peace of mind with the assurance that an emergency response is available if needed.

Case Study: Ingenica Solutions

Ingenica Solutions, a leading provider of bespoke software solutions for the healthcare sector, approached Peoplesafe after their staff, who visit NHS Trusts and community hubs, voiced concerns about their safety.

Ingenica Solutions Executive Chairman, Stephen O’Callaghan, says: “We take great pride in our culturally diverse team and were deeply concerned about their personal safety following the recent unrest.

Introducing personal safety technology into our business was already under consideration, but recent events have pushed it to the top of our HR agenda. Our response was swift, with all Ingenica field staff now equipped with the Peoplesafe app as an additional layer of protection, alongside our standard company safety protocols and HR guidelines. As employers, while we may not be able to eliminate all personal safety threats, we can certainly take steps to reduce them.

The Peoplesafe App provides our staff with peace of mind, knowing they can trigger an immediate emergency response, which is invaluable. Moreover, this protection extends beyond standard working hours, as the app operates 24/7.”

Naz Dossa, CEO of Peoplesafe, adds: “The recent riots and violence have only intensified the need for businesses to prioritise employee safety. We have witnessed a 10% increase in demand for our services in just the last two weeks.

No sector should be exempt from this responsibility, and more employers need to move beyond basic health and safety compliance. Technology is already playing a crucial role, but more decisive action is needed to overcome the challenges we face. Protecting and enhancing the lives of our collective workforce will ultimately create a safer, more sustainable, and successful future for every sector.”

August 12, 2024

Registration Data Highlights Building Control Profession’s Dedication to High Standards

Building Control registration data shows a growing trend of professionals joining the registered ranks, highlighting the industry’s dedication to maintaining high standards.

The extension of the transition period allowed industry professionals ample time to adapt to the new requirements at a reasonable pace, ensuring they could continue providing essential services without disruption.

As of 30th July 2024, there were 4,049 building professionals registered as building inspectors in England and Wales. These Registered Building Inspectors are committed to adhering to the Code of Conduct.

The registration breakdown is as follows:

Class 1 (Trainee): 1,971
Class 2 (Registered Building Inspector): 1,614
Class 3 (Specialist Building Inspector): 464
Class 4 (Building Inspector – Technical Manager): 516

Commenting on the latest figures, Ged Cooper, BSR Head of Building Control Professional Standards, stated, “We are encouraged by this steady increase in numbers and pleased to see consistent success in Class 2 and Class 3. It’s also heartening that many are progressing to Class 4 technical managers. We expect this positive trend to continue.”

“BSR is committed to being a fair and pragmatic regulator. The decision to extend the period for building inspectors to complete their competency assessments underscores our dedication to a supportive regulatory environment and ensuring fairness in building control.”

Building Control Bodies are required to seek regulatory advice from Class 2 or Class 3 RBIs to perform their duties effectively. The BSR has begun investigations and inspections of these bodies, requiring evidence to confirm they have the necessary resources to fulfil their regulatory responsibilities.

During the transition period, the BSR acknowledged the challenges faced by the sector. This included allowing a limited number of professionals who had completed the competency assessment process by the 6th July deadline, but were awaiting their results, to continue performing the restricted activities for which they had been assessed.

Looking ahead, Ged Cooper remarked, “As an enabling regulator, the BSR focuses on facilitating compliance and supporting building control professionals with clear regulatory pathways and frameworks. Building control plays a crucial role in the construction process, and we value the contribution of building inspectors in assisting Building Control Bodies.”

“The profession is entering a transformative era, with unified and consistent standards making it an attractive career choice. Enhanced professional standards will lead to stronger compliance with building regulations, setting high standards as the norm, rather than the exception.”

BSR believes that increased transparency and accountability within the building control sector will boost public confidence and trust, ensuring that building work is rigorously and consistently regulated. This improved status is expected to attract new professionals to the sector and help retain existing talent, contributing to a more robust and effective building control landscape.

August 9, 2024

The Health and Safety Implications of Working in Heat and Sun

As temperatures across Europe continue to rise, the health and safety of workers exposed to heat and sunlight are becoming increasingly important. Extended periods of exposure to high temperatures can pose significant risks, not only to the well-being of employees but also to workplace productivity and safety. It is crucial to understand these risks and to implement preventative measures to maintain a safe working environment.

Health Risks of Working in Heat

Working in elevated temperatures carries several health risks. One of the most immediate concerns is heat stress, which can lead to heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion is a common condition in these environments, characterised by symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke, a serious condition where the body’s temperature regulation fails, causing rapid temperature increases. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can lead to confusion, unconsciousness, or even seizures, and can be fatal without prompt treatment.

Dehydration is another significant risk when working in hot conditions. The increased fluid loss through sweating can quickly lead to dehydration, resulting in headaches, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function. Workers must maintain adequate hydration levels to prevent these effects.

Sun exposure also brings the risk of sunburn, a condition caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunburn can lead to painful redness and, in severe cases, blistering. Over time, repeated sunburns increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious form.

In addition to these physical health risks, working in high temperatures can cause increased fatigue, which impairs concentration and overall performance. This can heighten the risk of accidents, as workers may struggle to maintain the precision needed for their tasks.

Safety Implications of Working in Heat

The safety implications of working in hot conditions are profound. The cognitive impairment and delayed reaction times caused by heat can significantly increase the risk of workplace accidents. Workers who are fatigued or dehydrated are more likely to make mistakes, potentially leading to injuries or accidents that affect others.

Moreover, extreme heat can impact the performance and reliability of machinery and tools. Overheated equipment is more prone to failure, which can create hazardous situations, including the potential for fires or explosions.

Another concern is the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hot conditions. Some types of protective gear, such as gloves and helmets, may become uncomfortable or less effective when temperatures soar. Workers might be tempted to remove or adjust their gear, which compromises their safety.

Preventative Measures

To mitigate these risks, employers should implement a comprehensive heat management plan. This plan should include monitoring weather conditions, scheduling regular breaks, and ensuring that workers have access to shaded areas and cooling facilities. Providing hydration stations where workers can easily access water is essential. Encouraging frequent hydration, even before the onset of thirst, can help prevent dehydration and its associated risks.

Education and training are also vital components of a safe working environment in hot conditions. Workers should be trained to recognise the signs of heat-related illnesses and understand the importance of hydration and sun protection. Additionally, they should be educated on the correct use of protective clothing and equipment.

Adjusting work schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day can also help to reduce the risk of heat-related health issues. Shifts that start earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon are preferable during periods of extreme heat.

Employers should also provide appropriate personal protective equipment designed for effectiveness in hot conditions. This includes breathable clothing, wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.

Finally, it is crucial to establish clear emergency response plans for dealing with heat-related emergencies. This should involve having trained first-aid responders on site and ensuring that workers know how to access medical assistance promptly if needed.

To conclude, as Europe continues to experience rising temperatures, it is essential for both employers and workers to be aware of the health and safety implications of working in heat and sunlight. By understanding these risks and implementing appropriate preventative measures, workplaces can protect their employees from the dangers of heat exposure, ensuring their health and safety. Investing in these precautions not only safeguards workers but also enhances productivity and reduces the likelihood of heat-related incidents in the workplace.

August 9, 2024

Avetta Named a Top Contractor Management Solution in Canadian Occupational Safety’s Readers’ Choice Awards

Avetta®, the leading provider of supply chain risk management (SCRM) software, was named a Canadian Occupational Safety’s Readers’ Choice in the Contractor Management Solutions category. This is the sixth time the company has received this recognition.

“Avetta has made a commitment to helping our clients, suppliers, and contractors alike build safe, secure, and sustainable workplaces,” said Arshad Matin, CEO of Avetta. “We’re honored to be recognized by those we serve for the work we’re doing to help them streamline contractor management, maintain compliance, and minimize workplace injuries and fatalities.”

As contractors increasingly use subcontractors to enhance the services provided to clients, it is critical that workers are qualified for the work they’re hired to do. Avetta improves visibility and simplifies contractor and subcontractor sourcing. From gathering insights to checking compliance, Avetta provides clients with an in-depth view of all the information they need to streamline contractor management with just a few clicks.

The survey for the Canadian Occupational Safety’s ninth annual Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 took place between April 1 and 26, 2024. The COS team compiled for nomination an impressive list of vendors and suppliers to the OHS community from across the country, based on the team’s knowledge and additional research within each area.

Readers were invited to cast their ballots in an online survey, and responses were completely confidential. Research participants were asked to rate products and services available to the OHS profession across a number of categories, including consultants, emergency management, ergonomics, facility safety, and more. The top three nominees who received the most overall votes were awarded the Readers’ Choice designation.

About Avetta

The Avetta SaaS platform helps clients manage supply chain risk and their suppliers to become more qualified for jobs. For the hiring clients in our network, we offer the world’s largest supply chain risk management network to manage supplier safety, sustainability, worker competency, and performance. We perform contractor prequalification and worker competency management across major industries all over the globe, including construction, energy, facilities, high-tech, manufacturing, mining, and telecom. Visit https://www.avetta.com/ for more information.

August 9, 2024

Logistics Company Fined £1 Million After Worker Suffers Severe Injuries in 11-Metre Fall

A logistics company has been fined £1 million after an employee fell over 10 metres, sustaining severe injuries.

On September 20, 2022, Christopher Hooper, 31, from Winchester, suffered fractures to his skull, back, pelvis, arm, wrist, and ankle after falling 11 metres at the DP World Southampton terminal. He fell through an open hole in the driver’s cab of a straddle carrier, landing on the concrete floor below.

The hole, left exposed by contractors replacing a glass floor, posed a serious risk to Mr. Hooper and other workers.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors found that Southampton Container Terminals Limited, trading as DP World Southampton, had failed to ensure a safe system of work at their Western Avenue site. Mr. Hooper, who had worked for the company since he was 17, was performing routine maintenance work and was unaware of the open hole before his fall.

The HSE investigation revealed that Southampton Container Terminals Limited did not establish a safe system of work that could accommodate both the glass floor replacement and routine maintenance simultaneously. Furthermore, the company lacked a proper risk assessment and failed to enforce its own policy requiring permits for working at height.

In a victim personal statement, Mr. Hooper, who was 29 at the time of the incident, shared: “I feel like a puppet in my life, being moved from therapy to therapy with no control over where I am going. It feels like my life is in a waiting room. Early on, after leaving the hospital, I had closer milestones that felt achievable, but now no one can tell me what I can do next. This uncertainty is deeply affecting my day-to-day life as I don’t know what the future holds.”

Southampton Container Terminals Limited, based on Palace Street, Westminster, London, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. On August 2, 2024, at Southampton Magistrates’ Court, the company was fined £1 million and ordered to pay £11,664.59 in costs.

HSE inspector Francesca Arnold commented: “This incident resulted in severe life-changing injuries for Mr. Hooper, who is fortunate to be alive. His life has been irrevocably altered due to Southampton Container Terminals Limited’s failure to conduct a proper risk assessment and implement straightforward control measures.

“The dangers of working at height are well-known and documented. This prosecution serves as a reminder to employers that neglecting to manage and enforce effective safety measures can have serious consequences, and they will be held accountable. Information on working at height safely is readily available on HSE’s website.”

The prosecution was led by HSE enforcement lawyer Andy Siddall and supported by HSE paralegal officer Rebecca Withell.

About HSE People

HSE People is an online network of professionals who work within Health and Safety, the Environment and Sustainability and Risk and Compliance. We provide our members with free resources such as our career portal, events calendar, industry news, access to whitepapers, eBooks and webinars as well as information about products and services. The aim of HSE People is to support those who Protect People, Places and the Planet.

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