Development of Novel, Risk- Based Guidance for the Glazing of Highly Glazed Buildings

ISSUE 25 JULY 2003 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATE TOPIC GROUPS HSE has undergone, and continues to undergo, significant internal change, managed through the ‘Changing HSE’ Programme aimed at keeping HSE relevant and effective and able to adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities. The Change Programme has considered how best to organise elements of HSE’s science and technology staff resources to provide corporate science and technology support for the benefit of all of HSE. As a result, a number of Corporate Topic Groups (CTGs) have been established. CTGs are groupings of topic-based staff, formed initially from teams previously located in HSE’s Technology Division and Health Directorate. They now form discrete organisational entities, located as Units for the most part within appropriate operational directorates. Dr Paul Davies, HSE’s Chief Scientist and Director of Corporate Science and Analytical Services commented ‘The new CTG system offers HSE an opportunity to ensure that science and technology is – and is perceived as – an equal partner with policy and operations in the development of policy and its delivery’ Currently, 10 CTGs have been established. These are: Health Effects of Chemicals (Industrial Chemical Unit); Pesticides and Biocides; Occupational Hygiene; Noise and Vibration; Construction Division Technology Unit; Process, Materials and Systems Safety; Biological Agents; Radiation Protection; Electrical and Control Systems; and Medical Sciences Unit (still under development). Also under consideration are CTGs for human factors and mechanical engineering. The current functions of CTGs include: developing individual topic strategies for input into HSE’s overall Science and Innovation Strategy; developing guidance and standards in support of HSE’s strategic programmes; providing science and technology evidence and advice in support of policy projects; providing advice and technical support to operational directorates; horizon scanning in topic areas to identify potential future issues for health and safety; and providing a head of discipline or topic focus. Both the Biological Agents and Construction CTGs have an extended role, as some staff also have front line inspection duties, whilst the Health Effects of Chemicals and the Pesticides and Biocides CTGs have statutory duties involving, respectively, the notification of new substances and the approval of new pesticides and biocides. HSE’s Corporate Science and Knowledge Unit (CSKU) has a central role in supporting and helping CTGs to develop and carry out their responsibilities. CSKU will work with the Heads of CTGs and their home Directorates, advising and assisting with the implementation and development of their new roles. For further information on CTGs or CSKU, please contact the Head of CSKU: Mr B Fullam. (Tel: 0151 951 4115). email: [email protected] In this Issue...