I've just read the news that the HSE's Infoline will go in September. I instantly thought of the number of times I've seen "call Infoline" as a response to questions on this forum relating to RIDDOR and wondered if the loss of this resource is going to lead to under-reporting. I am aware that the HSE have been upgrading their website so maybe there won't be a problem... What do you think? http://healthsafety.jigs...the-hse-reporting-system

Is this real? I have just put up 15 new H&S law posters, these all have the infoline number on them. I also issue the HSE law leaflet to all new employees - there are 100's of them in circulation now. What's the betting a new poster is on its way - *sigh*. We also have 100s of employees who don't have access to computers!! (We are in Devon, I am sure these things will arrive soon but still)

Indeed, however, I'm concerned that when someone wasn't sure if something was reportable or not they could call the Infoline for advice - after this is gone, is there a chance they will decide not to report if they are uncertain?

Will PM - I'm moving jobs to Plympton soon!

Just a thought. We have until 2014 to put up the ‘new’ HSE posters or we will be breaking the law. These replace the name of the local HSE office with the Infoline number The HSE has decided to get rid of the Infoline from the end of this year. Will this make the ‘new’ posters invalid before we have even put them up? Will we have to spend money buying new 'new' posters?

If we are forced to buy new posters then I suggest someone who works for a private employer with some time and money on their hands (they might exist somewhere!) challenge this decision on the grounds that it is unreasonable and contrary to law – government should not be changing regs just to make some money. I’d love to have a go but since I work for the government any money we spend with the HSE just goes back into the Treasury money go round!

Desert Didn't HSE Direct close at the end of 2009 when HSE books started carrying the pdf versions to download? So that's two card you can get rid of - that's progress for you! Brian

My problem will be that I will not be able to find the answer to my question using the HSE website as I struggle now to pin down what I want even when I know its there. Take Care

Response from HSE received yesterday regarding the Posters Mr Pickles, Sorry for the slow response. I have been asked to clarify the issues surrounding the Infoline number on the new law Poster. The law poster will be amended but it will not be revised until we go for reprint, for existing stock, we are designing a sticker to place over the reference to Infoline. There is no legal requirement for business to purchase a new poster with the sticky label on, they do still need to have the new poster by the specified change date. I hope this helps. Please let me know if you need any further details. Graham Graham Schofield Head of Publishing and Creative Services Communications Directorate Health and Safety Executive

That'll look really cool, I do hope it's another hologram! I have some spare Dr Who stickers i might put on my posters ;)

I have only ever used the info line once several years ago. The person I spoke to could not answer my query and he admitted that he was not an HS expert, but he said that he would make some enquiries and come back to me. When he rang me back he could only refer me to guidance on the web site that I was already aware of. From this experience I formed the view that the info line was staffed with students or admin staff that simply knew what info was available on the HSE web site. Not value for money. With regard to the HSE posters, I have never agreed that businesses should be compelled by law to buy posters that has some very basic information on ie a couple of names and phone numbers. Every business employing +5 people should have the ability and facilities to produce and display this info for themselves, for a few pence. Pity Lord Young missed this one. Steve

Interesting that the HSE are now pushing enquiries towards the commercial sector (e.g. Consultants) for the non savvy web based users! http://www.hse.gov.uk/firstaid/accessing-faams.htm