Scotland: Standing on the cusp of change

There was an energised feel in the air at Glasgow last month, as industry leaders North of the border mapped out their future intentions for waste and resources policy at the annual Scottish Resources conference. Freelance writer Maxine Perella reports.

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Keeping the workforce safe in a risky working environment

Paul Shaw examines the occupational hazards experienced by front line workers in the waste management industry and looks at measures on how to protect them against risks including working with highly combustible materials, exposure to harmful substances and confined space working.

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Financing for growth amid the green shoots of recovery

There have been more than a few green shoots noted in the economy in the recent past, so it’s no surprise that senior decision-makers are now turning their minds to growth opportunities and how this can be achieved in a sustainable and successful way. Sean Dixon, head of services sector, Royal Bank of Scotland, looks at how businesses can plan for growth.

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Physical fire breaks offer concrete solution

With the large number of fires occurring at waste and recycling facilities across the UK, Owen Batham at Elite Precast Concrete, argues there is a growing need for firms to take a more proactive approach to their fire risk management and to develop more sophisticated disaster recovery plans.

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Dust and odour suppression: How to achieve the sweet smell of success

As pollution controls continue to tighten, the companies that tackle odour and dust are enjoying a period of growth; especially as these by-products of processes, ranging from sewage treatment to food factory production, are no longer tolerated by the public - or the statute books. Victoria Madine reports

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Ensuring employee's health & safety

Health & safety has particular importance for waste management which has historically fared badly when it comes to injury rates and fatalities. Chris James, CEO of WAMITAB, emphasises the role training can play in raising standards.

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Are undeployed airbags safe to reuse?

Airbags are believed to have contributed to significant improvements in vehicle occupant safety. However, there are no definitive guidelines over the potential to reuse undeployed airbags. Chas Ambrose and Roger West examine the issue and report how a study commissioned last year seeks to shed light on the debate.