LAs & Science Planning 2010 and beyond - FOR ACTION

This article explains the procedure in place for local authorities (LAs) wishing to propose a health or safety research project with effect from 17^th September by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The details of how HSE, when developing procedures, can best take account of LA requirements are still under consideration and we need to have discussions with LACORS as thinking develops.

Broadly, the expectation is that as LAs develop proposals they should be discussed with the relevant Sector (usually STSU) before submitting a bid either via STSU or directly to Corporate Science Unit (CSU). Where the issue is not obviously relevant to a Sector the bid should be submitted directly to CSU, who will decide if further consultation within HSE is required before giving detailed consideration to the proposal.

If LAs have particular topics they currently wish to have considered in the immediate future, they can submit them directly to CSU within HSE (Julia.O’Hara@hse.gsi.gov.uk) as part of the current planning round (all we are seeking is an outline proposal linked to business need). However, it is not absolutely essential that LAs submit proposals at this stage as provision for emerging issues will be accounted for within developing procedures.

If you do have proposals that you want to submit at this stage to HSE (details above) please can you also copy (karen.ashdown@lacors.gov.uk) in so that LACORS are aware of what ideas have been submitted.