Ignoring workplace safety rules puts jobs at risk, expert warns

Josh McNicholas from Evalu-8 EHS shared five common health and safety breaches seen in UK workplaces that could cost you your job if ignored. 

McNicholas said failing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety boots, helmets, goggles or gloves, is not acceptable, even in extreme weather like a heatwave. 

He said PPE is not optional and refusing or forgetting to use it can be treated as gross misconduct, especially if it puts you or others at risk. 

Not reporting hazards or incidents was another key breach he mentioned. 

McNicholas explained that employees are expected to report unsafe conditions or accidents at work. 

If someone is found to have known about a risk but did nothing, it could lead to disciplinary action.

Using equipment without the right training or permission was also a serious issue, McNicholas raised.

He noted that most workplaces have strict rules about training and certification.