Health and safety | UK Regulatory Outlook October 2025

HSE call for evidence on lifting equipment and pressure systems regimes 

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a call for evidence on the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations and the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations). The review, announced under the government’s Regulatory Action Programme, seeks input on burdens, fitness for current practice and technology, and opportunities to improve clarity and effectiveness. 

HSE is particularly interested in evidence on administrative costs that do not clearly support risk reduction and on areas where requirements may lag current practice; for example, inspection intervals, documentation and digital monitoring. Responses from duty-holders, trade bodies, insurers and competent persons will inform whether to consult formally on amendments to the regulations in 2026. 

The call closes on 11 November and submissions can be made via the HSE e‑bulletin portal here and here. 

HSE for World Mental Health Day 2025 emphasises move from 'talking' to 'doing' 

HSE highlighted World Mental Health Day on 10 October by urging employers to move beyond awareness and to take practical steps to prevent work-related stress. 

Kayleigh Roberts, HSE’s work-related stress policy lead, said: “We’re asking employers to keep talking – but start doing. Even small changes, like reviewing workloads or improving communication, can make a big difference. The organisations that thrive are those that tackle the root causes of stress early.” 

The HSE emphasises that protecting mental health is not just good for people, it is good for business, too.  

Government commits to resolving Building Safety Regulator application backlog by year end 

In a Westminster Hall debate on the performance of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) held on 23 October, the government committed to recruiting 100 more inspectors by December to address a backlog of "gateway two" applications. However, it has ruled out offering higher wages explaining that, while this might attract talent, it risks destabilising partner organisations by drawing from the same limited pool of skilled specialists. Instead, the government emphasised that a long-term workforce strategy is needed to build system-wide capacity. Work is underway with local authorities, the BSR and registered building control approvers to help shape the strategy. 

The BSR's backlog in processing gateway two applications – which are meant to be processed within 12 weeks – has created a significant bottleneck. However, repeated assurances were given that delays would be resolved by the end of the year, noting that a new innovation unit is presently dealing with 27 newbuild applications and meeting the 12-week target. MPs have raised concerns due to 70% of applications being returned, primarily due to documentation errors rather than safety concerns. To address these issues, a further suite of industry guidance on statutory documents, staged approvals and gateway three will be published by the Construction Leadership Council in mid-November.