Why choose HSL?

The Defence and Security sector encompasses a wide range of private and government bodies, from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to the Home Office. Staff at the MOD - one of the largest and most heavily-funded government departments - now come under health and safety at work legislation, meaning the ministry must now comply with certain regulations for staff in both domestic and 'active' service.

How can we help?

Most MOD projects are contracted and delivered by a company called 'Prime Suppliers', who then sub-contract and collaborate with a number of other specialist organisations - including us. So far, we've delivered technical support, consultancy and analytical services in the following areas:

• Engineering. We've used impact testing on various materials and devices, as well as conducting forensic examinations for corrosion, fatigue, compression and shear.
• Fire. HSL has been involved with flammability testing on composites and alloys for aerospace companies, and have also designed and evaluated fire-suppression systems for maritime use.
• Explosion. Including EMTAP-testing for explosive materials.
• Personal Safety. This has included evaluation work and advice on personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Occupational Health. Including full reviews of staff health needs, employment health checks and technician training.
• Safety Culture. We've carried out an independent review of safety procedures, assessing the potential impact of stress on staff, advising on working procedures and ways to encourage a safety-conscious culture.
• Ergonomics. Combining the correct attitudes and processes with properly-designed workstations.
• Incident Investigation. Including independent reviews of incidents and near-misses.

With an increased threat from terrorism in recent years, HSL have also been called upon to work with the Home Office Scientific Development Branch (HOSDB), Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) and the Police National CBRN Centre, as well as various police constabularies and fire & rescue organisations.

So far, we've helped to develop:

• Protective wear for workers in contact with CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear) stimulants, thanks to our extensive experience in occupational hygiene and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) evaluation and design.
• Safe decontamination and undressing procedures
• Evaluating the design of body bags, and finding the best ways to decontaminate them in CBRN incidents.
• A better level of protection in security devices, thanks to our understanding of explosive materials and their potential impact on individuals/ the national infrastructure if used in situations such as public transport.

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