2014

Noted (AI summary) AMDEA's Technical Manager on Refrigeration together with industry safety specialists prepared a basic proposal for change to the international standard IEC 60335-2-24. This proposal was placed before the BSI committee CPL61 and was accepted as a UK proposal for change at international level in 2014; the UK proposal was accepted by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) meeting in Tokyo. BSI Committees CPL/61 and PEL/33 reviewed the points raised and are submitting a proposal to the International Committee to add a warning about supply cords and portable socket-outlets to relevant appliances, and a new test for non-metallic material covering thermal insulation. The Society explains its role as a professional body for forensic science practitioners, noting that their reports are usually delivered directly to those who engaged them and may be sensitive or confidential. They state that forensic scientists are rarely involved in fire investigations unless they are serious, unexplained or suspicious, and that the fire service and/or police usually investigate. CFOA will engage proactively with DCLG to help develop the future IRS and the ease by which this type of information can be gathered, accessed and disseminated. CFOA will provide guidance to FRS by April 2015 to help ensure that the information provided on IRS is as accurate and meaningful as is possible to facilitate the ease by which DCLG could provide it to TS and manufacturers if they decided to do so. BIS will consider consistency of guidance and sharing of best practice as part of the independent review of consumer product recalls. The potential for a Code of Practice will also be considered as part of the independent review. BIS will continue to support AMDEA's Register my Appliance site.

Noted (AI summary) North Devon District Council will undertake an audit of signs at the beaches under their control and ownership. They also intend to bring the issue to the attention of their partner organisations. Parkdean states that the signage at Croyde Beach has been designed and erected in agreement with the RNLI and they consider the signage in place is appropriate and sufficient. However, the company is willing to discuss the matter further with the RNLI and act upon any recommendations suggested. The MCA states that the placement, content and maintenance of signage at Croyde Beach is not their responsibility, nor the RNLI's. The MCA will proactively engage with the RNLI on this issue and offer support where necessary.

Noted (AI summary) BHRS will include an article on avoidance and recognition of atrio-oespohageal fistula in its winter newsletter and remind members to ensure this complication is recorded in the national cardiac rhythm management database. BHRS will work with the AF Association and A-A to re-design the information relating to complications of AF ablation to include information on recognition of symptoms and a leaflet will be developed by the end of March 2015. Public Health England states that the case is not something they can directly assist with, but understand that the Department of Health will contact appropriate bodies. The Department of Health contacted the BCS who are considering circulating a letter to relevant surgeons. A copy of the coroner's letter and the response from the Department of Health will be sent to the BCS and the RCS.

Noted (AI summary) The Home Office acknowledges concerns about the supply of prescription-only medicines online, noting ongoing work with law enforcement and internet providers to close illegal websites. They highlight international collaboration and monitoring efforts but describe no new actions.