Business news from Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale

Date published: 09/02/2006

New packaging waste legislation comes into force

The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2005 came into force on 1 January 2006. The legislation means that more packaging waste needs to be recycled and recovered and that more businesses will be covered under the legislation.

Any business handling more than 50 tonnes of packaging and with a turnover of more than £2 million is obligated. The 2005 Regulations have been amended so that smaller businesses will be allocated an obligation by the appropriate Agency based on their turnover in the previous year. Obligated businesses must comply by providing Packaging Waste Recovery Notes (PRN).

Fair Energy Deals

The Federation of Small Business (FSB) and Energywatch are fighting for fairer energy deals for small businesses. They have launched a campaign to get a fairer deal for small businesses from gas and electricity companies. The “Make the Connection” Campaign will point out that small business energy use is very similar to domestic use.

The FSB and Energywatch are calling for energy companies to deliver:

• Fair and clear energy contracts
• Terms and conditions of contracts to be made clear at the point of scale
• Better standards of customer services
• Accurate, clear and timely energy bills

The FSB recommend that industry needs to make the connection with their business consumers to find out how they can start making small businesses lives easier.

Noise at Work

New regulations on noise and vibration require employers to manage the disabling yet preventable risks of noise induced hearing loss and hand-arm vibration syndrome. The seminar is aimed at those responsible for managing the risks such as employers, safety advisors and safety representatives. The event will include explanations of the new regulations, practical approaches to managing and controlling the risks, the requirements of health surveillance and a question and answer session with the expert speakers.

Venue: City of Manchester Stadium

Cost: FREE

Date/Time: 23 Mrach - 9am or 1pm start time

For more information or to book a place contact Trevor Bates Groundwork: 0161 624 1444