How 5 key health & safety trends will impact independent retailers in 2025

With a dynamic landscape shaped by new legislation, technological advancements, and shifting workplace expectations, here's what to look out for in the world of health and safety this year.

Among the changes in Government, taxation and economic landscape that are set to impact independent businesses in 2025, health and safety regulation and trends may be at risk of getting overlooked.

But with a dynamic landscape shaped by new legislation, technological advancements, and shifting workplace expectations, it is important to stay on top of what’s coming in the world of health and safety.

Here are five key trends to watch—and how they’ll impact your business.

1.  Legislative Changes: Employment Rights Bill

The Labour government’s Employment Rights Bill proposes significant reforms to worker protections and business practices, including:

• Guaranteed Hours: Ending exploitative zero-hours contracts and requiring predictable work schedules.
• Day-One Rights: Expanding protections like unfair dismissal, parental leave, and bereavement leave from the first day of employment.
• Flexible Working as Default: Mandating employers to justify why roles cannot accommodate flexibility.
• Strengthening Statutory Sick Pay: Providing coverage from day one of employment.

Impact on Independent Retailers:

The new rights could create a need for some retailers to reassess contracts, adapt scheduling systems, and ensure they are compliant. The increased focus on employee well-being and job security that the new regulations are targeting could have a positive impact on well-being within the workforce, but shops may have to prepare for potential business impacts.

2.  Enhanced Security Measures: Martyn’s Law

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, known as Martyn’s Law, aims to increase public safety in response to rising security threats. It mandates counter-terrorism training, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness for public-facing businesses.

Impact on Independent Retailers:

With the introduction of the bill, businesses will be incentivised to train staff to identify and respond to potential risks. These requirements may bring additional costs which may have to be considered in retailers’ financial plans, however they also reinforce customer trust by demonstrating a commitment to safety.

3.  Building Safety Act 2022: Compliance & Oversight

The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced stringent safety regulations for multi-occupancy buildings, overseen by the Building Safety Regulator. The Act requires those  operating in such premises to comply with enhanced fire safety, structural safety measures, and regular inspections.

Impact on Independent Retailers:

An ongoing consideration set to continue into 2025, retailers and landlord or building manager coordination will remain key to meeting safety standards, while non-compliance could result in fines or reputational damage, making proactive planning essential.

4.  The Growing Role of Technology

The integration of smart technology in health and safety is becoming increasingly vital. Key advancements include:

• Internet of Things (IoT) Sensors: Monitoring air quality, temperature, and crowd density in real time.
• Digital Training Platforms: Offering accessible health and safety education for staff.
• Automated Reporting: Streamlining incident logging and compliance checks.

Impact on Independent Retailers:

Upfront investment remains a tricky hurdle when it comes to incorporating new technology, particularly when costs are expected to rise in 2025. However, positive long-term impacts including reduced risks, simplified compliance and better monitoring of incidents can be big wins for retailers when bringing in health and safety innovations.

5.  Mental Wellbeing in the Workplace

With workplace mental health now a cornerstone of employee well-being, businesses are expected to take proactive steps to support their teams. Flexible working arrangements, access to mental health resources, and open communication channels are among the key trends.

Impact on Independent Retailers:

Issues such as stress, anxiety, mental fatigue and burnout will still be key for businesses to incorporate into their workplaces in 2025, with fostering a positive work environment through compassionate management set to be thought of as a key feature of good health and safety policy throughout the coming year.

To discover more about upcoming trends in health and safety and how to incorporate them into your business’ overall HR approach, WorkNest is hosting a free one-hour webinar which will include details and guidance on more changes to look out for in 2025.