News Archive
Risk Alert – Heathrow Airport
Heathrow airport is closed today (Friday 21st March 2025) due to a fire in a nearby electrical Substation.
Risk Alert Spontaneous Combustion
Read our latest risk alert which explains the science behind spontaneous combustion and discusses the activities that can cause it and some measures that Members can take to prevent it.
Risk Alert Red – Wildfire
With the possibility of extended periods of dry, warm, and windy weather, we want to remind our Members that these conditions can significantly heighten the risk of wildfires, creating an environment where even a minor ignition can develop into a fast moving fire front within minutes. Given the increasing frequency of warm weather wildfire conditions across the UK, this hazard should remain firmly on the UMAL risk agenda.
Conflict in Iran, Israel and broader region – Updated 9th March 2026
As of 4th March, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advise against all travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Iran and parts of Lebanon. They advise against all but essential travel to most other countries in the Middle East.
Risk Alert – Travel to USA
There have been recent media reports regarding difficulties experienced by some travellers when attempting to enter the USA, including people being detained or refused entry allegedly due to having messages critical of President Trump on their electronic devices.
Risk Alert – Storms
Forecasters continue to warn people to expect a stormy start to 2025, with a yellow weather warning for high winds expect over the coming week. We encourage our Members to keep up to date with the various weather forecasting sites, use the early alerts to help with preparation and allocation of resources needed.
Risk Alert Artificial stone – respirable crystalline silica (RCS)
Artificial, engineered, reconstituted, or sintered stone has become increasingly popular in the construction and interior design sectors. In many cases, these engineered products contain up to 90–95% crystalline silica, making them a significant source of silica dust during fabrication and installation. This Risk Alert explains the potential risks associated with the use of these materials and controls that can be implemented to reduce them.
Contract Works Guidance Document
This guidance is intended to assist with managing Contract Works that are conducted on behalf of UMAL Members. Contract Works are generally specific works or projects conducted by external contractors and involve a construction contract under which a UMAL Member employs a contractor to conduct Works. This guidance document will help navigate the Contract Works landscape by explaining common terminology, highlighting relevant regulations and best practice and how to make sure that Works are covered correctly.
Risk Alert Escape of Water – The Members Story
UMAL can share statistics on loss……. but this does not reflect what Members really face…….. let our Members tell you their stories of escape of water.
New Crisis24 Horizon Platform
UMAL are upgrading from the current Global Risk Manager platform to the new Crisis24 Horizon platform on Tuesday 16th April.
Risk Alert Amber – Theft
To enhance personal and University property security, members should adopt practical measures to safeguard against theft in high turnover environments.
Risk Alert Red – Winter Conditions
2024 UK forecast: colder, wetter, windier weather increasing health and safety risks. Slip, trip, fall injuries and property damage costs rise. Gritting, property maintenance, and travel precautions advised.
Motor Insurance – What are my obligations?
HMSL places motor insurance for the fleets of over 60 UMAL Members. These fleets range from just a handful of vehicles up to nearly 200 vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Regardless of the size of your fleet, you have a number of responsibilities.
Risk Alert: Photovoltaic Panel Risk Management
There has been a gradual increase in the number of Photovoltaic installations on campus sites, most being roof level installations on newer buildings, but some being ground based systems are now appearing, each type having risks attached.
