Regulatory updates – March 2010

Below we list the new regulation updates – there is a summary of what they are about, but we strongly recommend that you follow the hyperlink and read the whole regulation update.

• Introduction of important changes to medical statements
  From 6 April 2010, the format of medical statements – also known as sick notes – will change

• Introduction of monetary penalties for data protection breaches
  From 6 April 2010, serious data protection contraventions may result in a penalty of up to £500,000

• New eco-design standards for certain high-intensity lamps
  From 13 April 2010, new performance and efficacy requirements apply to office and street-lighting lamps

• New right for employees to request time to train
  From 6 April 2010, employees of larger employers will have the right to ask for time to do job-related training

• Increase in landfill tax
  From 1 April 2010, the standard rate of landfill tax will rise to £48 per tonne

• New eco-design standards for certain high-intensity lamps
  From 13 April 2010, new performance and efficacy requirements apply to office and street-lighting lamps