A raft of new and amended business laws and regulations have come into effect since 1 April – a number of them directly related to HR. This is our round-up of the key changes.

Increased workplace benefits
Since 1 April, Statutory Maternity Pay, Statutory Adoption Pay and Statutory Paternity Pay have risen from £112.75 to £117.18 weekly; Statutory Sick Pay has risen from £72.55 to £75.40 weekly.

Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007
Introduced on 6 April, the Act introduces a new UK-wide offence for prosecuting companies and other organisations where there has been a gross failure in the management of health and safety with fatal consequences.

Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses (Amendment) Regulations 2007
New rules have been added to the duties of employment agencies since 6 April, increasing protection for work-seekers and temporary workers, and reducing regulatory burdens on employment businesses.

Information and Consultation of Employees Regulations
These rules, which require employers to inform and consult with employees or their representatives (and the similar rules requiring employers to consult with members of pension schemes and their representatives before making major changes to future pension arrangements), were extended on 6 April to cover businesses with 50 or more employees (previously 100).

Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (Amendment) Regulations 2008
Following a successful High Court challenge, since 6 April employers have had a legal requirement to take steps to prevent harassment of staff by customers – for example, pub bar staff being propositioned by drinkers.

Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005
Already in force generally, these rules now apply to all workplaces where music is played, such as restaurants, theatres and bars. Since 6 April, all entertainment businesses have had to protect staff from exposure to excessive noise, including carrying out risk assessments and providing hearing protection as necessary. Read advice for employers.