Health and Safety That Moves Research Forward.
Expert support in laboratory health and safety, biosafety and lab compliance. Let's make it happen.
Why use HSSC?
We understand the science — not just the rules. With extensive research experience and a practical mindset, we help you meet your obligations without slowing down innovation. No generic checklists. Just the right support to move forward safely.
Let's make it happen.
Biography
HSSC was founded by Dr Maxwell Handley to support SMEs in the research and technology sector achieve and maintain compliance with UK health and safety legislation.
The consultancy specialises in general and laboratory Health and Safety, Biosafety, Biosecurity, COSHH, GMO (CU), and Non-Ionising and Ionising Radiation Safety. Maxwell is particularly experienced in helping start-ups develop robust Health and Safety management systems from the ground up.
Maxwell holds a BSc in Biochemistry with Cell and Molecular Biology and a PhD in Molecular Imaging. With a research background rooted in multidisciplinary laboratory environments, he brings a deep, practical understanding of the techniques and challenges found across the fields of biology, chemistry, and physics.
Maxwell has held senior roles in both academic and industrial research settings. His responsibilities have included serving as Head of Health and Safety, Biological Safety Officer, Radiation Protection Supervisor, Laser Safety Officer, Facilities Manager, and member of Biological/ GM Safety Committees.
He is a Technical Member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and a Member of the Institute of Safety in Technology and Research (ISTR).
Maxwell approaches every project with a clear mindset: “Let’s make it happen.”
Services
Competent Advisory Service
Health and Safety Management Systems
Notifying Regulatory Authorities
Ongoing support and guidance to help your organisation meet its legal health and safety obligations. Specialist advice on Health and Safety, Biosafety, Biosecurity, COSHH, genetically modified organisms, and Non-Ionising and Ionising Radiation Safety.
Notifying Regulatory Authorities
Health and Safety Management Systems
Notifying Regulatory Authorities
Whether you are working with human or animal pathogens or genetically modified organisms, we can fully support your organisation through the notification process.
Health and Safety Management Systems
Health and Safety Management Systems
Health and Safety Management Systems
Development and implementation of H&S management systems that are practical, scalable, and fit for purpose.
Gap Analysis
Document Authorship and Review
Health and Safety Management Systems
Identification of compliance gaps and practical recommendations, to ensure your H&S systems are of the highest standard.
Risk Assessment Review
Document Authorship and Review
Document Authorship and Review
Review of new and existing risk assessments, including COSHH and GMO, to ensure they are “suitable and sufficient”.
Document Authorship and Review
Document Authorship and Review
Document Authorship and Review
We can assist in authorship of critical safety related documents including H&S and site policies, codes of practice/ local rules and standard operating procedures.
Laboratory Design and Operation
Site Security Planning and Procedures
Site Security Planning and Procedures
Specialist input on setup and operation of laboratories, including CL2/ CL3 facilities and cleanrooms.
Site Security Planning and Procedures
Site Security Planning and Procedures
Site Security Planning and Procedures
Assessment and recommendations for physical and procedural security measures.
Emergency Response Planning
Site Security Planning and Procedures
Emergency Response Planning
Support with spill response procedures, exposure protocols, and business continuity planning in hazardous laboratory environments.