Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 7
7
However, data and intelligence are essential resources for regulators to identify emerging risks more quickly...
Conclusion
However, data and intelligence are essential resources for regulators to identify emerging risks more quickly and decide what action to take in response. The OPSS described to us some useful data sources, such as its cosmetics database and fire and accident data. However, the OPSS acknowledged it needs to collect better data and insight to identify safety problems more effectively.8 This concern was echoed by the consumer body Which?, who stressed to us that the OPSS needs systems to collect, analyse and share data across the product safety regime to ensure a more proactive and intelligence- led approach.9 Similarly, the London Fire Brigade told us that better data on fires exists through insurance bodies and forensic investigators, but there are no formal reporting mechanisms and the regulatory regime relies on manufactures and other stakeholders to self-identify safety problems.10
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
1.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Spring 2022 1.2 The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) agrees to write to the Committee within six months of the PAC report to detail the progress made on OPSS’s data strategy. 1.3 OPSS is currently developing a data strategy, including improving its intelligence sources and identifying data gaps. It has four main objectives: • shaping OPSS’ organisational activity and approach using the power of data; • ensuring effective use and control of data OPSS owns and shares with others; • using data and outputs to drive behavioural change in consumers, businesses and the public; • targeting OPSS’ regulatory activity towards the greatest risks using data and analysis. 1.4 The data-sharing pilot with the NHS should be completed by Spring 2022 following which the results will be evaluated to understand the benefits, insights and challenges involved. OPSS will include an update on this work when it reports back to the Committee. 1.5 OPSS will also continue to develop and utilise its internal data sources, including the Product Safety Database which records hazardous and non-compliant products identified by UK market surveillance authorities and can be used to identify trends and areas of specific risk. For example, OPSS’ intelligence unit is currently trialling new software that will facilitate the collection of corroborated intelligence, adding an additional layer of value to OPSS’ intelligence products, thereby enhancing operational decision making. OPSS’s risk unit is also developing new risk assessment methodologies to ensure that OPSS’ regulatory activities are targeted towards the highest risks.