In this month’s Health and Safety update, our H&S Consultant, Colin Jones discussed the importance of H&S in the workplace and why all employers need it.
Now in its 48th year. Its radical 1972 report formed the basis of the 1974 Health and Safety at Work etc Act. The multiple inspectorates for different industries were abolished and the Health and Safety Executive was established to inspect workplaces, enforce the law, provide advice and conduct research to improve safety and health.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 lays down wide-ranging duties on employers. Employers must protect the ‘health, safety and welfare at work of all their employees, as well as others on their premises, including temps, casual workers, the self-employed, clients, visitors and the general public.
It also places responsibility on employees to ensure they adhere to safety measures and take care of their own safety and that of others who may be affected in carrying out their duties and report any issues regarding health and safety.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the governmental appointed body that is responsible for enforcing workplace health and safety legislation in the UK. However, when it comes to enacting enforcement, this responsibility is generally divided between the HSE and relevant local authorities.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is the principal piece of legislation for occupational health and safety in Great Britain, there are other regulations to implement which are designed to keep your workplace compliant and safe. There are 13 regulations that apply across the full range of workplaces. In addition, there are other regulations to cover particular areas such as asbestos, chemicals, construction and gas.
The following are those regulations that apply:
If you require assistance with understanding or ensuring your business complies with these regulations, the team at HPC can assist you with expert advice and guidance, get in contact to discuss with us today.
Choose who will help you manage health and safety in your business
What a policy is and how it helps you manage health and safety
How to identify hazards and assess risks at work
Involve your workers and inform them about health and safety
Tell your workers what their health and safety duties are
Have toilets, washbasins and other welfare facilities workers need
Advice on your first aid kit, training workers and appointing first aiders
You must display the poster or give workers the equivalent leaflet
Find out why you may need employers’ liability insurance
The Health and Safety at Work Act, criminal and civil law
You must report certain injuries, near-misses and work-related illnesses to HSE
More than ever Health and Safety need to be at the forefront for everyone. Health and Safety is not a burden, it plays a vital role in the wellbeing of all. Done right, it can impact positively on organisations and the workplace in terms of morale, reputation, cost savings and in some cases be the difference of winning new business!
You never know the real value of expert Health & Safety advice until you face problems in the workplace through injury or claims, we are here to help you avoid and protect your business from this risk.
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