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Health and safety at work
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 applies to everyone at work, whether self-employed, an employer or an employee. Employers must take reasonable steps to protect the health, safety and welfare of the people working for them. They must also think about the health and safety of anyone that might be affected by their activities or lack of action, including customers, visitors and contractors. No business is too large or too small to escape these duties.
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the wide range of regulations made under it are enforced by local authorities or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), according to the main activity of each individual work premises.
Local authorities have responsibility for the enforcement of health and safety legislation in 1.2million business premises; in offices, shops, retail and wholesale distribution outlets, hotels, restaurants, residential care homes and throughout the leisure industry.
The HSE enforces the legislation in industry (factories, farms and building sites).
Common questions about health and safety
What is health and safety all about?
Preventing people from being harmed by taking the right precautions and providing a safe working environment.
Why are there health and safety laws?
Because health and safety at work is so important, there are rules which require all of us not to put ourselves or others in danger. The law is also there to protect the public from workplace dangers.
Who do health and safety laws apply to?
They apply to all firms, however small, to employees and to the self-employed.
What do inspectors actually do?
They visit workplaces to check that people are sticking to the rules and to help them understand what is required to conform with the law. They enforce only when something is seriously wrong.
Do I need to register my business?
Probably - contact Medway Council or the Health and Safety Executive.
Do I need to have employers' liability compulsory insurance?
Yes, it's the law if you employ anyone and you should display the certificate.
Do I need to display any posters?
Yes, if you employ anyone you should display the health and safety law poster. To order a poster, ring HSE Books on 01787 881165 quoting ISBN 0 7176 1380 1.
Where can I get further information about health and safety?
The HSE infoLine, telephone 0845 3450055 or the HSE website (www.hse.gov.uk).
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