Health & Safety
Protecting businesses and employees
There is a legal responsibility from an employer or self employed person for the health and safety of everyone affected by a business. This includes employees, subcontractors, visitors, customers and even members of the public affected by the products or services. There is also a responsibility for the environmental impact of a business. Carrying out regular risk assessments is a key part of identifying and controlling health and safety and environmental hazards. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) website http://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/index.htm| covers the basics.
Business Essentials
- Adequate facilities for eating, resting, sanitation and first aid. See related documents for the for the HSE guides
Display the Health & Safety Law poster – see the HSE site| for further information - A health and safety policy (a written policy for businesses with 5 or more employees) – see the HSE site| page for examples and guidance
- Risk assessments - see the HSE site| page for examples guidance
- Work equipment inspection records (required by law) - this includes lifting equipment, pressurised systems or local exhaust ventilation to control exposure to substances used at work – see the Business Link page carry out an environmental review of your business|
- Written safe working methods
Records of health and safety training carried out - A valid employers' liability insurance certificate – see the Business Link guide to Insurance for further information on what a business needs to cover
- A valid public liability insurance| certificate – see the Business Link guide to Insurance for further information on what a business needs to cover
Visit HSE’s website www.hse.gov.uk/business| to find out what help is available for your business. You may also find it helpful to discuss matters with your trade association.