Policy and Procedures

Health and Safety Policy

If your business employs 5 or more people, this includes Directors, part time staff and voluntary workers, it is a legal requirement to have a Health & Safety Policy in writing.

Your policy should include: how you will manage hazards and risks in your business, and demonstrate your commitment to ensuring the health safety and welfare of your employees, contractors and those affected by your work. It should also identify the roles and responsibilities within the business, identify the arrangements that you have in place for managing different aspects that affect those who either carry out work or who may be affected by the work being done. For example;

Working at heights
Welfare facilities
First aid procedures
Electrical appliances
Driving company vehicles
COSHH procedures

Your policy should carry a signature from the last 12 months, this means that your policy should be reviewed at least annually.

Penalties for health and safety offences

The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (the HSW Act), section 33 (as amended) sets out the offences and maximum penalties under health and safety legislation. Failing to comply with an improvement or prohibition notice, or a court remedy order (issued under the HSW Act sections 21, 22 and 42 respectively);

Lower court maximum £20 000 and/or 12 months’ imprisonment.
Higher court maximum Unlimited fine and/or 2 years’ imprisonment

For further information, email: helen@stairconsultancy.co.uk