Health and safety at work - regulation and inspection
The Health and Safety Unit within the Council carries out regular checks on offices, shops, warehouses, places used for leisure activities and other non-industrial premises. (The Health and Safety Executive deal with factories and other industrial operations). This ensures that safe and healthy working conditions are provided for all employees, the self-employed and members of the public visiting these premises.
Inspections
Inspections are carried out on a routine basis usually by prior arrangement with the organisation, higher risk premises being inspected more frequently.
When inspectors from this section inspect work premises they will assess how you are managing risks to yourself, your employees and others who may be affected by what you do. the will concentrate on those things which are most likely to kill, injure and make people ill at work (priority topics/topic inspections) as a means of finding out how you are able to manage health and safety. They will also expect you to have identified and taken action on other risks which are created by your work activities.
Unsatisfactory inspections
Where work practices or conditions fall short of what is regarded as satisfactory every attempt will be made to resolve the situation by informal means, but if this is not possible, or if the danger posed gives rise to a risk of serious personal injury, then officers will resort to formal action. This could involve either the service of a legal notice, prosecution, or in situations where immediate serious personal injury could arise, a prohibition notice requiring immediate action.
Health and Safety Complaint Investigation
Complaints about working conditions are always investigated sensitively and the complainant's confidentiality is assured. Such matters are usually resolved by giving advice to the employer, but as with accident investigation, if formal action is needed then this will be taken.
Health and Safety Accident Investigation
The investigation of dangerous occurrences and accidents at work also forms an important part of the Section's work. The outcome of these enquiries usually involves the giving of advice to the employer. If a blatant breach of requirements is identified as the main reason for an accident happening, then formal action will be taken.
In the event that someone who has been injured as a result of a work related accident wishes to pursue a compensation claim their legal advisor may wish to obtain a factual statement from us. This details the investigation into the accident and the findings. This can be provided upon payment of the appropriate fee (current at the time of request).
Information and Advice
The Council is committed to working together with proprietors and managers to achieve high standards and prevent problems. We are always willing to give advice on legislation, or practical problems, so if you are considering setting up a business, or wish to discuss anything in relation to your existing premises, please feel free to contact us.