An employer's legal responsibilities regarding health and safety include the following key duties:
- Providing a safe workplace free from serious recognized hazards and complying with relevant health and safety standards, rules, and regulations
- Conducting risk assessments to identify potential hazards to employees and others affected by the business, and implementing measures to control or eliminate these risks
- Establishing and maintaining an occupational health and safety system integrated into operational processes, including appointing competent persons such as occupational doctors and safety officers to monitor compliance
- Providing necessary safety training and information to employees to ensure they can work safely and understand health and safety procedures
- Supplying appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when risks cannot be otherwise controlled, following a suitable and sufficient risk assessment
- Ensuring safe use, storage, and movement of equipment and substances , including managing risks from hazardous substances, noise, vibrations, and biological agents according to specific regulations
- Maintaining adequate welfare facilities such as first aid, toilets, washing, and drinking water appropriate to the workplace size and nature
- Consulting employees and their representatives about health and safety risks and preventive measures
- Having a written health and safety policy if employing five or more people, and ensuring access to competent health and safety advice
- Reporting work-related injuries, illnesses, and dangerous incidents to the relevant authorities such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Ensuring safe access and egress from the workplace and ergonomic workplace design to prevent accidents and work-related health risks
- Collaborating with other employers or contractors sharing the workplace to maintain health and safety for all
Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in legal sanctions including fines, imprisonment, and disqualification of company directors
. In summary, employers must proactively manage workplace health and safety by assessing risks, implementing controls, providing training and equipment, consulting workers, and complying with all relevant laws and regulations to protect employees and others affected by their operations
