Our main areas of activity are:

Inspecting places of work

Inspections are carried out on a routine basis, the visits can be unannounced or by prior arrangement with the organisation, higher risk premises are visited more frequently. Lower risk premises may only receive occasional visits or a self-inspection questionnaire.

When health and safety officers inspect work premises they will assess risks to yourself, your employees and others who may be affected by what you do. The officer will concentrate on those things that are most likely to kill, injure or make people ill at work (topic inspections, or priority areas) as a means of finding out how you manage health and safety.

During an inspection the officer will look at the level of health and safety training for managers and employees to ensure that it is suitable. Checks may also be made on the adequacy of structural and environmental conditions and that plant and equipment are maintained.

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 injury, then officers will resort to formal action.

This could involve either the service of a legal notice or prosecution. In situations where serious personal injury could arise, a prohibition notice requiring immediate action.

Investigating accidents, dangerous occurrences and diseases at work

The law requires employers to report certain types of work related accidents, diseases or dangerous occurrences. Officers will investigate the most serious of these accidents or the ones that fall within the topic inspection areas.

Investigating complaints from employees or members of the public

Every year employees and members of the public contact the Health and Safety Team to complain about a safety or welfare issues at a place of work within the Borough. All complaints are dealt with confidentially and no names are released without the permission of the complainant. The Officer will make unannounced visits and carry out inspections to identify the issues complained of. Where appropriate, action will be taken to ensure safety at work.

Information and advice

The Health and Safety Team are 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, 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.

Premises enforced by The Health and Safety Executive

The Health and Safety Executive enforce legal standards in a wide range of premises. Generally speaking they are responsible for: factories, breweries, construction, Local Authorities, hospitals, mines, fairgrounds, doctors and educational establishments.

Charter mark We hold the charter mark. This is awarded to public services that provide an excellent standard of service to their customers.