7 Tips for implementing effective Health & Safety

 

1. So you’ve started a business  - There are a number of important issues to address when starting a business, these include registering your business with the relevant authority and taking adequate insurance out covering both your employees and the work activities carried out.  If your business is based from home it would be recommended to take advice from your local authority.
2. What applies to you - All of it!  It does not matter how many employees you may or may not have, it is a legal requirement to comply with all Health & Safety statutes, the extent of recording procedures on how compliance is achieved will depend on the type of business activities that are carried out.
3. Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 - This is the main piece of legislation that all business owners should be aware of; it details the responsibilities of both the employer and employee, for practical guidance on how the legislation effects you visit www.hse.gov.uk for a variety of free leaflets and publications.
4. Risk Assessments & Policies - All businesses should have a Health & Safety Policy and risk assessments in place, it is a legal requirement that the above are recorded formally if you employ 5 or more employees.  It is also common for other businesses to show preference to those who can demonstrate formal health and safety procedures are in place. 
5. Training - You have the procedures in place now all you have to do is to ensure that your employees or clients are aware of them.  To ensure that your employees are aware of Health & Safety it is a good idea to include some training within the induction period and then at suitable regular periods thereafter.  Clear signage throughout your premises ensures legal compliance and that a positive message is sent to all potential customers.
6. Documentation - You may be acting in a positive manner towards Health & Safety but it is important to keep a number of records in case of inspection where it is very likely documents such as policies, risk assessments and training records among others will be requested to determine legal compliance.
7. Monitoring - It is important to ensure that constant monitoring takes place and that a reporting procedure is in place so that hazards or near misses are reported so that accident potential is greatly reduced and a positive health and safety culture is promoted.