Health and safety
Health and safety at work
Our remit includes offices:
- shops
- retail and wholesale distribution centres
- leisure
- cultural
- hotels
- catering premises.
Other types of work activity or premises are regulated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
The council's aim for the regulation of health and safety at work is to protect the health, safety and welfare of people at work. We also seek to safeguard others, such as members of the public, who may be exposed to risks from the way work is carried out.
Health and safety advice for businesses
Any business requiring advice on health and safety at work, including new businesses, is advised to consult the:
This site contains information suitable for all business types, from the very simple and low risk, through to comprehensive guidance for the highest risk sectors. This includes leaflets and publications for free download, as well as templates and examples of documents such as risk assessments and health and safety policies.
Inspections and enforcement
We may visit work premises to investigate accidents, complaints about health and safety conditions or to carry out planned inspections of some high risk activities. We might visit by appointment or visits may be unannounced, as officers have a right of entry to work premises at any reasonable time.
We can also visit at the request of the business, to provide advice and information on specific issues.
Our visits and investigations will usually focus on the main risks presented by the business. They will include a physical inspection of the site or activity, discussion with managers and staff, and examination of relevant documentation.
The outcomes of the visit or investigations will be clearly notified in writing. They will specify any legal requirements and make recommendations for good practice. The timescale for compliance will also be clearly stated.
If formal enforcement is necessary, for example the service of an Improvement Notice, the matter will be explained in full, including the timescale for compliance and appeal process.
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Our Enforcement Policy (PDF (PDF document [169.4Kb])) states our principles and standards regarding enforcement.