Latest Newsletter From the Construction Team
HSE - the Price of Ignorance
Contractors always have in the back of their minds that, in the event of a serious incident, the HSE will probably cionduct an in depth investigation. Also, many will be familiar with the scnario of an HSE inspector who is in the area to investigate an incident for another company and decides to pay one of your sites an unannounced visit whilst he is in the locality.
But what about the situation where the inspector, with little warning, enters your premises to inspect your health and safety documentation and review your systems? This does happen, and if you are found not to be compliant you could be summoned to attend an interview under caution. A breach of regulations can result in a court apperance, a substantial fine, and company directors could be prosecuted.
There are lawyers who specialise in advice in how to handle this situation. They can deal with the enforcing authorities, protect your interests during the interviews, and of course represent you in the event of proseution.
However, risk management - prevention rather than cure - is by far the preferable route. Such specialist lawyers can carry out a review of your systems and proceures and advise on the risk assessment processes, systems and documentation for investigating accidents, staff training, communication with staff and emergency procedures and disaster planning. All advice will be in accordance with the latest legislation.
Recommendation
Use external specialists to review your health and safety procedures every few years, making use of their free advice services, and attend any health and safety briefings they hold, to enable you to be fully kept up to date with the latest legislation.
Source: Vizards Wyeth, Solicitors
Call your local branch, or the Large Business Team on: Tel: 020 8249 4542
Fax: 0870 400 9400
