Health and Safety in the workplace

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Information for employers, self-employed or those in charge of work premises regarding health and safety at work, the law and reporting occurrences

Introduction Helping Great Britain work well Complying with the law Reporting a Health and Safety issue Report an issue to Somerset Council

Other information

Introduction

The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 places responsibilities on employers, employees, and the self-employed to have regard for their own health and safety and that of others working for them, and for people visiting their premises. Enforcement of the law is shared between the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Somerset Council.

Health and safety legislation applies to all businesses, however small, to the self-employed and also to employees. If you are a small or medium sized business needing advice on health and safety in the workplace, visit the ABC Guide to Health and Safety for tools and guidance. It will help you to understand what you need to do whilst avoiding unnecessary paperwork and effort.

Helping Great Britain work well

Great Britain’s health and safety record is the envy of much of the world. Central to this is protecting people by managing risk in a proportionate and effective way, supporting innovation and increasing productivity.

The challenge is to improve even further on this impressive record. More information on Managing risks and risk assessment at work.

Complying with the law

The HSE have produced guidance for employers on their website on things you need to do.

Reporting an accident

Certain types of incidents including accidents must be reported. Report an incident and find out more information about the reporting legislation known as RIDDOR on the HSE website

Further information

You can find specific help on the HSE website

Reporting a Health and Safety issue

The HSE enforces the legislation in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, health and education. If you have a concern regarding any of these sectors please contact the HSE.

Somerset Council is the enforcing authority in:

offices (except government offices)
shops
hotels
restaurants
leisure premises
nurseries and playgroups
pubs and clubs
museums (privately owned)
places of worship
hairdressers and beauty therapists
sheltered accommodation and care homes
some premises where animals are cared for

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