As a small business owner, there are many demands on your time and attention when setting up your company. One important aspect that can often be overlooked is health and safety, as it may not seem immediately relevant to the profitability of the business. Furthermore, many entrepreneurs may not be fully aware of the legal requirements for health and safety in the workplace, leaving them unsure of how to comply with these regulations.
One important consideration for all companies, regardless of their size, is the need for a “Competent Person” for health and safety. This person is typically one of the directors of the company and is responsible for ensuring that the company is meeting its legal obligations in terms of health and safety. This role becomes particularly important for companies that involve higher levels of risk, where the Competent Person may need to undergo specific training to carry out their responsibilities effectively. In cases where the company cannot justify employing a person for this role, a third-party consultant may be contracted to provide advice and guidance.
It is important to note that all companies have a legal responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of both employees and non-employees, including anyone who interacts with the company in the course of its work. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 provides the foundation for health and safety legislation in the UK.
A key element of your company’s health and safety strategy is the development of a Health and Safety Policy. This document outlines the company’s commitment to providing the necessary resources and support for managing health and safety risks and includes a Statement of Intent signed by the responsible director. The policy also includes information about the organizational structure for health and safety within the company and the specific arrangements for managing different aspects of health and safety.
It is important to keep in mind that the level of effort and resources required for managing health and safety risks will vary depending on the nature of your company’s activities. Office-based operations may involve relatively low risks, while production, manufacturing, or construction operations may involve higher levels of risk that require more attention and investment in health and safety measures. Regardless of the level of risk, however, ensuring that your company has a robust health and safety strategy in place is essential for protecting both your employees and your business as a whole.
Within the “Organisation” section of your company’s Health and Safety Policy, it is important to designate individuals who will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of all aspects of health and safety within the workplace. These responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Fire and emergency procedures, such as conducting fire risk assessments, maintaining fire extinguishers and emergency lighting, and developing accident reporting and investigation protocols.
Employee induction and training, to ensure that all staff members are aware of the company’s health and safety policies and procedures.
Risk assessments and safe systems of work, covering all aspects of the work both internally and externally.
Building safety and maintenance, including tasks such as PAT testing, ensuring compliance with regulations regarding electricity, gas, asbestos, and Legionella, and managing facility maintenance.
Vehicle fleet maintenance and safety, to ensure that any company-owned vehicles are kept in good working order and that drivers are aware of safe driving practices.
Equipment safety, including the procurement, commissioning, maintenance, testing, and inspection of all work equipment.
Chemical safety, addressing the procurement, transportation, storage, and use of any chemicals that may pose a threat to employee health.
In some cases, there may be other high-risk aspects of the work that require a specifically designated individual to lead efforts to ensure safety.
In smaller companies or start-ups, one or two individuals may be responsible for overseeing all of the above health and safety concerns. Regardless of the size of your company, it is important to take a proactive approach to health and safety, ensuring that all relevant individuals are aware of their responsibilities and that the necessary resources are in place to protect your employees and your business.
