Business Standard: Health & Safety Executive Guidance

This document provides an internal compliance framework based on Health & Safety Executive

(HSE) guidance for UK businesses. It outlines legal obligations, core principles, and actionable

steps to ensure workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

Purpose

Establish internal standards for compliance with HSE guidance, ensuring legal adherence, risk

management, and protection of employees, contractors, and visitors.

Regulatory Context

HSE enforces the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, requiring employers to safeguard

health, safety, and welfare at work. Non-compliance can result in fines, prosecution, and

reputational damage.

Core Principles

Health & Safety Policy

• Required for businesses with five or more employees

• Must include statement of intent, responsibilities, and arrangements

Risk Assessment

• Identify hazards and assess risks

• Implement control measures and review regularly

• Document findings and communicate to staff

Reporting

• Report injuries and illnesses under RIDDOR

• Maintain accurate incident records

Training & Information

• Provide role-specific health and safety training

• Inform workers of duties and emergency procedures

Worker Consultation

• Engage employees in safety discussions

• Encourage hazard reporting

Workplace Facilities

• Ensure adequate welfare facilities (toilets, drinking water)

• Maintain safe and clean conditions

First Aid

• Provide first aid kits and trained personnel

• Include mental health first aid provision

Competent Person

• Appoint a qualified individual to manage health and safety compliance

Emerging Requirements

• Mandatory mental health first-aid measures

• Building Safety Regulator oversight for high-risk buildings

• Enhanced training records and audits

Compliance Checklist

• Health & Safety Policy in place

• Risk assessments documented and reviewed

• Incident reporting system operational

• Training records maintained

• First aid (physical & mental health) provision confirmed

• Competent person appointed

• Law poster displayed

Quick Links

• HSE Basics for Business: https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/

• Health & Safety at Work Act Overview: https://safetyculture.com/topics/health-and-safety-at-

work-etc-act-1974

• Mental Health First Aid Guidance: https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-

safety/firstaid/index.htm