Health and safety inspections
Inspections types
Routine inspections are carried out on a priority-based system. The frequency of visits is determined by factors such as the type and size of premises, the work activity and the health and safety history of the business.
Projects or surveys are carried out in workplaces where problems have been highlighted in the past, for example where accidents have involved vehicles.
Following an inspection
After the inspection you will receive a leaflet called "What to expect when a health and safety inspector calls". This details action you can expect from an inspector and action that you can take following a visit.
Advice can be given to businesses on all aspects of occupational health and safety.
Following an inspector's visit, when minor breaches of the law have been identified, an informal letter will be sent detailing any action required to comply with the law. The letter may also contain recommendation for improvements.
For more serious offences, an Improvement Notice can be served allowing a maximum of 21 days for improvement.
Where work activity involves a risk of serious personal injury, a Prohibition Notice will be served stopping that activity until such time as it can be made safe.
Inspectors
Inspectors have the power to visit any commercial premises at any reasonable time in order to carry out their duty. Notice may be given of a visit although it may not always be appropriate. Powers also include taking photographs, taking copies of documents, taking samples, seizing or dismantling articles and interviewing employees.
