Health and safety legislation
Section 1: Introduction to Health and Safety Legislations
- Health and Safety at Work Act (1974): Known formally as HASAWA, this is the primary legislation governing workplace health and safety in the UK. It outlines the duties of employers and employees concerning safety.
- The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999): These regulations require employers to carry out risk assessments, make arrangements to implement necessary measures, and designate a competent person for health and safety.
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (2002): Known as COSHH, these regulations require employers to control substances that can harm workers' health.
Section 2: Sector-Specific Health and Safety Legislation
- The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (1998): Also known as PUWER, these regulations put duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over work equipment.
- The Manual Handling Operations Regulations (1992): This legislation is designed to protect workers from harm caused by lifting or carrying heavy objects.
- The Work at Height Regulations (2005): These rules aim to prevent death and injury caused by a fall from height.
- The Noise at Work Regulations (2005): These regulations make it an employer's duty to prevent or reduce risks to health and safety from exposure to noise at work.
Section 3: Land-Based Specific Health and Safety Legislation
- The Agriculture (Safety, Health and Welfare Provisions) Act (1974): This act focuses on the use and operation of agricultural plant and machinery. Further to this, it covers the safe handling and transport of animals.
- Pesticides Act (1998): This legislation focuses on the control of pesticides and covers their storage, supply, and use.
Section 4: The Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Non-compliance can lead to workplace accidents, the severity of which can range from minor injuries to fatalities.
- Employers can face financial penalties, including heavy fines or even imprisonment.
- Other consequences include loss of reputation and damage to relationships with clients, suppliers, and the local community.