Legal Obligation to Manage Risk Remains

Under the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) statutory National Enforcement Code, which came into effect on 29th May, local authorities will continue to target proactive council inspections on poor performers and higher risk activities in specified sectors or when there is intelligence of workplaces putting employees or the public at risk. The focus on high risk sectors, which include construction, will remain – as will fire and food hygiene inspections and inspections at premises where life-threatening legionella bacteria can develop, such as cooling towers.

The new code does not change health & safety rules – there is still a legal requirement to proactively manage health & safety, plus the same legal obligations to carry out and review risk assessments.

If you need help understanding the new code and fulfilling your legal requirements, or for further advice, please contact us.