HSE Publishes Revised Workplace Regulations ACOP

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published a revised and updated Approved Code of Practice (ACOP), to make it easier for employers, building owners, landlords and managing agents to comply with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) regulations.

The HSE decided to revise, consolidate or withdraw a number of ACOPs, following the recommendation of the Löfstedt report, ‘Reclaiming health and safety for all’. Workplace ACOP (L24) was one of several identified for review and revision.

A wide range of basic health, safety and welfare issues are covered by The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and they apply to most workplaces, except those involving work on construction sites, those who work in or on a ship and those who work below ground at a mine. Changes to the ACOP do not alter the dutyholders’ legal responsibilities.

HSE spokesman, Chris Rowe, said: “Across HSE we are working hard to ensure that employers have access to good quality advice which makes clear what they need to do to protect workers.

“The revised ACOP… will help employers understand the regulatory requirements on key issues such as temperature, cleanliness, workstations and seating, toilets and washing facilities.”

Changes to the edition published in 1992 include:

• Removing out-of-date duties and requirements that are superseded by new regulations
• Simplifying the language to clarify what dutyholders must do to comply with the Workplace Regulations
• Updating the publication to include the provisions of the Miscellaneous Amendment Regulations 2002
• Improving guidance, referring to the most up-to-date and relevant advice.

If you need help understanding and implementing this new guidance, or require assistance in setting up health & safety management procedures contact us.