Inspections

Routine Inspections

Are carried out on a priority based system. The frequency of our 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/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 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 business 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, it may also make recommendation for improvements.
For more serious offences an Improvement notice can be served allowing a minimum 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.
See the Department's Enforcement Policy.

If businesses have been prosecuted for Health and Safety breaches, the details will be available on the Health and Safety Executive website - go to the Health and Safety Executive's Public Register of Convictions on their website, available to the right of this page.

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