Ireland · Induction and safety certificates

What happens if staff aren't trained? Penalties and liability in Ireland

Penalties under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 for failing to train and instruct employees.

Checked: 2026-10-06 · Official sources: hsa.ie, irishstatutebook.ie

English

IrelandSafety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, ss. 8, 10 (duties incl. training), ss. 77–78 (offences and penalties)

The employer fails to provide information, instruction, training and supervision required under the 2005 Act.

Summary conviction	fine up to €5,000 and/or up to 12 months' imprisonment
Conviction on indictment	fine up to €3,000,000 and/or up to 2 years' imprisonment

Checked: 2026-10-06 · Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (Irish Statute Book) · Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (HSA)

Enforcement: Health and Safety Authority (HSA); prosecutions in the District Court (summary) or on indictment.

1. Carry out the risk assessment and safety statement.
2. Train each employee before they start, during working time and without loss of pay.
3. Make the training task-specific (e.g. manual handling, work at height).
4. Record training and keep evidence.
5. Refresh training when tasks or risks change.

Can directors be personally liable?

The 2005 Act provides for liability of managers and directors where an offence is committed with their consent, connivance or neglect (s. 80).

Who enforces?

The Health and Safety Authority.

Need relevant training?

See our courses for employees.

Find the course

External course website · safetycoursesonline.ie · Course-link transparency

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