Workplace safety in the United Kingdom: employer guide

Short answer

In the United Kingdom, use the HSE or a local authority in Great Britain, depending on the workplace and Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (Great Britain) to plan workplace safety and instruction.

Who oversees safety at work?

Start with the tasks and hazards at your site. This page points to the regulator and legal framework; check their current guidance before making a workplace decision. The relevant public body is HSE or a local authority in Great Britain, depending on the workplace. Also see HSENI employer guidance for Northern Ireland.

What should an employer do first?

Employers manage work risks and give workers necessary information, instruction, training and supervision. Northern Ireland employers should consult HSENI separately. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (Great Britain) For each task, write down the hazard, the control and the instruction workers need. Begin with the nation where work takes place; the Great Britain framework cannot simply be assumed for Northern Ireland.

Five training topics to check

Choose from these topics using the job's risks; this is not a universal course list. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (Great Britain)

1. Manual handling — demonstrate the safe method for this task. 2. Work at height — show the fall-prevention method for this task. 3. Hazardous substances — check labels and local exposure controls. 4. Workplace transport — check equipment, exclusion zones and supervision. 5. Emergency response — agree what to do and whom to contact.

Useful official links

• HSE or a local authority in Great Britain, depending on the workplace
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (Great Britain)
• HSENI employer guidance for Northern Ireland

For readers looking for a related course: Safety Courses online manual handling course. Match any course to the employer’s own risk assessment and workplace instruction.