Legal Responsibilities for Workplace Safety

If safety concerns aren't addressed, employers could face legal liabilities.

Legislation puts an obligation on employers to ensure that, so far as reasonably practical, the health, safety, and welfare of employees, and others are kept safe. Neglecting these responsibilities not only puts employees at risk but can also result in legal repercussions, including fines and litigation.

As HSE Inspector Richard Littlefair shares,

“It is not good enough for companies to assume they are doing all they can to control the risk just because there have been no previous incidents.”

Directors' Personal Responsibility for Health and Safety

Ensuring the health and wellbeing of employees or members of the public affected by your activities is an essential part of risk management that must be led by the board.

Health and safety regulations impose obligations on organisations and employers, and directors may be personally held responsible if these obligations aren't met. Each member of the board carries both shared and individual duties regarding health and safety.

Corporate Manslaughter & Corporate Homicide Act

Under this act, if senior management's failings significantly contribute to a serious breach of duty of care that results in death, the organisation can be prosecuted. Directors could face up to a two-year custodial sentence if found guilty.

Therefore, it's imperative for business leaders to drive a culture of safety from the top, setting an example. Decisive actions must be taken to mitigate risks and fulfil legal obligations.