All employers are under a duty to comply with health and safety laws, to ensure the safety of their staff, visitors and contractors on site. The following factors need to be taken into consideration.
Safe working environment
- Building and structural safety
- General safety of floor/pedestrian routes
- Fire Safety
- Lighting
- Ventilation
- Welfare facilities
- Accident book
- First Aid
Ensure your system of work is safe
- Staff are trained to do their job safely
- Staff are aware of the risks, with control measures
- Equipment is suitable for intended purposes
- Repair/maintenance schedule and records
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Do staff have/have you provided all appropriate PPE?
- Have they been instructed and trained on the correct and safe use/handling/storage?
- Do you keep records for issue of PPE?
Fire Safety
- Ensure you have a Fire Risk Assessment for your premises
- Ensure your fire exit doors are in working order and unobstructed
- All appropriate safety sings are in place
- Appropriate fire extinguishers/inspected
- Evacuation plans and fire assembly points – consider those with special needs
Chemicals
- These are clearly labelled and stored safely
- There is a COSHH risk assessment/communicated to relevant staff
- Staff instructed/trained on the safe use/handling/storage
Electricity
- Electrical compliance checks
- PAT tests for portable electrical appliances
Covid
- Risk assessment in place/communicated to staff
- Maintaining social distancing
- Provision of hand sanitisers and washing facilities
- Ventilation
Quest is here to provide you with the initial telephone advice that is practical and commercially sound, and offer expert consultancy service for all your health and safety needs.
The article is for general information purposes only and should you require any further assistance on the matter please do not hesitate to call our advice-line team on 01455 852028.
