FAQs

Who is responsible for health and safety at work?

The law says that it is “an employer’s duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees”. Therefore, failure to take adequate precautions not only puts your staff in harm’s way, but it could also have negative implications for your business in the future.

I have fewer than 5 employees so do I need a health and safety system?

While the legal requirement for a formal, written health and safety system only applies once there are five or more people employed in your business it is good practice to have one.  A written system proves that you have considered the hazards in your workplace and taken appropriate steps to reduce the risks they present.

There may also be important regulations you need to comply with but which you are unaware of. Cerdin Services can help you ensure you are fully aware and compliant.

I'm self employed and work in my own premises so it can't apply to me?

You may not have employees but you do have a duty of care towards anyone who comes into your place of work. That includes your clients, visitors, volunteers, work experience placements, and any contractors you employ. It can also depend on the type of work you do and if that work could present a particular hazard to anybody else.

You may also find that your insurers have small print which requires you to have certain health, safety and management systems in place. Failing to meet these requirements may make your insurance invalid when you need it most.

What is a duty of care?

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) defines duty of care as the legal and moral obligation for employers and individuals to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm, injury, or ill-health to employees, volunteers, customers, and the public, ensuring their safety and well-being, particularly in the workplace.

What is PAT testing all about?

Anyone who has anybody other than themselves in a workspace has a duty of care to them. This includes ensuring that any electrical equipment does not present any form of risk or hazard. 

While there is no single piece of legislation which lays out the specifics, these are the key ones you need to comply with.

• Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: All electrical systems and equipment used in a workplace must be maintained in a safe condition.
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: Places a general duty on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees and visitors. This includes contractors, clients and other persons coming into your business area.
• Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER): Any equipment provided for work purposes must be safe, suitable, and regularly inspected. This applies if you have staff, volunteers, or anyone else who may use your equipment.

There is no specific period of time for inspection, but an annual PAT test is considered good practice. High risk workplaces or equipment which is heavily used may need more regular testing.

We can provide PAT testing with a full safety report and even a nice certificate to display, demonstrating your commitment to safety.

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is a process which identifies things which have the potential to cause harm or damage, and then explains what steps will be taken to reduce the risks. This is the practical aspect of the duty of care.

We all risk assess every day. When you prepare to cross a road you look around you, consider what dangers there are, and then work out the best way to cross.  That is risk assessment.

Unfortunately workplace risks are not always that obvious if you don't know what to look for.  This is where we can help you. We can do the hard work for you and provide you with comprehensive risk assessments, specifically tailored for your business. Ongoing support and renewal packages are also available.