Health and safety - the role of Environmental Services

Health and safety law applies to all workplaces where people are employed. If you are self‑employed, it also applies if your work could affect other people.

You are responsible for keeping your staff and others safe at work. This includes customers, visitors, contractors and members of the public.

The most important steps you must take are set out below.

Your main legal duties

You must:

• have a written health and safety policy if you employ five or more people
• carry out a risk assessment and record the main findings if you employ five or more people
• give employees health and safety training at no cost to them
• service, maintain and inspect equipment regularly to ensure it is safe
• arrange statutory inspections for some equipment, such as lifting equipment and pressure systems
• check for and manage asbestos safely if it is present in your workplace
• assess and manage the risk of Legionella in water systems
• keep gas and electrical systems safe and in good repair and condition
• only use Gas Safe registered engineers for gas work
• provide suitable welfare facilities for staff
• supply personal protective equipment where it is needed, free of charge
• consult employees about health and safety matters
• put suitable first aid arrangements in place

Getting more help

This is not a full list of legal duties. The exact requirements depend on the type of work you do and the risks involved.

You can find detailed guidance on carrying out risk assessments, managing hazards and meeting legal duties on the Health and Safety Executive website.

If you need advice or are unsure what applies to your business, contact Environmental Services.