New HSE powers significant, expert says

Categories: General Health and Safety |


New HSE powers significant, expert says Legal criteria introduced under the Health and Safety Offences Act 2008 is very significant for businesses, according to a law expert.

Bruce Howorth, health and safety specialist at Hay & Kilner Solicitors, explained to The Journal that the new law - which was effective from January 16th this year - contains a number of stricter punishments, such as higher fines and the potential for imprisonment.

"It's vital that anyone with health and safety responsibilities fully understands the changes," he said.

This comes after Andrew Couch, a consultant at insurance firm Norwich Union, reminded companies that the cost of investing in simple safety precautions is much smaller than the financial implications of a work-related accident.

Companies which invest in workwear, hearing protection and other protective equipment as part of a sensible risk management strategy are unlikely to have anything to fear by the new law, the HSE has indicated.

Judith Hackett, executive chairman at the regulator, said the tougher penalties are designed to clamp down on those who cut corners on health and safety investment to gain a commercial advantage.ADNFCR-1200-ID-19071075-ADNFCR

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