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Introduction to this document

Safety briefing - Health and Safety at Work Act

This briefing provides a short introduction to the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA).

What’s covered?

The aim of this Safety Briefing - Health and Safety at Work Act is to give some background to the most important health and safety legislation in England, Wales and Scotland.

Why the Act is important

HSWA places strict duties on individuals and organisations to ensure safety and health at work. Non-compliance, whether inadvertent or deliberate, may lead to accidents and ill health, a criminal record, fines, imprisonment and the disqualification of directors.

A summary

The briefing follows this up with a “Summary of duties under the Act” including what’s required of employers and individuals.

Key points

Attendees must take note of the following key points:

  • Individuals and organisations all have duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
  • Everyone has a duty to take reasonable care of themselves and others whilst at work.
  • Employers are given duties under the Act to provide a safe place of work and safe methods of working.
  • Manufacturers and others in the supply chain have a duty to ensure that equipment, materials and substances for use at work are safe.
  • Those found guilty of breaching the Act may face fines or imprisonment.”