Why etc in health and safety at work act

It applies to every work situation and it is what is called an "Enabling Act", as it enables the Secretary of State to make delegated legislation and therefore almost all other health and safety legislation is in the form of regulations made under the Health and Safety at Work Etc Act HSAWA.

This Act also led to the formation of the Health and Safety Executive which enforces health and safety legislation and the Health and Safety Commission which is the policy making body to which the HSE reports. The HSAWA defines general duties for the health and safety of those involved in work and this includes employers, employees, the self employed, suppliers of work equipment and those who control work premises. These general duties are explained below.

It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all his employees. The Act further requires that employers of five or more people prepare and maintain a written statement of their policy with respect to the health and safety of their employees.

Further information about the content of the policy document is contained in the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations. This requires an employer or the self employed to carry out their work in such a way that it does not affect the health and safety of others such as the employees of other employers or members of the general public.

Duties are placed upon such persons to ensure that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the premises are safe and without risks to the health of:. This is aimed at those such as landlords or site owners. They must work with their employer to enable compliance with legislation. Section 8 — No person shall not misuse or interfere with anything provided in the interest of health and safety.

Section 9 — Employers cannot charge employees for things done to achieve legal compliance. HSWA does not just apply to employers, employees also have obligations to meet. According to section 7 of the act , all employees have the duty to take 'reasonable care' of themselves and "any other persons who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work.

If you want to understand more about the fundamentals of health and safety in the workplace, why not look into completing our Office Health and Safety course.

This provides learners with transferable health and safety knowledge that can be applied to any sort of office workplace environment.

If you work in the construction industry and want a formal understanding of the health and safety risks involved, you may want to complete the CITB Health and Safety Awareness HSA course , or the e-course version.

Completing either will allow you to apply for your CSCS green labourer card. You can also contact the ESS team directly by calling or by emailing info essentialsiteskills. What is the Health and Safety at Work etc Act ? What does the Health and Safety etc Act cover? Why do we have a Health and Safety etc Act ? Join a union. What is the Health and Safety at Work Act?

Note: This content is provided as general background information and should not be taken as legal advice or financial advice for your particular situation. Make sure to get individual advice on your case from your union, a source on our free help page or an independent financial advisor before taking any action.

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