e3.3 - The enforcement of health and safety law

Question 1

Authorities empowered to enforce health and safety (HASWA section 18)

Answer 1

HSE (inspector):
Higher risk premises and activities

Local Authorities (Environmental health officer):
Lower risk premises and activities

Question 2

Division of responsibilities between enforcing authorities

Answer 2

HSE:
Mining and quarrying
Fairgrounds
Construction work
Agricultural activities
Use of ionising radiation

Local Authority:
Catering services
Shops
Provision of accomodation
Child care facilities
Laundrettes

Question 3

Main duties of HSE

Answer 3

Enforcement of HASWA
Promoting the objectives of the act
Encouraging research and training
Providing an info and advisory service
Making proposals to government for regulations
Carrying out investigations as necessary

Question 4

Section 20

Answer 4

POWERS OF ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

enter premises at any reasonable time
Take a police officer with him if required
Take with him any other person or equipment
Carry out examinations/investigation
Direct that premises are left undisturbed
Take measurements/photos/samples
Take samples of articles - Substances for examination/evidence
Dismantle or subject to test any article - substance which is dangerous
Require questions to be answered - and to sign a declaration of truth
Require production - copies of necessary documents
Require any facilities to carry out their investigation
Any other power necessary to fulfill their duties