Background to Health & Safety Legislation
		In 1974 the government introduced the Statute Law “The Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974” (HSAWA); this law ensures the enforcement of employers to take reasonable care for the Health, Safety and Welfare of his employees. A breach of this law is a criminal offence and a breach can lead to fines and even a prison sentence. This law is supported by a series of regulations, these regulations are written to define the Act; ensuring specific areas of employment are covered. These regulations include: “The Management of Health & Safety at Work reg. 1999”, “The Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) reg. 1992” & “The Provision and Use of Work Equipment reg. 1998” There are also many other regulations to be considered, any breaches of these regulations is deemed a criminal offence under “The Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.”
		In order to comply with this law and the regulations, you must ensure as far as reasonably practicable that you consult or employ a competent person. In smaller working environments it is not always feasible to appoint a dedicated competent Health & Safety Manager. With this in mind H & Safety has been set up to give a hands-on approach to manage your Health & Safety requirements and comply with the legislation allowing you to get on with your real work.