Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I'm only a small business, why would I need your services?
A: Even if you are a sole trader, you still have the same health and safety law to adhere to, and there are likely to be regulations specific to your business too. Starting as you mean to go on can make it easier to grow, in the right way, safely. If you have employees, there are additional considerations, and if you have a premises, there's more for that too.
It is a legal requirement for every business to have health and safety competency. This means you must be able to show that your business has someone with the knowledge, training, skills and experience to know what to do to comply with the law. This can be someone inside the business, or if you don't have anyone, you should seek external support, such as us.
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Q: I've heard I don't need risk assessments or a H&S policy because I don't have 5 staff, is this correct?
A: No, it is false. The law (Management Regulations 1999) states that if you have fewer than 5 employees, then you do not have to write it down. However, there is still a requirement to demonstrate you have suitably identified hazards associated with your business, how you control risk and your statement of policy . You could do this verbally, but it's actually much easier to write it down anyway, and it can help in any situation whereby you need to show what you have in place. It is also often stipulated by Clients, working for other companies & insurance companies.
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Q: We have our own internal health and safety person, do we still need your services?
A: Those that work in health and safety will know that we often utilise internal and external services. There are positives and drawbacks to both, so using the two different approaches together shows commitment to health and safety and provides independent support or review of internal practices. It can also help for when work fluctuations mean you need additional help occasionally. Those inside an organisation sometimes stop 'seeing' issues in the same way and a fresh pair of independent eyes can bring a new perspective. Having external support can also help to reinforce the importance of your health and safety messages.
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Q: Aren't Consultancy Services expensive though?
A: There's an age old saying "if you think health and safety is expensive, you should try having an accident". Whilst the sentiment is true, we don't advocate finding out using this approach! Consultancy can actually be a very cost effective solution. Many companies don't require someone full time, and outsourcing can give the flexibility to have just the cover you need, and to increase or reduce it as you need.
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Q: I don't know what I need, or where to start, what is the best way to find out?!
A: Agh! We understand, and this is an issue faced by many, especially new businesses. It can often feel daunting starting to work for yourself, or take on staff, a building, or maybe you have a business that is many years old, but you feel uncertain you are doing what is needed. There are a few ways to tackle this. You can give us call, and we will ask a few questions and then point you in the right direction, or you can head over to 'help' page.
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If you have any other questions, please contact us.