Inspections

All premises which fall under the health and safety enforcement of the council, can be subject to inspection.

The frequency of inspection of premises depends on the type of activity at the premises and the associated hazards. The health and safety procedures at the premises and the safe systems of work that are in place, are also taken into account. Officers have the right to enter any workplace without any notice although notice is sometimes given where appropriate.

On a routine inspection, an officer will look at a range of health and safety subjects such as the Health and Safety Commission's priority topics:

• falls from height
• workplace transport
• slips and trips
• musculoskeletal disorders
• stress.

As well as other work activities and potential hazards:

• use and storage of equipment
• safety and maintenance of equipment
• sanitary and washing facilities
• guarding of machinery
• exposure to noise
• cleanliness
• workplace conditions
• first aid
• asbestos.

During inspections we check various aspects of business including if employers have carried out risk assessments, have safe systems of work and that staff have appropriate training. We also check that employers with five or more employees have documented the findings of their risk assessment and have a written company safety policy that states their control measures.

Risk rating

Many low risk activities, like small offices, may only receive occasional visits or self assessment questionnaires. Premises that are inspected and business activities assessed are risk rated and assigned a score. This score determines the frequency of the next inspection.

After an inspection an officer will provide a report which records any significant findings and advice.