Health and Safety Inspections
When will visits be made?
Inspectors have the right to enter work premises at any reasonable time. Where he/she has reason to believe that danger exists entry may be gained at any time.
Inspectors do not normally make appointments and will usually visit without advance notice. A programme of inspection is operated based on a nationally agreed priority rating scheme. Huntingdonshire District Council seeks to inspect all premises on its register at least once in every 6 years. Those premises where the greatest level of risk exists should expect to receive a visit at 18 month intervals.
Inspectors Powers
The law gives a wide range of powers to inspectors. They may:-
- Enter premises
- Carry out investigations and examinations
- Take measurements, photographs and samples
- Take possession of articles and give a receipt
- Require information and take statements from people
- Inspect and copy documents
- Issue Improvement Notices
- Issue Prohibition Notices
For a summary of the key points of the Council's Health and Safety Enforcement Policy go to the leaflet on the right. For the policy in full go to the Health and Safety Enforcement Policy Statement also on the right of this page.
What should I expect from an Inspector?
Inspectors will:-
- Behave in a courteous manner
- Show their authorisation
- Discuss matters observed which need attention
- Distinguish between recommendations and legal requirements
- Inform you before he leaves the premises of any action which he intends to take
- Request that you sign the inspection form and provide you with a copy
- Where appropriate discuss relevant points with your employee's safety representatives
- Confirm in writing (giving reasons) for remedial actions which are requested
- Provide a statement of the relevant sections of law where there is an apparent breach
- Advise of the appeals procedure available to you
- Advise you of the procedure for making a complaint about the inspector.