Health and safety at work etc act 1974

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It sets out the general duties which:

• employers have towards employees and members of the public
• employees have to themselves and to each other
• certain self-employed have towards themselves and others

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974:

• Applies to all workplaces including construction sites.
• Sets out general duties of employers, self-employed persons, persons in control of premises, employees, manufacturers and suppliers to safeguard the health and safety of employees and public who may be affected by their work.
• Failure to comply with the requirements of the Act is a criminal offence which can result in a prison sentence of up to 2 years prison and an unlimited fine.
• All health and safety regulations fall under this Act.
• Section 2 gives employers a duty to ensure the health and safety of employees as far as is reasonably practicable.
• Section 3 imposes a duty to ensure people who are not employees are not exposed to health and safety risks.
• Section 4 imposes a duty to ensure premises are safe and from risks to health.
• Sections 7 and 8 give employees a duty to take reasonable care.
• Section 37 provides that directors and managers can be liable personally for neglect or consent that leads to an offence under the Act.

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