Last edited 01 Jun 2016

Health and safety at work etc act 1974

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The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974:

Applies to all 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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