A new survey published by the Health and Safety Executive has revealed that many businesses deploy a range of unnecessary safety measures in a bid to stay compliant.
Among the findings of the H&S ABC report, one business implemented written guidelines for ascending the stairs with another completing a risk assessment by way of a tape measure.
HSE’s small business lead, Kate Haire, said the survey demonstrated how safety myths could cause unnecessary confusion at great time and expense to small businesses.
“Health and safety is all about taking reasonable steps to manage serious risks of ill-health and injury in the workplace,” she said. “If something sounds completely unreasonable, more often than not it will be totally unnecessary too.”
The survey showed that 20% believed they didn’t have the tools to manage safety in-house with 11% under the impression that electrical appliances such as kettles and toasters must be tested yearly by a qualified electrician.
Ms Haire said the HSE remained committed to providing small and medium sized businesses with free online tools and guidance to help them get their risk management right.
“What’s great about H&S ABC is that it contains all the information smaller businesses need to know to manage health and safety sensibly and comply with the law,” she stated. “It highlights the real risks in a workplace and how to put reasonable precautions in place.”
“We have worked with some key industry partners who have regular contact with SMEs to make them aware of the benefits of using the free online tools and guidance HSE has to offer. We hope employers will realise health and safety does not have to be complicated or cost lots of money.”
Almost one-third of small businesses questioned said they were aware some actions had to be taken but remained unclear as to where they should start.
Free guidance available at the HSE’s website
