Workplace Health and Safety

The Public Protection Food Health and Safety Team enforce workplace health and safety in a range of premises throughout the district e.g. offices, shops, warehouses, places used for leisure activities, residential care homes and other non-industrial premises. This helps ensures employers are maintaining safe and healthy working conditions for all employees, the self-employed and members of the public visiting these premises.

The Health and Safety Executive deal with factories and other industrial operations. Visit the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website (opens new window).

Health and Safety enforcement in the UK is split between two government bodies, The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Local Authorities such as South Holland District Council. 

Responsibility for Health and Safety enforcement guidance (PDF) [95KB] (opens new window)

High Risk Premise inspections are carried out on a routine basis without prior notification. 

During an inspection, Officers will need to be satisfied that any hazards to people's health, safety and welfare, which arise out of or in connection with work have been identified and the associated risks adequately controlled. 

Where work practices or conditions fall short of what is regarded as satisfactory every attempt will be made to resolve the situation by informal means, but if this is not possible, or if the danger posed gives rise to a risk of serious personal injury, then officers will resort to formal action. This could involve either the service of a legal notice, prosecution, or in situations where serious personal injury could arise, a prohibition notice requiring immediate action.

Health and Safety Workplace Complaints

Complaints about working conditions are always investigated sensitively and the complainant's confidentiality is assured. Such matters are usually resolved by giving advice to the employer, but as with accident investigation, if formal action is needed then this will be taken.  If you have a workplace health and safety complaint for a business within the district of South Holland please email foodhs@sholland.gov.uk.

Health and Safety Accident Investigations

The investigation of dangerous occurrences and accidents at work also forms an important part of the Teams work. The outcome of these enquiries usually involves the giving of advice to the employer.   We will decide upon the most appropriate course of action in line with our Enforcement policy.

In the event that someone who has been injured as a result of a work related accident, wishes to pursue a compensation claim their legal advisor may wish to obtain a factual statement from us for a fee. This details the investigation into the accident and the findings.

Health and Safety Information and Advice

The Council is committed to working together with businesses and all their employees to achieve high standards and prevent problems. We are always willing to give advice on legislation, or practical problems, so if you are considering setting up a business, or wish to discuss anything in relation to your existing premises, please feel free to contact us via email foodhs@sholland.gov.uk.