A health and safety policy is a written document that sets out how your organisation manages health and safety. Under Section 2(3) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers with 5 or more employees are legally required to have a written policy.
Three Parts of the Policy
- Statement of general policy — a signed commitment from a senior person (usually the MD or CEO) setting out the organisation's commitment to health and safety
- Organisation for health and safety — who does what: names, roles, and responsibilities at every level of the organisation
- Arrangements — the practical measures in place: risk assessments, training procedures, emergency arrangements, monitoring, and review processes
What Should Be Covered?
- How risks will be assessed and controlled
- Emergency and fire procedures
- First-aid arrangements
- Accident reporting procedures (including RIDDOR)
- Consultation with employees
- Training arrangements
- Monitoring and review procedures
- Specific hazards relevant to your workplace (e.g., manual handling, working at height, substances)
Keeping It Up to Date
The policy is a living document — it must be reviewed and updated whenever there are significant changes to your business, work activities, or legislation. The HSE recommends reviewing it at least annually.
Fewer Than 5 Employees?
Even if you're not legally required to have a written policy, you still have all the same health and safety duties. Having a written policy is best practice regardless of size, and many clients, contractors, and insurers will require one.
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