The Basic Health and Safety Fundamentals Every New Business Should Adopt

When establishing a company, it is natural to get swept away in the excitement of seeing your big ideas come to life.  However, it’s also worth remembering at every stage that a solid bedrock of health and safety compliance is the foundation of any successful modern business.  With that in mind, here’s a guide to what you as an employer will need to consider, from hiring your first employees, to becoming a major player on the international stage.

• Decide what risk your business carries

If you run a company that is considered low risk, you will not need to employ an expert.  If you run a higher risk business, you will.  If you’ve just moved into a new premises, it is a good idea to have a thorough survey of the building done to check for any hazards.

• Create a health and safety policy

Companies with fewer than five employees do not need to have a formal policy in writing, although each employee should be informed of the relevant procedures.  Templates are available online to make this as quick and easy as possible.

• Identify any risks inherent in your day-to-day activities

Consider your business from an outsider’s perspective.  What are the hazards encountered by your employees?  Do any of your workers have specific requirements e.g. disabilities?

• Talk to your employees

This is the best way of identifying the potential risks that they will encounter.  With this information, you can begin to formulate training plans and policies to deal with these.  Remember that this is an ongoing process and policies will need to be revised on a regular basis.

• Provide the necessary training

Training should be clear, carried out during work hours and employees should have the opportunity to provide feedback regarding each session.

• Ensure the appropriate facilities are in place

This refers to basic facilities such as toilets, running water, suitable lighting and heating.

• First Aid

You must have first aid protocols in place, with clear guidelines specifying who is responsible for what in the event of an emergency.

• Display the Health and Safety poster

Although you have the option of providing each employee with a pocket card with the same information, putting a poster up in a public area is easier for everyone

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Fire safety

Employers must carry out a fire safety assessment that follows the same format as the health and safety assessment outlined in this guide.  The risk assessment should include likely areas of ignition, who might be at risk and how this risk might be minimised.  This includes fire alarm installation, having the correct fire-fighting equipment on the premises and keeping fire exits clear at all times.

London Fire Brigade provide detailed information on how to carry out a fire safety evaluation.  It also lays out the various pieces of government legislation with which employers should be familiar.

The purpose of health and safety legislation is to protect both employer and employees from any unforeseen eventualities.  It’s best to follow best practice early on so your business isn’t held back from achieving its potential.  Good luck!