{"version":"2026-11-03.3","scope":"UK health, fire and electrical safety","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","total":20,"nations":["England","Wales","Scotland","Northern Ireland"],"categories":["Fire safety","Electrical safety","Health & safety","Building safety","People at work","Safety at work"],"topics":[{"id":"fire-risk-assessment","title":"Fire safety","category":"Fire safety","question":"Does my business need a fire risk assessment?","summary":"Start with the risks in your building, the people using it and who is responsible for each part.","nations":["England","Wales"],"applies":"Employers and people with control of non-domestic premises, including landlords and managing agents. Shared premises can have more than one responsible person.","duty":"The responsible person must assess fire risks, keep a written record, maintain suitable fire precautions and plan for emergencies. Staff need relevant information and training.","actions":["Identify the responsible person and agree responsibilities for shared areas.","Check that the written assessment reflects the building and everyone who uses it.","Give each action an owner and check that it has been completed."],"trap":"Buying a report does not complete your duties. Act on its findings. A new report every year is not a universal substitute for reviewing risks and changes.","frequency":"Review regularly and when the building, its use or the risks change. Set a suitable review date for your premises.","ask":["What experience do you have with premises like ours?","Will the report include prioritised actions and explain what we can do ourselves?","What information do you need about our building and its occupants?"],"sources":[{"title":"GOV.UK: who is responsible for fire safety","url":"https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities"},{"title":"GOV.UK: fire risk assessments","url":"https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-risk-assessments"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/fire-risk-assessment","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/fire-risk-assessment","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"If you are responsible for fire safety in premises covered by the England and Wales framework, you need a fire risk assessment, a written record and action on its findings.","beforeBooking":["Find the existing assessment and its outstanding actions before paying for a replacement.","Tell the assessor about the building’s use, opening hours, occupants and any sleeping accommodation.","Agree the areas included, access needed, report format and how urgent findings will be raised."],"canDo":"GOV.UK provides premises-specific guides to help with an assessment. Whether you can do the work yourself depends on having the necessary competence for your building and its risks.","getHelp":"Appoint a competent person if you do not have the time or expertise. Complex buildings, sleeping accommodation and people needing assistance deserve particular care when choosing an assessor.","example":"A tenant orders a new report but an unresolved defect in a shared escape route stays unchanged. The useful next step is to agree responsibility and get the defect addressed; a replacement document alone does not resolve it.","records":["Your written assessment and the information used to produce it.","A record of actions, their owners and follow-up.","Relevant training, checks, maintenance and arrangements with other responsible people."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does a business with fewer than five staff need a written fire risk assessment?","answer":"Yes, where the England and Wales fire-safety framework covered here applies, the fire risk assessment must be recorded. Do not confuse this with the separate five-employee threshold for recording a general workplace risk assessment."},{"question":"Is the landlord always responsible?","answer":"No. Employers, owners, landlords, occupiers and others with control can have responsibilities. In shared premises, responsible people need to cooperate."},{"question":"Must I buy a new fire risk assessment every year?","answer":"The assessment needs regular review and must remain suitable. A fixed annual replacement purchase is not the same as an effective review and action process."}],"related":["fire-alarm-and-equipment","evacuation-emergency-lighting","fire-safety-scotland","fire-safety-northern-ireland"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"electrical-safety-pat-testing","shortAnswer":"Not automatically. There is no blanket legal requirement for annual PAT testing in Great Britain.","title":"Electrical safety & PAT","category":"Electrical safety","question":"Is annual PAT testing a legal requirement?","summary":"Electrical equipment must be safe. The right inspection and testing regime depends on how it is used.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Businesses that provide or use electrical equipment at work. Fixed installations and portable appliances need different consideration.","duty":"Maintain electrical equipment so that it does not cause danger. Decide what checks, inspection and testing are appropriate to the equipment and its environment.","actions":["List the equipment, where it is used and how easily it can be damaged.","Arrange user checks, inspection and testing proportionate to those risks.","Take damaged equipment out of use and arrange competent repairs."],"trap":"There is no blanket legal requirement for annual PAT testing. A sticker is not proof that every electrical risk has been addressed.","frequency":"Risk-based. Equipment used outdoors or moved often may need more attention than equipment in a low-risk office.","ask":["How have you chosen the testing intervals?","Which items need testing and which need visual inspection?","What happens if you find unsafe equipment?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: maintaining portable equipment in low-risk environments","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.htm"},{"title":"HSE: portable appliance testing FAQs","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/faq-portable-appliance-testing.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/electrical-safety-pat-testing","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/electrical-safety-pat-testing","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Not automatically. The duty is to keep electrical equipment safe. Annual PAT testing is not a blanket legal requirement in Great Britain.","beforeBooking":["Ask which items need a visual inspection, an electrical test, or both.","Agree the item count, minimum charge, access arrangements and what happens to failed items.","Ask how the proposed interval reflects the equipment and its use. An insurer or contract may impose a separate condition."],"canDo":"A staff member with enough knowledge and training may be able to carry out visual checks in a low-risk workplace. Do not open equipment or attempt an electrical test without the competence to do it safely.","getHelp":"Combined inspection and testing needs suitable equipment and someone who knows how to use it and interpret the results. Damaged equipment needs attention now, not a fresh sticker at the next visit.","example":"An office lamp and a power tool carried between building sites face different use and damage risks. Giving both the same annual appointment is not, by itself, a risk-based maintenance plan.","records":["An equipment list that distinguishes portable equipment from the fixed installation.","The reason for your inspection and testing arrangements.","Findings, repairs and decisions about damaged items. HSE says PAT records and labels are useful management tools, rather than universal legal requirements."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does new equipment need PAT testing?","answer":"HSE says new equipment should be supplied in a safe condition and normally does not need formal inspection or testing. A visual check for damage is sensible."},{"question":"Does PAT testing cover our wiring?","answer":"No. Portable equipment maintenance and assessment of the fixed electrical installation are different jobs. Check the scope of each quote."},{"question":"Does a PAT sticker prove an item is safe?","answer":"It records a check at a point in time. Equipment can be damaged afterwards. Users still need a way to recognise and report defects."}],"related":["fixed-electrical-inspections","work-equipment-puwer"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"health-and-safety-risk-assessment","title":"Health & safety","category":"Health & safety","question":"Where do I start with a workplace risk assessment?","summary":"Understand what could harm people in your business and take practical steps to control it.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Employers. Self-employed people should check whether their work puts others at risk or falls within activities covered by health and safety law.","duty":"Identify hazards, assess the risks and eliminate them or put suitable controls in place. Record significant findings if you employ five or more people.","actions":["Walk through your activities with the people who do the work.","Identify who could be harmed, including visitors and contractors.","Put controls in place and review them when circumstances change."],"trap":"A generic template is a starting point, not an assessment of your workplace. Having fewer than five employees does not remove the duty to assess risks.","frequency":"Review when controls may no longer work, after relevant incidents or when work changes. There is no single review interval for every business.","ask":["Will you assess our actual work activities?","How will our staff be involved?","Will the actions be proportionate to our risks?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: managing risks at work","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/index.htm"},{"title":"HSE: steps needed to manage risk","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/steps-needed-to-manage-risk.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/health-and-safety-risk-assessment","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/health-and-safety-risk-assessment","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Start with the real hazards in your work and how you control them. If you employ five or more people, record the significant findings. Having fewer staff does not remove the need to assess risk.","beforeBooking":["List your actual activities, including cleaning, deliveries and maintenance.","Involve the people who do the work and identify what is already controlled.","Ask for an assessment of your activities, with practical actions, rather than a generic document pack."],"canDo":"You may be able to assess straightforward risks yourself using HSE’s guidance and your knowledge of the work. A template can organise your findings; it cannot inspect the workplace for you.","getHelp":"Use competent help when you cannot assess or control the risks adequately. Bring in relevant expertise for specialist activities, rather than expecting one generic assessment to settle every issue.","example":"A shop’s paperwork covers the sales floor but misses deliveries through a narrow stockroom. Talking to the staff handling deliveries may reveal a more useful action than buying another generic policy.","records":["The hazards and who could be harmed.","Existing controls, further actions and who will complete them.","Review triggers such as new equipment, changed work or an incident."],"faqs":[{"question":"Do I need a consultant to complete every risk assessment?","answer":"No. HSE says you can do it yourself or appoint a competent person to help. The important question is whether the assessment and controls are suitable for the work."},{"question":"Must every risk assessment be reviewed annually?","answer":"Review the controls when they may no longer be effective or work changes, and consider incidents and staff concerns. A calendar date is useful organisation, not a substitute for those triggers."}],"related":["first-aid-at-work","hazardous-substances-coshh","work-equipment-puwer"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"legionella-water-safety","title":"Water safety & legionella","category":"Building safety","question":"Do I need a legionella assessment or a water test?","summary":"Assess your water system first. An assessment and a water sample answer different questions.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Employers and people in control of premises, including landlords, with responsibility for water systems.","duty":"Identify and assess sources of legionella risk, prevent or control exposure, manage the risks and keep the appropriate records.","actions":["Identify your water systems and who is responsible for them.","Assess the system, its use and anyone particularly vulnerable.","Put proportionate controls and monitoring in place."],"trap":"A water sample does not replace an assessment. HSE says domestic landlords do not need a legionella test certificate; sampling is not usually required for domestic hot and cold water systems.","frequency":"Review the assessment regularly and when the system or its use changes. Controls depend on the assessment.","ask":["Why does our system need the proposed monitoring or sampling?","Who will manage the controls after the assessment?","Does the assessment cover periods of low use?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: legionella duties","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/what-you-must-do/index.htm"},{"title":"HSE: landlords and legionella","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/Legionnaires/legionella-landlords-responsibilities.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/legionella-water-safety","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/legionella-water-safety","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"A risk assessment and a water sample are different things. Establish the water-system risks and controls before assuming a testing package is needed.","beforeBooking":["Identify who controls the system and collect existing information.","Explain periods of low use, stored water and any planned system changes.","Ask what a proposed sample will tell you and why it is appropriate to this system."],"canDo":"HSE describes a proportionate approach to low-risk domestic rental systems. Some simple systems can be assessed by someone with an adequate understanding; more complex systems may require specialist help.","getHelp":"Use competent advice if the system, its condition or its users make the risk unclear. Do not assume the low-risk domestic examples apply to a workplace cooling tower or a complex healthcare system.","example":"A landlord is offered a “legionella certificate” for an ordinary rented home. First ask what risk the service assesses and what controls are needed. A certificate or sample is not a substitute for managing the system.","records":["The system assessed, responsibilities and significant findings.","Any control scheme, monitoring and actions relevant to the risk.","Changes in use, occupancy or system condition that may require review."],"faqs":[{"question":"Do domestic landlords need a legionella test certificate?","answer":"HSE says there is no such requirement for domestic landlords. They still need to assess and control legionella risks."},{"question":"Does a clear water sample mean the risk is managed?","answer":"A sample is a result for a point in time. It does not establish whether responsibilities, system management and controls are adequate."}],"related":["health-and-safety-risk-assessment","gas-safety-landlords"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"asbestos-management","title":"Asbestos management","category":"Building safety","question":"Who is responsible for asbestos in our building?","summary":"Check responsibility for maintenance and repair before deciding what survey or management work is needed.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"People with maintenance or repair responsibilities for non-domestic buildings and common parts of multi-occupancy domestic buildings.","duty":"Establish whether asbestos is present or presume it is, assess its condition and risks, maintain a register and manage exposure. Give relevant information to anyone who could disturb it.","actions":["Check the lease and maintenance responsibilities.","Find existing survey records and assess whether they are sufficient for the planned work.","Keep the register and management plan current and share them before work starts."],"trap":"A management survey is not automatically enough for intrusive refurbishment. Do not disturb suspected materials while waiting for advice.","frequency":"HSE says to review the management plan every 12 months, or sooner if necessary, and monitor material condition.","ask":["Is the survey suitable for our planned work?","Are there inaccessible areas or assumptions we need to resolve?","How will you assess and report material condition?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: the duty to manage asbestos","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/duty/"},{"title":"HSE: asbestos FAQs","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/faq.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/asbestos-management","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/asbestos-management","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Responsibility often follows obligations for maintenance and repair. Find out who has the duty to manage, what information exists and whether it covers the work you plan.","beforeBooking":["Check the lease and the parts of the building each party maintains.","Find the register, management plan and earlier survey limitations.","Describe proposed refurbishment or intrusive work before asking for a survey price."],"canDo":"You can assemble records, clarify responsibilities and make sure contractors receive relevant information. Assess your competence before taking on the technical parts of asbestos management.","getHelp":"Use competent specialists for surveying and any work that may disturb asbestos. Do not sample or disturb a suspect material simply to find out what it is.","example":"An existing management survey has areas marked inaccessible. A new fit-out will open those areas. Do not assume the earlier survey establishes that the proposed work is safe.","records":["The asbestos register and survey scope, including inaccessible areas.","A current management plan and condition checks.","Evidence that people who might disturb materials received the relevant information."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does suspected asbestos always have to be removed?","answer":"Do not assume removal is the first step. The duty is to manage the risk, and a competent assessment should determine what is appropriate for the material, condition and planned work."},{"question":"Is the landlord automatically the dutyholder?","answer":"The duty can fall on an owner, landlord or someone with maintenance or repair responsibilities. Check the actual arrangement."}],"related":["work-at-height","health-and-safety-risk-assessment"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"first-aid-at-work","title":"First aid at work","category":"Health & safety","question":"How many first-aiders does my business need?","summary":"Your working patterns and risks matter as much as the number of staff.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Employers, including small businesses. Consider each workplace, working hours, absences and lone workers.","duty":"Provide adequate first-aid equipment, facilities and personnel. Make sure employees know the arrangements.","actions":["Complete a first-aid needs assessment for your workforce and risks.","Provide a stocked kit and someone to take charge of arrangements.","Arrange trained first-aiders where your assessment identifies a need, including absence cover."],"trap":"There is no single staff-to-first-aider ratio that answers every situation. In some small low-risk workplaces an appointed person is sufficient; that is a different role from a trained first-aider.","frequency":"Review when the workforce, work or risks change and maintain suitable cover.","ask":["Which course meets the needs identified in our assessment?","How do we cover shifts, holidays and sickness?","How is the training provider competent?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: what employers need to do about first aid","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/firstaid/what-employers-need-to-do.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/first-aid-at-work","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/first-aid-at-work","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Use a first-aid needs assessment. Staff numbers matter, but so do the hazards, working patterns, locations and absence cover.","beforeBooking":["Assess the needs of the work before selecting a course.","Check shift patterns, holidays, lone working and access to emergency help.","Ask what the training equips someone to do and how you will maintain cover."],"canDo":"An employer can assess their needs using HSE guidance. In some small, low-risk workplaces, a stocked kit and an appointed person may be enough. That role is different from a trained first-aider.","getHelp":"Higher-risk activities or more complex working arrangements may call for trained first-aiders and additional provision. Choose training that fits the assessed need.","example":"The only first-aider works mornings, but the warehouse also runs an evening shift. Counting one trained person does not answer whether the whole workforce has suitable cover.","records":["The needs assessment and the arrangements chosen.","Training details where relevant, and a plan for absence cover.","How staff are told where to get first-aid help."],"faqs":[{"question":"Is there one legal first-aider ratio for all businesses?","answer":"No single staff ratio settles every workplace’s needs. Assess the hazards and working arrangements as well as employee numbers."},{"question":"Does an appointed person need first-aid training?","answer":"HSE says an appointed person does not need specific first-aid training. They take charge of arrangements, such as calling emergency services and looking after equipment; this is not the same role as a trained first-aider."}],"related":["health-and-safety-risk-assessment","riddor-reporting"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"gas-safety-landlords","title":"Landlord gas safety","category":"Building safety","question":"What gas safety checks does a landlord need?","summary":"Establish which appliances and flues you are responsible for and use a suitably registered engineer.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Landlords of relevant rented accommodation with gas appliances or flues within their responsibilities. Commercial premises need a separate assessment.","duty":"Maintain relevant gas fittings and flues, arrange the required annual safety check and provide and retain the required gas safety records.","actions":["Identify appliances and flues covered by your landlord duties.","Use a Gas Safe registered engineer qualified for the relevant work.","Arrange access, keep records and provide them to tenants as required."],"trap":"A service and a landlord gas safety check are different tasks. The annual landlord-check rule should not be applied indiscriminately to every commercial building.","frequency":"The landlord safety check is annual, subject to the permitted timing rules. Follow appropriate maintenance requirements as well.","ask":["Are you registered for this appliance and fuel type?","Does the price include the safety check, servicing or both?","How will defects be recorded and addressed?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: landlords and gas safety","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/domestic/faqlandlord.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/gas-safety-landlords","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/gas-safety-landlords","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"For accommodation covered by the landlord gas-safety duties, arrange the required annual check and appropriate maintenance. A boiler service and a landlord safety check are different jobs.","beforeBooking":["List the appliances and flues within your responsibility.","Check the engineer is registered and qualified for the appliance and fuel.","Agree whether the price covers a safety check, a service, repairs or a combination."],"canDo":"Arrange access, locate previous records and check the agreed scope. These organisational tasks do not make you competent to carry out gas work.","getHelp":"Use a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. Treat access difficulties as something to manage and document; do not assume an unanswered visit completes the duty.","example":"A letting agent orders a boiler service. Before relying on it as the landlord check, establish what was actually inspected and which record will be supplied.","records":["Appliances and flues covered by the arrangements.","Safety-check records and relevant maintenance information.","Access attempts and correspondence where visits cannot be completed."],"faqs":[{"question":"Is a service the same as a gas safety check?","answer":"No. Confirm the scope of each task and which records will be provided."}],"related":["legionella-water-safety","fixed-electrical-inspections"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"display-screen-equipment","title":"Screen work & DSE","category":"People at work","question":"Do home workers need a DSE assessment?","summary":"The working arrangement matters more than whether the desk is in an office.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Workers using display screen equipment daily for continuous periods of an hour or more, including relevant home workers.","duty":"Assess DSE workstations, reduce identified risks and provide the required information, training and arrangements for breaks or changes of activity and eye tests.","actions":["Identify DSE users, including hybrid and home workers.","Assess the whole workstation and how it is used.","Address identified issues and review when working arrangements change."],"trap":"Providing an online questionnaire alone does not resolve the problems it identifies.","frequency":"Assess relevant workstations and review following changes, discomfort or evidence that controls are not effective.","ask":["Who follows up problems identified by the assessment?","Does this cover home and hybrid setups?","How will staff request further help?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: working safely with DSE","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/msd/dse/"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/display-screen-equipment","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/display-screen-equipment","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Where staff are DSE users, assess their workstations and reduce the risks. Office, home and hot-desking arrangements all need consideration.","beforeBooking":["Identify the users and the workstations they actually use.","Collect concerns about discomfort, equipment and work routines.","Ask how assessments lead to changes and support, rather than just completed forms."],"canDo":"A suitable self-assessment process can help gather information. Someone must review the answers and act on problems; handing out a form is not the end of the process.","getHelp":"Get appropriate help when problems cannot be resolved through your assessment process or equipment changes. Do not treat an online form as a medical diagnosis.","example":"A hybrid worker has a suitable office desk but spends home-working days on an unsuitable setup. Assessing only the office misses part of their regular work.","records":["Which workstations and users were assessed.","Issues raised, actions and follow-up.","Relevant training and arrangements for eye-test requests."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does DSE only mean desktop computers?","answer":"No. HSE includes laptops, tablets and smartphones. The work pattern matters when deciding who is a DSE user."},{"question":"Do home workers count?","answer":"Yes. The duties apply to DSE users working at home as well as in the office."}],"related":["health-and-safety-risk-assessment","manual-handling"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"hazardous-substances-coshh","title":"Hazardous substances & COSHH","category":"Safety at work","question":"Is a safety data sheet the same as a COSHH assessment?","summary":"Assess how substances are actually used, including dusts and fumes created by the work.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Work involving substances hazardous to health, from cleaning chemicals to dust, fumes and biological agents.","duty":"Assess and control exposure to substances hazardous to health. A supplier’s safety data sheet provides information for the assessment; it is not the assessment itself.","actions":["Identify substances used or generated by your work.","Assess the actual exposure and who could be affected.","Put effective controls in place and check they work."],"trap":"A folder of safety data sheets is not a set of workplace-specific COSHH assessments.","frequency":"Review when substances, processes, exposure or information about the risk changes.","ask":["Does this assess our actual tasks and exposure?","Can we eliminate or substitute the hazard?","How will controls be checked and maintained?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: safety data sheets","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/chemical-classification/labelling-packaging/safety-data-sheets.htm"},{"title":"HSE: COSHH FAQs","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/faq.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/hazardous-substances-coshh","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/hazardous-substances-coshh","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Assess how people could be exposed to harmful substances in the work. Include substances created by the process, such as dust or fumes, as well as labelled products.","beforeBooking":["List tasks and substances, and collect relevant safety data sheets.","Consider how exposure happens, who is affected and how often.","Ask how proposed controls address the actual task and how their effectiveness will be checked."],"canDo":"You can gather product and process information and involve staff. A safety data sheet informs the assessment; it is not a finished assessment of your workplace.","getHelp":"Use competent advice where you cannot establish or control the exposure adequately. Monitoring, ventilation and health-surveillance questions may need more specific expertise.","example":"A workshop files every purchased product’s safety data sheet but overlooks dust produced by cutting. A substance can matter even when it did not arrive in a labelled container.","records":["The tasks, substances and routes of exposure assessed.","The controls chosen and responsibilities for using and maintaining them.","Further evidence or checks identified as necessary by the assessment."],"faqs":[{"question":"Is a safety data sheet a COSHH assessment?","answer":"No. It provides information about a product. The assessment considers how it is actually used and how people may be exposed."},{"question":"Do dust and fumes count?","answer":"They can. HSE specifically highlights harmful substances produced by processes, including wood dust, silica dust and welding fumes."}],"related":["work-equipment-puwer","health-and-safety-risk-assessment"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"work-equipment-puwer","title":"Work equipment & machinery","category":"Safety at work","question":"What checks does work equipment need?","summary":"Choose equipment suitable for the job and maintain its safety throughout its working life.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Businesses owning, controlling or using work equipment, including hired equipment.","duty":"Provide suitable, safe equipment, appropriate maintenance and inspection, safeguards and adequate information, instruction and training.","actions":["Assess equipment against the job and conditions of use.","Identify inspection and maintenance needs from risk and manufacturer information.","Make sure users are trained and safeguards remain effective."],"trap":"A maintenance visit is not automatically the inspection or thorough examination a particular item needs. Lifting equipment can have additional requirements.","frequency":"Risk-based inspection intervals and relevant installation or exceptional-event checks; not one annual rule for all equipment.","ask":["What does the inspection cover and exclude?","Is a separate thorough examination required?","What evidence will we receive?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: PUWER overview","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/puwer-overview.htm"},{"title":"HSE: inspection of work equipment","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/inspection.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/work-equipment-puwer","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/work-equipment-puwer","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Work equipment must be suitable and used safely, with appropriate maintenance, inspection, information and training. Buying equipment is only the start.","beforeBooking":["Identify the machine or equipment and its actual use.","Provide instructions, maintenance information and any modifications.","Ask what inspection is appropriate and whether other specific requirements apply."],"canDo":"Keep an equipment inventory, arrange maintenance and make sure users can report defects. Simple checks still need appropriate knowledge and instructions.","getHelp":"Use relevant competence for technical inspection, repairs, guarding or modifications. Some equipment also has duties under other regimes, such as lifting or pressure systems.","example":"A workshop buys a second-hand machine. The useful question is whether it is suitable and safe for the proposed task, not merely whether the seller supplied a document.","records":["Equipment identity and intended use.","Inspection and maintenance information relevant to its risks.","Training, defects and action on faults."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does PUWER only concern large machinery?","answer":"No. Work equipment is a broad category that includes tools and other equipment used at work."}],"related":["hazardous-substances-coshh","electrical-safety-pat-testing"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"riddor-reporting","title":"Accident reporting & RIDDOR","category":"Safety at work","question":"Does this workplace accident need reporting?","summary":"Record what happened, then check the specific reporting category and deadline.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Responsible persons, generally employers, relevant self-employed people and those in control of premises.","duty":"Report work-related incidents that meet the RIDDOR criteria. Not every accident is reportable; the incident type and circumstances determine the requirement.","actions":["Deal with immediate safety and medical needs first.","Establish the facts and check the relevant HSE reporting category.","Follow the correct reporting route and deadline and retain appropriate records."],"trap":"An entry in an accident book is not a RIDDOR report. Do not decide reportability from the injury description alone.","frequency":"Event-triggered. Deadlines differ by category; consult the official guidance promptly.","ask":["Who is the responsible person for this report?","Which reporting category applies?","What changes will prevent a recurrence?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: types of reportable incidents","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/types-of-reportable-incidents.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/riddor-reporting","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/riddor-reporting","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Not every accident is reportable under RIDDOR. Establish whether the event is work-related and falls within a reportable category, then follow the applicable reporting requirements.","beforeBooking":["Record the facts and preserve relevant information.","Check the category and deadline in HSE’s guidance.","Agree who in the organisation makes and follows up the report."],"canDo":"Put a clear internal reporting and escalation process in place. Keep an accurate account of what happened; do not turn uncertainty into a definitive classification.","getHelp":"Seek competent advice promptly if you are unsure whether an incident is reportable. Do not let the process of buying advice delay urgent action or a reporting deadline.","example":"An accident-book entry is made after an injury. That internal entry does not, by itself, establish whether a RIDDOR report is required or complete one.","records":["The event, date, people involved and factual information.","The basis for the reporting decision.","Any report reference and resulting preventive action."],"faqs":[{"question":"Is every workplace injury reportable?","answer":"No. HSE identifies specific categories. Work-relatedness and the type of injury or event matter."}],"related":["first-aid-at-work","health-and-safety-risk-assessment"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"fixed-electrical-inspections","title":"Fixed electrical inspections","category":"Electrical safety","question":"Does my business need an EICR?","summary":"Look beyond portable appliances to the condition of the wiring and fixed installation.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"People responsible for the safety of electrical installations at work. Rented homes can have separate statutory inspection requirements.","duty":"Maintain the electrical installation so it remains safe. Competent inspection and testing help establish its condition and identify defects.","actions":["Identify who is responsible for the fixed installation.","Find the latest installation records and inspection reports.","Ask a competent electrical contractor to advise on inspection scope and timing."],"trap":"Do not apply a residential rental inspection interval to every commercial premises. PAT testing does not inspect the whole fixed installation.","frequency":"Set inspection and maintenance arrangements for the installation and its risks. Check any specific premises rules and previous inspection recommendations.","ask":["Which areas and circuits will be inspected?","What limitations will appear in the report?","How will urgent defects be explained and made safe?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: electrical safety FAQs","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/faq.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/fixed-electrical-inspections","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/fixed-electrical-inspections","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Maintain a safe fixed electrical installation. Agree a suitable inspection scope and timing with a competent electrical professional; do not assume the rules for rented homes settle a workplace’s needs.","beforeBooking":["Find the previous report, circuit information and unresolved observations.","Agree which areas and circuits are included and any access or shutdown restrictions.","Separate the inspection price from the cost of remedial work and explain who authorises repairs."],"canDo":"You can locate records, identify the party responsible and prepare access. Do not treat that administrative work as competence to inspect an installation or undertake electrical repairs.","getHelp":"Use a competent electrical professional for inspection, testing and technical interpretation. Ask them to explain any limitations and findings in terms you can act on.","example":"Two quotes use the same label, but one excludes a distribution board and the other includes it. The totals are not yet a like-for-like comparison.","records":["Installation information and the inspection report.","The inspection scope and any agreed limitations.","A record of action on observations and the reasoning for the next review."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does PAT testing replace an EICR?","answer":"No. The fixed installation and portable equipment are different parts of electrical safety. Ask what each service actually covers."},{"question":"Is every business required to have an EICR every five years?","answer":"Do not apply a residential letting rule as a universal commercial requirement. The installation, use, risks, relevant premises rules and previous findings affect the arrangements."}],"related":["electrical-safety-pat-testing","health-and-safety-risk-assessment"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"fire-alarm-and-equipment","title":"Fire alarms & equipment","category":"Fire safety","question":"What fire safety equipment does my business need?","summary":"Start with the fire risk assessment, then specify equipment suited to the building and its use.","nations":["England","Wales"],"applies":"Those responsible for fire safety in non-domestic premises covered by the Fire Safety Order.","duty":"Provide appropriate fire detection, warning and firefighting arrangements. Equipment needs suitable installation, checking and maintenance.","actions":["Check what the fire risk assessment says your building needs.","Establish who checks and maintains the equipment.","Record faults and make sure they are dealt with."],"trap":"A standard equipment package may not suit your premises. Ask how each recommendation relates to the assessment and the risks.","frequency":"Regular checks and appropriate maintenance. Establish the schedule for your equipment and premises with competent advice.","ask":["Which assessment findings support this specification?","What checks can our staff perform?","What does the maintenance agreement include?"],"sources":[{"title":"GOV.UK: fire equipment, drills and training","url":"https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-safety-equipment-drills-and-training"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/fire-alarm-and-equipment","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/fire-alarm-and-equipment","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Choose suitable fire-warning and firefighting arrangements for the premises. Keep equipment working and act on faults; a standard package is not a substitute for understanding the building.","beforeBooking":["Start with the fire risk assessment and any outstanding findings.","List the equipment, locations and records already in place.","Clarify what routine checks, maintenance, call-outs and repairs the agreement includes."],"canDo":"Arrange the routine checks your premises need and ensure faults are reported. Staff carrying out checks need appropriate instruction; this does not replace specialist maintenance.","getHelp":"Use competent help to specify, install and maintain systems. Ask how proposed equipment relates to the fire risks and escape arrangements.","example":"A maintenance quote covers the fire alarm but excludes emergency lighting. The word “fire maintenance” does not tell you whether both systems are included.","records":["System and equipment information.","Checks, maintenance, faults and repairs.","Training and the arrangements for reporting problems."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does buying extinguishers complete fire safety?","answer":"No. Fire precautions, evacuation, maintenance and staff arrangements need to work together."}],"related":["fire-risk-assessment","evacuation-emergency-lighting"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"evacuation-emergency-lighting","title":"Evacuation & emergency lighting","category":"Fire safety","question":"How do I plan for a safe evacuation?","summary":"Think about everyone who could be in the building, including people who need assistance.","nations":["England","Wales"],"applies":"Those responsible for emergency arrangements in non-domestic premises.","duty":"Plan usable escape routes, sufficient exits, clear signs and emergency lighting where needed. Train staff and make arrangements for people with mobility needs.","actions":["Check routes and exits are usable and kept clear.","Plan how everyone will leave safely, including anyone needing help.","Check signs, lighting, training and assembly arrangements."],"trap":"An evacuation plan that only works for able-bodied staff does not address everyone who may use the building.","frequency":"Check arrangements regularly and review when occupancy, layout or assistance needs change.","ask":["Can people use the routes if normal lighting fails?","How have assistance needs been considered?","How will the plan be practised?"],"sources":[{"title":"GOV.UK: fire safety and evacuation plans","url":"https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-safety-and-evacuation-plans"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/evacuation-emergency-lighting","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/evacuation-emergency-lighting","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Plan for everyone to get out safely. Routes, exits, assistance needs, signs, lighting and staff arrangements must fit the premises and its occupants.","beforeBooking":["Explain who uses the building and when.","Identify shared escape routes and people who may need assistance.","Ask how the proposed plan or lighting work fits the fire risk assessment."],"canDo":"Keep escape routes clear, make arrangements known and organise the checks and practice appropriate to your premises.","getHelp":"Use competent advice for design questions or circumstances your team cannot assess. Do not rely on an evacuation plan that ignores people needing assistance.","example":"An escape route works in daylight but passes through an area with no natural light. Ask how the route can be used if the normal lighting fails.","records":["The emergency plan and responsibilities.","Relevant practice, staff information and assistance arrangements.","Checks, maintenance and action on faults."],"faqs":[{"question":"Is an evacuation plan only for employees?","answer":"No. Consider the people who may use the premises, including visitors and those who need assistance."}],"related":["fire-risk-assessment","fire-alarm-and-equipment"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"work-at-height","title":"Work at height","category":"Safety at work","question":"What counts as working at height?","summary":"The key is the risk of injury from a fall, not a universal minimum height.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Work where a person could fall a distance liable to cause injury if precautions were not in place.","duty":"Plan, supervise and carry out work at height using competent people and suitable equipment. Avoid the work at height where reasonably practicable, then prevent falls or minimise their consequences.","actions":["Consider whether the task can be done from the ground.","Choose precautions for the task, surface and conditions.","Use suitable equipment with competent people and appropriate supervision."],"trap":"A short task or a low height does not automatically remove the need to assess the risk.","frequency":"Plan before the task and reassess when conditions change.","ask":["Can this task be done without work at height?","How will collective protection be used?","What is the rescue arrangement if something goes wrong?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: working at height safely","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/introduction.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/work-at-height","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/work-at-height","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Work at height concerns the risk of an injurious fall, not a universal minimum height. Avoid it where practicable; otherwise plan and control the risk.","beforeBooking":["Explain the task, height, duration and access.","Ask whether it can be completed from the ground.","Check the proposed equipment, supervision and emergency arrangements."],"canDo":"Plan the work and check whether safer access or avoiding the task at height is possible. Only use equipment and methods you are competent to use.","getHelp":"Get appropriate competence for difficult access, fragile surfaces and tasks your staff cannot safely plan or carry out.","example":"A short maintenance job is described as “only five minutes”. Its duration matters, but it does not remove the risk of a fall or the need to plan the work.","records":["The task and assessment of the fall risk.","The selected access method and precautions.","Equipment checks, competence and emergency arrangements."],"faqs":[{"question":"Is work below two metres automatically exempt?","answer":"No. The definition concerns a fall that could cause injury, not a blanket two-metre threshold."}],"related":["work-equipment-puwer","asbestos-management"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"manual-handling","title":"Manual handling","category":"People at work","question":"Is there a legal maximum lifting weight?","summary":"Weight is one part of a handling risk. The task, person and working conditions matter too.","nations":["England","Wales","Scotland"],"applies":"Employers whose workers lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move loads, including people or animals.","duty":"Avoid hazardous manual handling where reasonably practicable. Assess unavoidable hazardous handling and reduce the risk of injury.","actions":["Look for ways to avoid the handling task.","Assess unavoidable tasks, including the load and environment.","Change the work or use suitable aids to reduce risk."],"trap":"The law does not set one maximum lifting weight. A handling course alone does not make a poorly designed task safe.","frequency":"Review when tasks, loads, people or working conditions change.","ask":["Can the task be redesigned or mechanised?","What makes this particular movement risky?","How will we know the changes reduce the risk?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSE: manual handling at work","url":"https://www.hse.gov.uk/msd/manual-handling/index.htm"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/manual-handling","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/manual-handling","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"There is no single legal maximum lifting weight. Avoid hazardous handling where practicable, assess unavoidable tasks and reduce the risk.","beforeBooking":["Describe the complete task, not only the load’s weight.","Consider frequency, reach, twisting, space and the people doing it.","Ask how proposed training fits changes to the task or equipment."],"canDo":"Talk to the people doing the work, identify unnecessary handling and consider how the job can be arranged more safely.","getHelp":"Use competent assistance for difficult tasks or when you cannot adequately assess and reduce risk. Training alone may not solve a poorly designed task.","example":"Two loads weigh the same, but one is carried occasionally at waist height and the other is repeatedly lifted from a cramped floor space. Weight alone does not describe the risk.","records":["The tasks assessed and who may be affected.","Changes to the job, equipment or arrangements.","Training and follow-up of problems reported by staff."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does a lifting course remove the need to assess the task?","answer":"No. Consider the task and how to avoid or reduce the hazardous handling, as well as relevant information and training."}],"related":["health-and-safety-risk-assessment","work-equipment-puwer"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"fire-safety-scotland","title":"Fire safety in Scotland","category":"Fire safety","question":"Where should a Scottish business start with fire safety?","summary":"Use the Scottish framework and the guidance for your type of premises.","nations":["Scotland"],"applies":"Those with fire-safety responsibilities for relevant non-domestic premises in Scotland. The framework differs from England and Wales.","duty":"Identify responsibilities under the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Assess fire risks and put suitable measures and evacuation arrangements in place.","actions":["Identify the people with responsibility for the premises.","Use the Scottish guidance for the building’s use, including any sleeping accommodation.","Assess risks, implement measures and plan evacuation for everyone who may need to leave."],"trap":"The England and Wales Fire Safety Order is not the Scottish legal framework. A guide for ordinary non-residential premises may not cover sleeping accommodation.","frequency":"Keep the assessment and precautions appropriate to the premises and review following relevant changes.","ask":["Which Scottish premises guidance applies here?","How are sleeping occupants or people needing assistance considered?","Who will implement and monitor the actions?"],"sources":[{"title":"Scottish Government: non-domestic fire safety","url":"https://www.gov.scot/policies/fire-and-rescue/non-domestic-fire-safety/"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/fire-safety-scotland","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/fire-safety-scotland","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Use Scotland’s fire-safety framework and the guidance for your type of premises. Do not substitute the England and Wales Fire Safety Order.","beforeBooking":["Identify the use of the building, including sleeping accommodation.","Ask which Scottish premises guide the assessor will use.","Clarify responsibility for shared spaces and action on findings."],"canDo":"Collect premises information and existing records, check responsibilities and use the Scottish Government guidance to understand the task.","getHelp":"Use someone competent for the premises and familiar with Scottish requirements, particularly where risks or evacuation arrangements are complex.","example":"A business takes over a small hotel and receives an assessment written for an ordinary office. Sleeping accommodation calls for the appropriate premises-specific guidance.","records":["The assessment and premises information.","Actions, responsibilities and evidence of follow-up.","Relevant fire precautions, checks and staff arrangements."],"faqs":[{"question":"Can I use an England and Wales guide unchanged?","answer":"No. Scottish duties and premises guidance must be considered. Similar terminology does not make the legal frameworks identical."}],"related":["fire-risk-assessment","fire-safety-northern-ireland"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"fire-safety-northern-ireland","title":"Fire safety in Northern Ireland","category":"Fire safety","question":"Where should an NI business start with fire safety?","summary":"Use Northern Ireland’s legislation and the guidance published by NIFRS.","nations":["Northern Ireland"],"applies":"Businesses with responsibilities for relevant premises in Northern Ireland. NIFRS explains the scope and exclusions.","duty":"Identify fire risks and hazards and take appropriate action under the Northern Ireland framework. Provide adequate fire-safety training and maintain suitable premises precautions.","actions":["Check who has responsibility for the premises and the applicable NIFRS guidance.","Assess fire risks and act on the findings.","Provide appropriate staff training, including induction and updates when risks change."],"trap":"Do not assume the England and Wales Fire Safety Order applies in Northern Ireland. Use the local framework and premises guidance.","frequency":"Keep the assessment and precautions appropriate to the premises, its occupants and any relevant changes.","ask":["Which NIFRS premises guidance informs the assessment?","Does the assessor understand our building and its use?","How will actions and training be followed up?"],"sources":[{"title":"NIFRS: business fire safety","url":"https://www.nifrs.org/home/staying-safe/business-fire-safety/"},{"title":"NIFRS: fire risk assessments","url":"https://www.nifrs.org/home/staying-safe/business-fire-safety/fire-risk-assessments/"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/fire-safety-northern-ireland","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/fire-safety-northern-ireland","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Use the Northern Ireland fire-safety framework. Identify the risks, have a suitable assessment and take action; do not rely on an England and Wales legal reference.","beforeBooking":["Find the NIFRS guide matching the premises.","Ask about competence with your building’s use and occupants.","Agree how the assessment, findings and priorities will be explained."],"canDo":"Gather records, confirm responsibilities and arrange staff information and training appropriate to the premises.","getHelp":"Use a suitably competent person for the assessment. Check NIFRS guidance where recording requirements or the scope of duties are unclear.","example":"A supplier uses a report template headed with England and Wales legislation for an NI business. Ask for the correct local framework and premises guidance before relying on it.","records":["Assessment findings and actions.","The reason for decisions and the correct jurisdiction.","Relevant training and maintenance records."],"faqs":[{"question":"Are Northern Ireland’s fire laws the same as England’s?","answer":"No. NIFRS identifies the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 and Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 as the main framework."}],"related":["health-safety-northern-ireland","electrical-safety-northern-ireland"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"health-safety-northern-ireland","title":"Health & safety in Northern Ireland","category":"Health & safety","question":"Where does an NI business start with workplace safety?","summary":"Start with the risks of the work and use HSENI’s local guidance.","nations":["Northern Ireland"],"applies":"Employers and relevant self-employed businesses operating in Northern Ireland.","duty":"Assess what could harm people through your business and take suitable precautions. HSENI states that employers with five or more employees must record their risk assessment results.","actions":["Identify hazards in your work and who could be harmed.","Assess the risks and put suitable precautions in place.","Record the findings where required and keep the assessment useful as work changes."],"trap":"Fewer than five employees does not mean there is no need to assess risk. GB legislation references must not simply be substituted for Northern Ireland’s framework.","frequency":"Review when work or conditions change and when there is reason to doubt whether the assessment remains adequate.","ask":["Which Northern Ireland duties apply to this activity?","Does the assessment reflect how we actually work?","What actions are needed and who will check them?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSENI: risk assessment","url":"https://www.hseni.gov.uk/articles/risk-assessment"},{"title":"HSENI: health and safety made simple","url":"https://www.hseni.gov.uk/health-and-safety-made-simple"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/health-safety-northern-ireland","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/health-safety-northern-ireland","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Assess the risks of your work and put suitable controls in place, using HSENI’s guidance for Northern Ireland.","beforeBooking":["Explain what happens in the workplace, including non-routine work.","Identify the people who may be affected.","Ask for practical controls and actions under the correct local framework."],"canDo":"Use HSENI’s steps to identify hazards and consider straightforward risks. Keep the focus on making work safer, rather than acquiring a generic folder.","getHelp":"Get competent advice where the activity is complex or you cannot adequately assess or control the risk.","example":"An assessment lists hazards but does not say what to do about them. Ask for usable controls, named responsibilities and a way to check progress.","records":["Significant findings where required.","Controls, actions and who is responsible.","Reviews following changes or concerns."],"faqs":[{"question":"Can a GB legislative reference settle an NI duty?","answer":"Do not assume it can. Use Northern Ireland legislation and HSENI guidance for the relevant activity."}],"related":["fire-safety-northern-ireland","electrical-safety-northern-ireland"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}},{"id":"electrical-safety-northern-ireland","title":"Electrical safety in Northern Ireland","category":"Electrical safety","question":"Where should an NI business start with electrical safety?","summary":"Identify the electrical risks of your work and use competent help for technical decisions.","nations":["Northern Ireland"],"applies":"Businesses in Northern Ireland whose activities involve electrical equipment, installations or work near electricity.","duty":"Take suitable precautions to reduce electrical injury risks. Establish the local requirements for your work using HSENI guidance and competent advice.","actions":["Identify equipment, installations and work that could create electrical risks.","Establish who is responsible for controlling those risks.","Use HSENI guidance and competent electrical advice to decide what inspection and maintenance is needed."],"trap":"Do not treat a GB legal reference or a supplier’s standard testing package as a complete explanation of your Northern Ireland duties.","frequency":"Ask for a suitable inspection and maintenance regime for the equipment, its use and the applicable local requirements.","ask":["Which local requirements apply to this work?","What risks does the proposed inspection address?","What checks and maintenance remain our responsibility?"],"sources":[{"title":"HSENI: electrical safety","url":"https://www.hseni.gov.uk/topics/electrical-safety"}],"url":"https://whatcompliance.com/guides/electrical-safety-northern-ireland","apiUrl":"/api/v1/topics/electrical-safety-northern-ireland","sourceCheckedAt":"2026-11-03","editorialStatus":"Source-checked guidance. Specialist editorial sign-off is pending; this is not an assessment of your business.","detail":{"plainAnswer":"Identify the electrical risks and use competent help to establish suitable precautions under Northern Ireland’s requirements.","beforeBooking":["Distinguish the fixed installation from portable equipment.","Find the previous reports and any unresolved defects.","Ask which local requirements and risks the proposed work addresses."],"canDo":"Collect records, identify responsibilities and provide a way for staff to report damage or concerns. Do not carry out technical inspection or repairs beyond your competence.","getHelp":"Use competent electrical advice to agree inspection, testing and maintenance suited to the work and equipment.","example":"An NI business receives a generic annual-testing package. Ask for the reasoning and the local basis for the proposal, rather than relying on its title.","records":["Equipment and installation information.","Inspection findings, limitations and remedial action.","The reasons for the maintenance and review arrangements."],"faqs":[{"question":"Does a generic testing package settle our responsibilities?","answer":"No. Confirm the local requirements and the scope of the equipment or installation before deciding what is needed."}],"related":["health-safety-northern-ireland","fire-safety-northern-ireland"],"checkedAt":"2026-11-03"}}]}