THE REFERENCE SHELF
Find a clearer answer.
Practical guides to the requirements, the common misunderstandings and the questions worth asking.
20 guides
Does my business need a fire risk assessment?
Start with the risks in your building, the people using it and who is responsible for each part.
Is annual PAT testing a legal requirement?
Electrical equipment must be safe. The right inspection and testing regime depends on how it is used.
Where do I start with a workplace risk assessment?
Understand what could harm people in your business and take practical steps to control it.
Do I need a legionella assessment or a water test?
Assess your water system first. An assessment and a water sample answer different questions.
Who is responsible for asbestos in our building?
Check responsibility for maintenance and repair before deciding what survey or management work is needed.
How many first-aiders does my business need?
Your working patterns and risks matter as much as the number of staff.
What gas safety checks does a landlord need?
Establish which appliances and flues you are responsible for and use a suitably registered engineer.
Do home workers need a DSE assessment?
The working arrangement matters more than whether the desk is in an office.
Is a safety data sheet the same as a COSHH assessment?
Assess how substances are actually used, including dusts and fumes created by the work.
What checks does work equipment need?
Choose equipment suitable for the job and maintain its safety throughout its working life.
Does this workplace accident need reporting?
Record what happened, then check the specific reporting category and deadline.
Does my business need an EICR?
Look beyond portable appliances to the condition of the wiring and fixed installation.
What fire safety equipment does my business need?
Start with the fire risk assessment, then specify equipment suited to the building and its use.
How do I plan for a safe evacuation?
Think about everyone who could be in the building, including people who need assistance.
What counts as working at height?
The key is the risk of injury from a fall, not a universal minimum height.
Is there a legal maximum lifting weight?
Weight is one part of a handling risk. The task, person and working conditions matter too.
Where should a Scottish business start with fire safety?
Use the Scottish framework and the guidance for your type of premises.
Where should an NI business start with fire safety?
Use Northern Ireland’s legislation and the guidance published by NIFRS.
Where does an NI business start with workplace safety?
Start with the risks of the work and use HSENI’s local guidance.
Where should an NI business start with electrical safety?
Identify the electrical risks of your work and use competent help for technical decisions.