Safety in the workplace

RoSPA estimates that there are 1.6 million workplace injuries and 2.2 million cases of ill health caused or made worse by work in the UK each year.

Different work places have different health and safety issues. If you’re working with chemicals or dangerous implements the risk to your health is more obvious. But even if you work in an office, your job might be making you ill – about 20 per cent of all occupational ill health reported is stress-related.

For employers

As an employer you have a legal duty to meet minimal health and safety standards. If you’re not sure what your safety responsibilities actually are, take a look at this quick guide.

For employees

Know your rights. Wherever you work, your boss has a duty to maintain minimum health and safety standards. If you’ve suffered an injury at work or you think your job might be making you ill, you should investigate why and speak to your boss or HR department. If you find it difficult approaching your employer, or they won’t listen to your concerns, you can get free and confidential advice from the Health and Safety executive.

Fire safety at work

Your workplace should be covered by fire regulations and it’s important that employers and staff are aware of what they are.

Employers: If you own, manage or operate a business, you will need to comply with fire safety law. For further information, see the Regulatory Reform Order 2005. Under the fire regulations, you also need to have a risk assessment carried out by someone who has had sufficient training. If you’re not sure whether or not your workplace complies with the regulations, contact your local borough team for advice and help.
Employees: Although your boss should have made sure certain fire safety precautions are in place, you also have a responsibility to know how to take care of yourself and colleagues. Read more about safety at work.

Policing & safety

Who does what

Emergency services

What to do in an emergency

Freedom of information

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