At Melwood we can aid you with matters related to . There might be a time when you need to outsource aid from a competent person. We have a vast amount of knowledge and experience so we can help guide you along the process when or if the Enforcing Authorities have entered your premises either in the unfortunate event of an accident, incident or as a random visit. These authorities can include Fire, HSE, Councils, Environment Agency or the EHO.

An Enforcing Authority’s emphasis is on prevention but, where appropriate, they will enforce the law where they find it is being deliberately contravened. They will take enforcement action to ensure duty holders:

  • Deal immediately with serious risks (so they prevent harm).
  • Comply with the law.
  • Are held to account if they fail in their responsibilities.

Powers of inspectors

Inspectors appointed by an enforcing authority under section 19 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) have broad powers to carry into effect any of the relevant statutory provisions.

The powers set out in sections 20(2) and 25 HSWA include powers to:

  • Enter any premises which inspectors think it necessary to enter for the purposes of enforcing HSWA and the relevant statutory provisions.
  • They may only enter at a ‘reasonable time’, unless they think there is a situation which may be dangerous.
  • If they have reasonable cause to apprehend serious obstruction, they may take a police officer.
  • Order areas to be left undisturbed.
  • take measurements, photographs and recordings.
  • take samples and take possession of, and carry out tests on, articles and substances that appear to have caused (or be likely to cause) danger.
  • Require the production of, inspect and take copies of relevant documents.
  • Require anyone they think might give them relevant information to answer questions and sign a declaration of the truth of the answers.
  • Require facilities and assistance to be provided.
  • Seize and make harmless (by destruction if necessary) any article or substance which they have reasonable cause to believe is a cause of imminent danger of serious personal injury.

Inspectors are also given any other power which is necessary for the purpose of carrying into effect the relevant statutory provisions.

These visits can be daunting and unnerving, At Melwood we can assist with the essential preparation before the visit and provide face to face support on the day of the visit.

For more information about our please contact the Melwood team at hello@melwoodfacilities.co.uk