HSE Inspections & Investigations
There are a multitude of reasons why businesses may face HSE investigations. These can range from minor process issues which are not to regulation, to very serious incidents if the injury or death of an employee is suspected to be due to poor health & safety protocol in the workplace.
Usually after their visit, an HSE inspector will do one of the following:
- offer advice (either verbal or in writing)
- give you a notification of contravention
- give you an improvement notice
- give you a prohibition notice
- prosecute you for breaching health and safety laws.
If further action is required, our team can provide a helping hand through each stage of the HSE investigation. From the auditing of risk assessments and current practices, through to representation at Court if it gets that far, you can rely on our regulatory specialists who will advise on your best approach and all possible outcomes so you are fully informed throughout proceedings.
Can HSE turn up unannounced?
It is not uncommon for a HSE inspector to arrive without warning. The law dictates that they can visit at any reasonable time, and although they may sometimes give notice, they don’t have to.
The HSE inspector must still adhere to their code of practice when entering business premises.
What can we help with?
Whatever the issue that the Health & Safety Executive is investigating, you can count on us to support you and provide legal guidance no matter the severity of the alleged incident or breach.
We will be by your side at every stage of the investigation, including, if necessary:
- Interview under caution (PACE)
- Criminal prosecution defence
- Coroner’s inquest representation
An overview of the areas we can support you in is below, although not exhaustive:
- Breach of asbestos regulation
- Breach of duty of employees while at work
- Breach of employer duty toward employees & non-employees
- Breach of food safety & food hygiene regulations
- Breach of Health & Safety Regulations
- Corporate manslaughter
- Data & document disclosure issues
- Directors’ duties & legal liabilities
- Enforcement notices & appeals
- Gross negligence manslaughter
- HSE & Local Authority requests for information