FAQs

Competent Person

A competent person (in health and safety) possesses the necessary knowledge, skills, experience, and training to identify and address potential health and safety risks in the workplace. They have the authority to take appropriate actions to minimise or eliminate these hazards. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing control measures, providing guidance on safe work practices, and ensuring the use of suitable safety equipment.

Having a competent person is crucial to meet your legal obligations and comply with health and safety regulations. According to the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers are required to appoint a competent person(s) to assist in fulfilling their health and safety responsibilities and taking reasonable steps to protect people from harm.

Every organisation, regardless of size or industry, must have access to a competent person to ensure compliance with health and safety laws. Whether you have a small team or a large workforce, and whether your business operates in a low-risk or high-risk sector, it is essential to appoint at least one person to fulfil this role.

Failure to have a competent person can jeopardise the safety of employees and result in decreased productivity. Non-compliance with health and safety requirements can also lead to legal consequences, including fines and prosecutions by the Health and Safety Executive.

If your organisation lacks confidence in managing its health and safety responsibilities internally or operates in a higher-risk industry, RS Safety offers professional external assistance and advice from competent health and safety professionals. Our tailored consultancy services provide the necessary support to effectively manage workplace risks while offering the flexibility you need.

To learn more about our Competent Person service, please contact us.

Health & Safety Audit

Our skilled Health and Safety consultant will conduct a thorough review of your workplace and business processes to identify any health and safety risks and areas of non-compliance. They will assist your business in successfully passing a health and safety audit.

A secure workplace leads to reduced absences and increased efficiency and productivity. Upon completion of the audit, you will receive a comprehensive report highlighting identified issues and opportunities for improvement. We will follow up with a call or meeting to ensure clarity on all items discussed in the report.

Our team of consultants will provide expert guidance and advice to address any issues discovered during the health and safety audit. Fire risk assessments and fire safety protocols are also included as part of the audit process.

All business owners, regardless of their size or number of employees, require health and safety audits to ensure compliance with regulations and avoid potential financial consequences.

Our qualified consultants assess the health and safety management of your business, considering both legal requirements and industry best practices. The audit report summarises identified improvements and provides a roadmap for achieving compliance. We schedule a follow-up call or meeting to ensure thorough understanding of the report.

A health and safety incident or near miss may indicate the need to enhance your company’s safety measures. Relocation or expansion of your business could also warrant an audit. If concerns are raised by staff or management, it is essential to review existing health and safety arrangements periodically to ensure their continued suitability.

To learn more about our Health and Safety and CDM services, please contact us.

Professional Fire Safety Support and Advice

Our team of consultants provides expert advice and guidance to resolve any issues identified during the health and safety audit. This includes comprehensive support for fire risk assessments and fire safety protocols.

Health and safety audits are essential for all business owners, regardless of their size or number of employees. They play a vital role in ensuring that your business meets all the necessary requirements, preventing potential costly consequences.

We have consultants who are qualified to evaluate the health and safety management of your business. In addition to fulfilling legal requirements, we examine industry best practices during the audit. The audit report not only highlights areas for improvement but also provides actionable steps to achieve compliance. We schedule a follow-up call or meeting to ensure a clear understanding of the report.

A need for improvement in health and safety measures may be indicated by an incident or near miss. Business expansion or relocation can also trigger the need for an audit. Health and safety concerns expressed by staff or management should not be overlooked. Regular reviews of existing health and safety arrangements are necessary to ensure their ongoing appropriateness.

To learn more about our Health and Safety, Fire Safety and CDM services, please contact us.

ISO Management Systems

ISO management systems are internationally recognised standards established by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). They provide a framework for organisations of any size or industry to effectively manage their processes. These systems cover various aspects of organisational governance, including quality management, environmental protection, occupational health and safety, and risk management.

ISO 9001 sets the requirements for a quality management system, ensuring consistent delivery of products and services that meet customer and regulatory expectations.

ISO 14001 outlines the requirements for an environmental management system, helping organisations minimise their environmental impact and comply with environmental regulations.

ISO 45001 establishes the requirements for a health and safety management system, aiding organisations in identifying and controlling workplace risks to prevent accidents and injuries.

Implementing an ISO 9001 quality management system can result in improved customer satisfaction, increased efficiency, an enhanced reputation, and better compliance with regulatory and industry standards.

Implementing an ISO 14001 environmental management system can lead to improved environmental performance, increased efficiency, a stronger reputation for environmental responsibility, and greater compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards.

Implementing an ISO 45001 health and safety management system can contribute to improved health and safety performance, increased efficiency, an enhanced reputation for prioritising employee well-being, and better compliance with health and safety regulations and industry standards.

At RS Safety, our services encompass a range of support for implementing and maintaining ISO management systems, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. Our experienced professionals provide guidance and assistance throughout the entire process, from initial assessment and planning to implementation and ongoing maintenance. We also offer training to ensure your employees understand their responsibilities and help your organisation meet the requirements of the relevant ISO standards.

To learn more about our ISO management system services, please contact us.

Method Statements

A Method Statement is a document that outlines the safety procedures to be followed when conducting a specific task or operation. It identifies hazards associated with the activity and provides safety precautions to be taken. The Method Statement also specifies responsibilities for implementing safety measures, training requirements, and risk mitigation strategies.

Implementing effective Method Statements helps companies ensure regulatory compliance and reduce workplace injuries and incidents. By following established procedures, employers can protect their workers and businesses from potential harm and liability.

A comprehensive Method Statement should include:

  • Task or activity information
  • Potential hazards associated with the task.
  • Required control measures.
  • Instructions for conducting the work safely.
  • Emergency procedures
  • Employee training requirements/instructions
  • Ongoing monitoring and review processes.

Including this information ensures safe operations and promotes awareness of responsibilities among staff, thereby maintaining a successful business and protecting employee well-being.

RS Safety offers services to help employers create comprehensive Method Statements tailored to their business. We provide initial assessments and detailed instructions for conducting tasks safely. Our experienced advisors have in-depth knowledge of current legislation and industry best practices, allowing us to deliver meaningful results and help businesses protect their employees while adhering to applicable regulations.

To learn more about our Method Statements services, please contact us.

Risk Assessments

A risk assessment is the process of identifying, evaluating, and controlling potential risks that may arise from the operation of any business. It entails examining existing processes, assessing associated risks, and developing strategies to mitigate those risks.

Risk assessments play a crucial role in helping organisations evaluate the likelihood of injury or illness associated with their operations. These assessments aim to identify potential risks posed by business activities and develop strategies to reduce or eliminate them. By taking proactive measures to minimise workplace accidents, organisations protect their employees and customers, saving time and money by avoiding costly incidents or legal issues.

Conducting health and safety risk assessments is a legal requirement in any workplace. Employers have a responsibility under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 to assess the risks associated with their business operations.

In the UK, qualified personnel with expertise in evaluating potential hazards associated with organisational activities typically conduct risk assessments. A thorough risk assessment typically involves five key steps: identifying hazards, assessing risks, controlling, or mitigating risks, recording findings, and maintaining control measures.

A competent individual with expertise in evaluating risks associated with an organisation’s operations should conduct risk assessments. This person should have thorough knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations and guidance and possess the necessary skills to identify existing and potential risks within the organisation.

Regular reviews of risk assessments are necessary to ensure the continued effectiveness of control or mitigation strategies for identified risks. The frequency of reviews depends on the nature of business operations and associated risks. Generally, it is recommended to review risk assessments at least once a year to incorporate changes in legislation or regulations. Additionally, any significant changes in business operations should trigger a review.

RS Safety provides assistance to businesses and organisations with risk assessments. Our experienced team of health and safety professionals can identify potential risks, provide guidance for implementing control measures, and ensure regulatory compliance. We offer support for conducting initial risk assessments as well as regular reviews to ensure ongoing management of identified risks.

To learn more about our Risk Assessment services, please contact us.

COSHH Assessments

A COSHH Assessment (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) is an essential tool used in workplaces to identify, evaluate, and manage risks associated with hazardous substances. It helps determine if action is needed to reduce risks and ensures that employees receive proper training on safely handling such substances.

A COSHH Assessment is legally required under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. Working with hazardous substances poses risks to employee health, and without an assessment, it is impossible to accurately identify those risks or implement necessary safety measures and training.

A COSHH Assessment analyses direct (e.g., inhalation, ingestion) and indirect (skin contact) exposure routes, as well as the likelihood and severity of adverse health effects. It may include details about protective clothing, equipment, safe work practices, and additional components like air monitoring, engineering controls, administrative controls, or health surveillance programs.

The frequency of reviewing a COSHH Assessment depends on factors such as substance risks, changes in regulations, processes, personnel, or tasks. Generally, it is recommended to review COSHH Assessments at least once every 1-2 years.

A competent individual with expertise in occupational health and safety, particularly hazardous substances, should conduct the COSHH Assessment.

At RS Safety, we specialise in creating safer workplaces. We help clients identify and minimise potential risks posed by hazardous substances through accurate COSHH Assessments. Our services include comprehensive support from assessment to training sessions, ensuring your workers’ safety.

To learn more about our COSHH Assessments services, please contact us.

Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) refers to devices with output display screens, such as computer monitors, laptops, and tablets.

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is regulated by the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, which cover all devices with output display screens used in the workplace.

DSE users are workers who use such equipment daily, continuously for an hour or more. Infrequent or short-term users are not subject to the regulations.

Employers must provide adequate training and instruction to DSE users on safe equipment usage, adjustments, and regular breaks. Conducting workplace assessments related to DSE usage is also important.

Extended periods of screen viewing without breaks can cause eye or neck discomfort. Incorrect positioning or excessive screen time can lead to conditions like repetitive strain injury (RSI). Taking regular breaks and setting up workstations ergonomically help reduce associated risks.

Maintain straight wrists while typing or using the mouse, position the screen at a comfortable distance, adjust the chair for good posture, and take regular breaks to rest the eyes. Regular workplace assessments should be conducted as part of a safety program to minimise potential risks.

RS Safety provides assistance with DSE assessments and ensures the safety of all DSE users. Our trained professionals conduct workplace assessments, provide instructions on safe equipment usage, ergonomic workstation setup, and recommend appropriate breaks and usage practices.

To learn more about our DSE services, please contact us.

FAQ didnt solve your problem?

At RS Safety, we will act as your competent person within a retained service tailored to your needs. By using our consultancy services, you can be reassured that risks in your workplace are managed correctly, whilst giving you the flexibility that you need.

Contact us to learn more about our Competent Person service.