Workplace compliance is much more than a statutory requirement. It’s a commitment to the health and safety of your staff and building users, and contributes to business success.
We all know that meeting statutory requirements can be challenging for any organisation. However, updating your New Year safety checklist is an effective way to keep your business safe and your building or workplace compliant.
Here’s how to do it.
Establishing regulatory compliance shows that your business adheres to the rules and regulations governing your industry. What’s more, it’s the best way to avoid unnecessary risks, build trust, and maintain operational efficiency.
Creating a health and safety compliance checklist doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s all about taking a well-structured approach and creating an actionable document that’s easy for others to use and implement.
If your safety checklist needs an update, try this simple 5-step approach:
Read more about statutory compliance vs best practice.
A health and safety compliance checklist isn’t a nice-to-have if you want to create a safe working environment. It’s a must-have that allows you to mitigate risks and stay ahead of ever-changing regulations.
Dividing your tasks into statutory testing and best practice checks is a holistic approach that ensures you meet and exceed your legal obligations.
Statutory Inspection and testing is not an option. It must be carried out by law, or your business may risk fines and reputational damage.
1. EICR inspections
EICR Inspections and Certification (Fixed Wire Testing) helps prevent accidents by verifying a building’s fixed wiring, circuits, consumer units, earthing and bonding, plus accessories such as sockets and light fittings. Inspections must be carried out by fully qualified engineers, using specialised equipment to test the installation.
Why is an EICR inspection essential? EICR inspections are critical for identifying fire hazards, shock risks, overloads and faults in your electrical installation.
How often should EICR testing be carried out? EICR testing is a mandatory requirement for landlords every 5 years.
2. Fire risk assessments
If you’re responsible for a building, a fire risk assessment is mandatory. Fire risk assessments identify and evaluate hazards, identify people at risk, and implement fire safety measures.
Why are fire risk assessments essential? You must undertake fire risk assessments to remain legally compliant with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
How often? Fire risk assessments should be carried out annually and updated after any incidents or building works.
3. Fire testing
Regular fire extinguisher, emergency lighting, and Fire Alarm Testing are also mandated under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. These tests ensure your emergency systems are fit for purpose in an emergency and can also identify any existing faults.
Why is fire testing essential? Early fire detection saves lives and reduces the risk to people and property. Regular fire alarm testing ensures your systems are compliant and meet legal standards.
Fire extinguishers are also your first line of defence for small fires. Fire Extinguisher Testing ensures your equipment is in working order.
Visible escape routes are just as essential in an emergency. Emergency light testing guarantees there are no battery or lamp failures, either through flick testing or full duration tests.
How often should fire testing be carried out?
Best practice checks exist for a reason. These electrical equipment tests may not be a legal requirement, but skipping them could invalidate your insurance and increase safety risks in the workplace.
Electrical Equipment Testing (formerly PAT)
Electrical Equipment Testing is the updated name for PAT testing. It’s a combination of electrical tests and visual inspections that ensure the safety of construction tools, IT equipment, portable appliances, extension leads, and more.
Why is EET / PAT testing essential?EET (PAT) testing minimises the risks of fire, electric shock, and other hazards. It’s best practice for extending the life of your equipment and is essential for insurance purposes.
How often should EET / PAT testing be carried out? Depending on the type of equipment and the environment, testing should be carried out from at least every 3 months for high-risk environments construction sites to 12 months for rented properties, educational facilities, and commerce buildings.
Ensuring workplace compliance is easy with a well-constructed safety checklist and testing timetable.
At phs Compliance, we can help you stay on top of statutory testing and support best practices for your business. To find out more, contact us today to discuss your testing requirements with our specialist team.
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