HSE cost recovery is wake up call to plant managers03 November 2011

Proposals by HSE (Health & Safety Executive) to recharge for inspectors' time, if health and safety breaches are detected, will have serious financial implications for plant managers.

Paul Laidler, managing director of Laidler Associates (a division of TÜV SÜD Product Service) has joined the ranks of critics warning that costs associated with failure could mount up very quickly.

"It's important that employers are fully aware of these new proposals," states Laidler. "However, they should also bear in mind that the charges will only apply to companies that break health and safety laws. So those that are careful about meeting their responsibilities and staying within the law will not be affected in any way."

In essence, the HSE is seeking to recover, from offending employers, the costs it incurs while investigating a material breach of health and safety law, and also any additional costs in providing support to the employer in ensuring that the situation is remedied.

The arrangements have already been agreed in principle with HM Government, and the proposals were available for public consultation until 14 October. If, as seems likely, they are adopted, the new system of charging could start as soon as April 2012, and it is estimated that the HSE will charge for its inspectors' time at £133 per hour.

Laidler says the new proposals are a wake-up call to plant managers to review their health and safety practices and procedures, to ensure that nothing has been overlooked.

In particular, he warns that machinery users should check that their PUWER assessments are up to date and comprehensive in their coverage.

Brian Tinham

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