The Health and Safety Offences Act 2008
The Health and Safety Offences Act 2008 came into force in January 2009. The new Act increases penalties and provides the Courts with greater sentencing powers for those who break health and safety laws. The effect of the Act is to:-
- Raise the maximum fine which may be imposed in the lower Court to £20,000 for most health and safety offences.
- Make imprisonment an option for more health and safety offences.
In a recent Court case a director was held responsible for the health and safety implications of their company actions. This tragic case involved the death of a roofing contractor who fell whilst carrying out roof repairs. He had not been wearing a safety harness and had not received adequate training from his employer. The company owner and director pleaded guilty to breaches of health and safety law. However despite pleading not guilty to manslaughter by gross negligence, he was found guilty by the jury and sentenced to 12 months in prison.
If you would like to know more about your health & safety responsibilities as a company director, you should not hesitate to contact us.