A BBC investigation has revealed that even the highest profile employers can fall behind with their health and safety paperwork.
The BBC reported on 21 January that a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report had revealed that health and safety documentation at the Queen’s Sandringham Estate in Norfolk was out of date.
The report was prepared after an estate worker had to be rescued after he was trapped underwater when the ride-on mower he was using fell into a lake at Sandringham last July. He had to be airlifted to hospital but has since made a full recovery.
The HSE report, which was released to the BBC under a Freedom of Information request, found there were no health and safety management issues relating to the accident or the machinery but identified “a number of issues that require action”.
It said some out-of-date risk assessments remained in circulation and recommended a review of lone working at Sandringham. Health and safety is a key issue for any employer, which requires ongoing attention to ensure businesses keep their policies, procedures, risk assessments and training up-to-date.
The Palmers team can provide comprehensive advice and guidance to help employers meet their legal health and safety obligations. For more information about our health and safety services, please visit our website or contact Lara Murray or Jeremy Sirrell.