Theory and Practice

Looking at two areas of Health and Safety, broadly speaking the theory and the practice. Firstly the main health and safety laws affecting vehicle operators. And then some commonly encountered high risk activities and explains how control measures should be implemented.

Though the Health and Safety Executive’s jurisdiction over vehicles on public roads is limited, they can and do inspect and enforce the law in depots, factories, construction sites and other off-road premises. Members should, therefore, ensure they are aware of and comply with their legal duties. Breaches of health and safety law can incur both criminal and civil liability. Criminal responsibility arises mainly from legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA). It is enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and local authority environmental health officers.

There are a number of areas that need to be addressed regarding workplace transport. It is essential that employers carry out risk assessment and consider these areas and any others that may be specific to their operation, e.g. hazardous substances etc.