Legislation

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Provides the main structure for all safety regulations
Employers need to ensure health, safety, and welfare at work for all staff
Employees have obligations to take care of teammates and customers, follow instructions and training

Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

Rules around transporting or supporting a load by hand or bodily force
Employers need to minimise the risk of injury from manual handling tasks
Employees have a duty to take care of their own health and safety

Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992

Requirements for provision, use and maintenance of personal protective equipment
Employers need to provide suitable and well-maintained equipment
Employees must use equipment properly and report any lost or defective items

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002

Guidelines to prevent or reduce workers exposure to harmful substances
Employers must carry out risk assessments, implement necessary measures, and provide information and training for staff
Employees must make full and correct use of any control measures

Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981

Deals with first aid provision in the workplace
Employers must provide suitable first aid equipment, facilities, and trained personnel
Employees have a responsibility to report injuries and illness.

RIDDOR 2013 (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations)

Foresees the reporting of workplace injuries, diseases, and near misses
Employers, self-employed and people in control of work premises have a duty to report serious work related accidents
Reports help regulatory bodies to investigate serious incidents and spot trends

Data Protection Act 2018

Covers how organisations can collect, use, store and dispose of personal data
Employers must process data lawfully, keep it secure and accurate
Individuals have rights such as the right to be informed and the right to erasure

Understanding different areas of workplace health and safety legislation helps to develop a comprehensive approach to workplace wellbeing and risk management. In the health and social care sector, these laws protect both workers and those who use health and social care services.