The 1974 Health and Safety at Work Act
The Health and Safety at Work Act was introduced in 1974. Section 2 of this act places an onus on all companies to ensure that their employees are safe whilst at work. This liability is, however, not unlimited but has to be seen to be reasonable and practicable. Unlimited fines can be applied in the Crown Court for employers who are found to be in breach of this act. Furthermore section 40 of the same act insists that employers effectively prove their innocence rather than the court having to find them guilty. Contrary to popular belief there is no provision in law for companies and directors of companies to be sent to jail under the terms of section 2 although there are certain rare specific parts of the act where this is possible. More about the Health and Safety at Work Act.