At Prohas H&S Consultancy, we know that facing an unexpected visit from a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspector can be nerve-racking.
Will your business pass inspection? What exactly will they evaluate?
Rest assured, the HSE’s mission aligns with ours: protecting people’s health and safety at work while enforcing UK health and safety law. Understanding what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared.
Before the Knock – Inspection Timing & Rights
HSE inspectors can arrive at any reasonable time, often without warning—whether during routine checks, targeted inspections, or following an incident or complaint. They are authorised to enter your premises but must follow the government’s code of practice. If you feel your rights weren’t respected during their visit, you can lodge a complaint—and Prohas can support you in doing so.
During the Visit – What Inspectors Will Check
Inspectors focus on evidence of your commitment to workplace safety. They may also verify your welfare facilities, such as running water and clean toilets.
They will typically:
- Discuss roles, responsibilities, and how safety is managed.
- Check for workplace risks and hazards.
- Examine machinery and equipment for safety compliance.
- Review documentation: risk assessments, training records, safety policies.
- Take photographs for their records.
- Speak with employees to assess the safety culture and practical knowledge.
Expect to discuss relevant legislation, industry standards, and typical safety practices.
If Something’s Wrong – Enforcement Actions
If an inspector identifies a material breach of law, they can take enforcement measures:
- Informal Advice — verbal or written guidance on improvements.
- Notification of Contravention (NoC) — formal notice of legal breach, triggering the Fee for Intervention (FFI).
- Improvement Notice — details what’s wrong and sets a minimum 21-day deadline for corrections.
- Prohibition Notice — stops dangerous work immediately until it’s made safe.
- Prosecution — for serious or repeated breaches.
Note: Improvement and prohibition notices are publicly published on the HSE site—visible to clients and partners.
Understanding the Fee for Intervention (FFI)
If an NoC is issued, you’ll be charged for the HSE’s time spent investigating, including site visits, reporting, specialist advice, and follow-ups. The current hourly rate for FFI is £183 per hour, effective from 1 April 2025.
Invoices are issued approximately every two months and usually must be paid within 30 days. You can query an invoice within 21 days, and if unresolved, escalate the issue to an independent disputes panel. Cedrec.
Challenging an HSE Decision
Disagree with the inspector’s findings or the FFI charge? Start by speaking with the inspector or their manager. Prohas can assist you in preparing and submitting a formal appeal if needed.
Be Ready—Proactive Preparation Is Your Best Defence
To minimise inspection risk and avoid costly FFI charges:
- Keep risk assessments, policies, and training records up to date.
- Maintain equipment per regulations.
- Foster a safety-first workplace culture.
- Be inspection-ready every day.
