Is Your UK Business Compliant? Essential Health & Safety Documents You Need

Running a business in the UK comes with important responsibilities – especially when it comes to the wellbeing of your team. If you employ 5 or more people, the law requires you to have specific health and safety policies in place. But even if you’re smaller, robust safety practices protect your people, your reputation, and your bottom line.

At IESS, we understand that navigating health and safety compliance can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to lift the burden. Let us handle your documentation, so you can focus on what you do best.

Why Proper Documentation Matters

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and related regulations, UK businesses must proactively manage risks. Written policies aren’t just paperwork – they’re proof of your commitment to safety and a legal safeguard for your organisation.

The Legal Must-Haves (For businesses with 5+ employees):

1️⃣ Written Health & Safety Policy: A clear statement of your commitment, roles, and practical arrangements for managing risks.

2️⃣ Risk Assessments: Documented evaluations of workplace hazards and how you control them.

3️⃣ Accident & Incident Records: Including an accident book and RIDDOR reporting procedures.

4️⃣ Industry-Specific Plans: Such as:

• COSHH Assessments (chemical safety)

• Manual Handling Assessments

• Fire Risk Assessment & Emergency Plan

• DSE (Display Screen Equipment) Assessments

• Asbestos Management Plans (where applicable)

5️⃣ First Aid Arrangements: Documented first-aiders, kit locations, and procedures.

Highly Recommended Best-Practice Documents:

Even if not strictly mandatory, these protect your team and strengthen compliance:

• Safe Systems of Work / Method Statements

• Training Records

• Workplace Inspection Reports

• Contractor Management Procedures

• Lone Working Policy

• Driving for Work Policy

• Stress Risk Assessment & Policy

• Equipment Maintenance Logs (PAT, LOLER, PUWER)

• Emergency Procedures beyond fire (medical, major incidents)

Don’t Risk Generic Templates

Every business is unique. Your documents must reflect your workplace, your risks, and your team. Off-the-shelf templates often fail legal scrutiny and leave you exposed.

How IESS Simplifies Compliance

We become your trusted partner in safety:

1. We Listen: Start with a simple site visit and consultation to understand your needs.

2. We Tailor: Choose ongoing support as your dedicated health & safety partner, or request specific one-off documents.

3. We Deliver: Expertly crafted, legally compliant documents designed for your business.

4. We Support: Keep your policies updated as regulations or your operations change.

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Ready to ensure compliance and protect your team?

➡️ Contact IESS today for a no-obligation consultation. Let’s discuss how we can create, review, or manage your health & safety documentation – accurately, efficiently, and stress-free.

Your safety is our priority. Your peace of mind is our promise.