Health and safety at work

We are responsible for enforcing the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and related regulations in certain commercial premises across Hartlepool. This includes:

  • offices
  • shops
  • warehouses
  • restaurants, pubs and clubs
  • leisure facilities
  • private nurseries

Our role is to ensure these premises are safe for employees, contractors, and visitors.

What we do

We carry out:

  • routine health and safety interventions
  • investigations into workplace accidents
  • responses to complaints about unsafe conditions

Who enforces what?

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for enforcement in other types of premises, including:

  • factories and construction sites
  • schools and colleges
  • hospitals and nursing homes
  • fairgrounds
  • utilities (gas, electricity, water)
  • central and local government buildings

Visit the HSE website for full enforcement responsibilities

Advice for businesses

Employers must assess and manage health and safety risks to:

  • employees
  • contractors
  • members of the public visiting the premises

The HSE provides helpful guidance for businesses, including:

Reporting an accident at work

Certain work-related injuries, diseases, and dangerous occurrences must be reported under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR).

Learn more about RIDDOR and how to report

Need help or advice?
Contact: HBC.CommercialServicesTeam@hartlepool.gov.uk