Health and safety inspections
The enforcement of health and safety legislation is primarily undertaken through routine inspections.
When are inspections undertaken?
The frequency of inspections is dependent on the activity undertaken at a premises and associated risks. Premises are rated following an inspection in accordance with National Guidance. Frequencies range from yearly inspections to four-yearly inspections. Low risk premises may not receive routine inspections, however Officers will stay in contact with such businesses by alternative means.
Businesses are not advised of the frequency of their inspections.
Who undertakes inspections?
Authorised Officers from the Food and Environmental Safety Service will undertake inspections to appropriate premises falling within the Wolverhampton District (see Enforcing Authority for further information)
What happens during an inspection?
Officers will introduce themselves on arrival at the premises and will produce authorisation and identification, on request.
If there are union representatives or staff health and safety representatives at a premises, Officers will normally meet with these to identify any concerns or problems at the workplace.
An Officer has specific powers under the 'Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974' which they may utilise during the course of an inspection, these include:
- entering the premises at any reasonable time
- carry out examinations and investigations
- take measurements, photographs and samples
- take possession of articles or substances
- require people to give accurate information and take statements from them
- inspect and copy any relevant documents
During an inspection the Officer will check that management are aware of their health and safety responsibilities and request information/evidence to prove this. The working environment and work activities will be observed and examined.
What happens following an inspection?
A written inspection report will be forwarded to the Company/ Proprietor of the business within 10 working days of the date of the inspection. The report will outline action taken at the time of the visit, and detail the works, if any, that are required to be taken. The report will detail which issues are legal requirements or recommended good practice, and also detail whether any formal action intends to be taken (i.e. improvement notice, prohibition notice, prosecution etc). Authorised Officers have certain enforcement powers available to them.
Enquiries and complaints
To make an enquiry or complaint online please use this form.
Further information about the Food and Environmental Safety Service and other contact details can be found on our Standards of Service page.