The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is a key piece of UK legislation designed to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees at work. It places a legal duty on employers to provide a safe working environment, implement necessary safety measures, and inform workers about risks. Employees also have a duty to take care of their own safety and that of their colleagues. The Act empowers the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to enforce compliance, investigate incidents, and promote safety standards, ultimately aiming to reduce workplace accidents and promote a culture of health and safety.