Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)

This act came into force in 1975 for onshore areas and in 1977, extended to offshore areas. It is important to all persons involved in lifting Equipment as the safe use of lifting appliances and lifting gear is of prime importance.

Effects of the Act

Section 2 – General duties of employers to their employees:

It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure so far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all his employees.

• The provision and maintenance of plant and systems of work
• The provision of such information, instruction and training as is necessary
• The provision and maintenance of a working environment for his employees

Section 7 – General duties of employees at work:

It shall be the duty of every employee while at work.

• To take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and of others
• As regards any duty or requirement imposed on his employer

Section 8 – Duty not to interfere with or misuse equipment

• No person shall intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interest of health, safety or welfare.