Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 is the primary legislation covering occupational health and safety in Great Britain. It places duties on employers to protect staff, service users and visitors.
Who it applies to
Every care and health employer, alongside self-employed people and those in control of premises.
Key points
What HSWA means for care providers in practice.
Supporting work within HSWA
Manage risk assessments and reviews in one register.
Track health and safety training and competencies.
Log incidents, hazards and remedial actions.
Evidence safe systems of work for inspection.
Sectors & bodies
The care sectors most affected by HSWA, and the national bodies most involved. Applicability varies by provider type, programme and UK nation.
National bodies
Alongside UK-wide frameworks, care is also shaped by the distinct regulators and standards of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Explore the nations & regions directory for nation-level intelligence.
Explore other regulatory frameworks
Turn regulatory complexity into a defensible posture
CareFocusIQ brings national bodies, programmes, nations and frameworks into a single intelligent platform that supports UK care providers.
CareFocusIQ provides technology and intelligence to support care operations and compliance. It is not a medical device and does not provide legal advice. Regulatory requirements vary by provider type, service and UK nation, and remain the responsibility of each provider.