Health and safety inspectors across
North and West Yorkshire have joined forces
The inspectors – who look after everything
from restaurants, shops and offices to factory premises and
construction areas - must have a warrant in order to enter
premises.
But until a new system of ‘flexible warrants’
was introduced earlier this month they could only deal with areas
under their own jurisdiction.
Now the 50 officers working across local
authorities in North and West Yorkshire and the Health and Safety
Executive can cross boundaries.
An inspector with a flexible warrant can go
into premises normally inspected by another local authority or the
HSE to deal with any urgent matters on the spot - whether it’s a
building site, shop, or restaurant.
“This new system means that people enforcing
health and safety legislation are provided with the legal authority
to take action when necessary,” said Head of Regulatory Services
for Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils, Maurice
Cann.
“Local authority inspectors concerned about a
workplace that falls under the HSE’s remit do not now need to wait
for an HSE inspector to come out and visit – they can take action
immediately.
“It also means that neighbouring local
authorities can help each other out when they are problems –
perhaps a serious accident investigation or inspections involving
many premises in several locations
“And by working in partnership we can share
expertise and experience and target resources where they are needed
across the county. It will improve the efficiency and effectiveness
of the service”
September 20, 2011
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