Health and safety isn't a checkbox: Explore our health and safety courses

Health and safety training covers the essential knowledge and skills required to ensure one’s own safety, as well as the safety of others in a workplace. A standard health and safety course delves into the responsibilities and legal requirements in place, identifies various workplace hazards and the risks associated with them and outlines emergency procedures to deploy when a hazard poses a significant threat.

Learners will also become familiar with key safety signs to be aware of in a working environment and understand how different workplaces might present unique hazards.

Health and safety training offers more than just injury prevention in the workplace. One key benefit is fostering a positive workplace culture where every individual feels secure and valued. A safe work environment results in a potential reduction in insurance premiums and compensation claims, leading to long-term financial savings. On a personal level, employees who undergo health and safety training gain valuable knowledge and skills, reinforcing ethical and safe work practices.

Introduced in 1974, The Health and Safety at Work Act is the key piece of legislation for health and safety in the UK. It is legally required that employers and employees take responsibility for their health and safety and take the practicable steps to ensure they’re not at risk in the workplace. According to HSE, across 2021 and 2022,1.8 million working people in the UK suffered a work-related illness or accident, of which:

• 914,000 workers suffered work-related stress, depression or anxiety.
• 477,000 workers suffering from a work-related musculoskeletal disorder.

Health and safety goes a long way in stopping workers from suffering these incidents by addressing the root cause – a lack of knowledge.

All individuals within a workplace, regardless of their position, who might encounter workplace hazards in their day-to-day duties need health and safety training. This ensures they operate safely and without jeopardising their health. This also extends to contractors. The only exception under the Health and Safety Act are self-employed individuals whose work activities don’t pose any threat to their health.

For businesses with five or more employees, maintaining a documented health and safety policy is a legal obligation. While businesses with fewer than five employees aren’t legally required to have this documentation, it’s still recommended.

Particular industries, like construction, have heightened risks of accidents or hazards. In such sectors, individuals might need specialised training tailored to the specific nature of their job and the potential dangers they might encounter.

The health and safety training your employees require is determined by the nature of your business and the risks within your work environment. Such training can encompass a range of topics, including first aid, fire safety, ergonomics, handling of hazardous materials, equipment safety, prevention of violence and security breaches and even cyber security.

Our online Health and Safety Training equips learners with knowledge essential for maintaining safety in the workplace. It emphasises the importance of collaboration with employers, proper utilisation of trained equipment, wearing provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), addressing accidents and risk management.

We also offer the online Manual Handling Training. This training enhances your understanding of manual handling, spinal anatomy, related injuries and their causative factors, ensuring risks are minimised.

In accordance with health and safety legislation, employers, business owners and managers bear the responsibility for ensuring health and safety within their businesses and adhering to regulatory standards. It is the responsibility of employers to safeguard the health, safety and well-being of not only their employees but also others who might be impacted by their business operations, such as contractors and visitors. Employers are obligated to take all reasonably practicable measures to ensure this, which might include providing adequate training and safety equipment.

While the primary responsibility rests with those in leadership positions, employees, contractors, visitors and even the self-employed also have crucial roles to play. They are expected to work safely, adhere to any documented health and safety protocols set by the company, report any concerns and undergo any compulsory health and safety training.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) operates as the UK’s official regulator for workplace health and safety. HSE extends its support to businesses by offering free advice and guidelines, assisting employers in effectively managing workplace hazards. Their primary focus is on industries exhibiting the highest risks and sectors with subpar risk management track records.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 stipulates that individuals must possess ‘sufficient training and experience’, the specifics of which depend on the nature of your role and the industry you work in.

To become a health and safety officer, a strong educational background combined with professional qualifications is often necessary. Additionally, several personal skills are beneficial, including problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, organisational skills, attention to detail  and the ability to meet deadlines.

There are multiple pathways to pursue a career as a health and safety officer:

• While not always mandatory, there are degrees specifically tailored to occupational health and safety.
• Some businesses provide opportunities like placements, apprenticeships, work experience and on-the-job training, including NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) in health and safety.
• Private training providers, such as the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH) and NEBOSH offer accredited courses.
• Continual professional development is important. 

No matter the nature or size of your business, there exist hazards that can result in accidents and occupational illnesses. Regular health and safety training for staff is essential to ensure a safe and healthy work environment and foster a culture of safety.

Here’s why workplace health and safety training is crucial:

• It’s a legal requirement to ensure the health and safety of your employees.
• Boost profitability: Businesses that consistently prioritise workplace health and safety are often viewed as reliable partners, conversely, those with a track record of health and safety lapses might suffer reputational damage, face fines for breaches and consequently see a hit in revenue.
• Enhance employee productivity and morale.
• Efficient operations experience fewer disruptions from illnesses and accidents. When employees feel valued and safe, their productivity often rises.

The Health and Safety Work Act 1974 mandates that every employer provide the necessary information, instruction, training and supervision to ensure the health and safety of their employees while at work. The specific type of health and safety training an employer must offer depends on the industry sector and the nature of the employee’s job role. This can include specialist training on particular hazards, such as asbestos or chemicals.