In the distant past, the well being of workers were neglected and their safety was rarely considered. This led to a lot of illness and deaths in their ranks. We have since moved on from this cruel way of doing things to more humane protocols. The standards are definitely higher when it comes to the welfare of employees. Various laws and regulations have been put in place to reduce the untoward incidents in the workplace. One of these is the filing of RIDDOR reports London businesses are obligated to do when circumstances trigger it. Below are some of the things that you need to know about these reports:
Responsibility
The responsibility for filing them falls squarely on the shoulders of the employer. They should act immediately not only to help the person involved in the mishap but also to report the incident to the authorities. Sometimes the responsibility can fall on the person who is in control of the place, such as in the case of self-employed individuals working in a rented office.
If the accident happens in a self-employed person’s home or property while performing work tasks, then he or she should be the one to report it. It is possible for members of the public to be injured in workplaces but they are not expected to submit a report using the RIDDOR system. Employees, on the other hand, should tell their employer so that the latter can do his or her duty.
There are also rules for employment agencies, offshore workers, gas suppliers, and gas engineers. The dutyholder for offshore installation is clear from the relevant law passed in 1995. As for diving projects, it would be the contractor sending the report. If there is any confusion regarding this, then people can consult the HSE Energy Division. There are also special cases covered under this like mines and pipelines. For instance, the manager of a mine should report incidents covered under RIDDOR.
Incidents Covered
The scope of RIDDOR is very specific. They include fatalities and injuries that were triggered by accidents in the workplace. Occupational diseases are also covered including overuse injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, occupational asthma, tendonitis, dermatitis, and other issues that are the direct result of repetitive movements. Problems involving biological agents, carcinogens, and mutagens should also be reported as soon as possible. A common example is exposure to asbestos during demolition or renovation. Dangerous occurrences like incidents brought about by heavy lifting, fire, electric problems, and the like are also part of the scope. Learn more by visiting the Health and Safety Executive website.
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