Health and Safety Executive

Step 2: Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance

The law says most employers must have Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance. If this applies to you, you must display the certificate where your staff can easily read it. You could be fined if you do not have a current policy.

Your staff may be injured or get ill because of their work for you. They might try to claim compensation from you if they think you are responsible. Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance means you have cover against claims like these.

Who should I take a policy out with?

You must use an authorised insurer. The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has a list of authorised insurers. You can check if a company is authorised by searching the register on www.fsa.gov.uk or by telephoning the FSA consumer helpline on 0845 606 1234.

Do I need this insurance?

The answer is almost certainly 'yes'. However, you may not need it if you have no employees, are a family business and closely related to your staff, or a public organisation (for example, a government department or a health service body).

To find out more, including:

  • how much cover you need;
  • who does not need Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance; and
  • which employees your policy must cover,

Download our free advice for employers. Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 - a guide for employers', HSE40(rev3) [285KB]


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