Other simplification initiatives including stakeholder simplification proposals and progress made
Stakeholder proposals
Stakeholders have had the opportunity to suggest simplification initiatives either through the BRE web portal, direct to departments, or via other stakeholder groups that HSE are engaged with.
Of the eleven proposals accepted in 2006 plan:
- Four have been completed - core-criteria for electrical contractors endorsed by HSE, a list of health and safety regulations published, consideration of the certification of gas installers and a review of accident reporting;
- Three are part of larger HSE projects currently underway - review of the health and safety information poster, review of the OSR1 form for registering a business and clarification of the requirements of PUWER and LOLER;
- Two required joint working with other Government departments and this is now underway – review of the notification requirements for ammonium nitrate fertilizers (with the Fire Service) and co-ordinated working on radiation policy (with the Environment Agency);
- One was part of an initiative by the Small Business Service (now the Enterprise Directorate in the Department of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform); and
- One required working in Europe to propose a simpler process for applying for exemptions under the Genetically Modified Organism (Contained Use) Regulations, and this is being taken forward.
Since publication of the 2006 plan, HSE has received very few new suggestions. Of the five received:
- two were rejected as they were misunderstandings of the law, and
- three were suggestions from individuals at Borough of Poole and Dupont Limited, which concerned helping small businesses understanding health and safety information. These have been accepted for further consideration as part of HSE’s project to improve information and guidance to SMEs.
HSE has been working with the Institute of Directors (IoD) to develop targeted guidance for company directors to explain their duties under health and safety law. It aims to both raise awareness amongst Directors of health and safety responsibilities and de-mystify health and safety law, making it clearer and easier to comply. This jointly-badged guidance was published in October 2007.
