How we work
HSE's operational inspectors and health and safety awareness officers deal with a range of industries, including the plastics industry, on a day-to-day basis. They visit premises in line with HSE's Delivery Plan, using a range of methods including:
- on-site inspections (announced and unannounced)
- accident and complaint investigations
- guidance and support, through visits, by phone and at industry events
- serving enforcement notices and prosecuting where necessary
HSE's manufacturing sector staff provide support at a national level for both the plastics industry and the HSE operational staff who deal with the industry. HSE works with stakeholders, including trade associations and trade unions, on initiatives to help promote and improve health and safety management in the industry.
The responsibilities of the HSE staff working within the plastics sector include:
- providing support and advice to HSE operational staff during accident investigations, inspections or legal proceedings
- engaging with industry stakeholders to promote and support industry initiatives to improve health and safety in companies
- helping HSE to deliver the Be part of the solution strategy
- gathering intelligence to ensure HSE and business resources are targeted at those areas presenting the greatest risk to health and safety
- helping to ensure the UK's interests are represented during the production of European machinery safety standards
- setting and agreeing with industry on the minimum safeguarding standards for machines for which there are no specific European standards
- monitoring the health and safety performance of the industries covered