This general agreement sets out how HSE, as a regulator, works with the Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Visiting forces
A parallel agreement exists with the United States Forces in Great Britain which clarifies the application of the HSW Act and the arrangements in place to ensure safety of GB workers and members of the public.
You can read the Memorandum of Agreement between United States Force in Great Britain, HSE and the Ministry of Defence.
HSE operational inspectors
HSE has a number of operational inspectors across the organisation who target their inspections on areas of greatest risk – including:
- Field Operations Directorate – liaison and inspection of MOD sites at the local level as necessary. This includes investigation of selected incidents
- Explosives Inspectorate – has an agreed engagement and intervention plan with MOD. This includes conducting a series of joint inspections at MOD licensed explosives sites
- Gas and pipelines Unit – Liaison with Defence Infrastructure Organisation
- Biological Agents Unit – Liaison and inspection of certain DSTL specialised sites
- Diving Inspectorate – Liaison with MOD Superintendent of Diving and inspection as necessary
- CSAG Radiation Inspectors – ongoing liaison with MOD regarding non-ionising radiation, including radon
- Public Services Sector – formally meet with MOD central safety team and MOD’s Chief Environmental and Safety Officers (CESOs) twice yearly, to discuss current and emerging issues
Note: The Office of the Nuclear Regulator (ONR) is no longer an agency of HSE so there are separate arrangements for ONR working with MOD.