The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 is the cornerstone of workplace safety law in the UK. It sets out the duties employers and employees have to keep workplaces safe, and it underpins almost every other health and safety rule that follows.
This plain-English guide explains what the Act says, what it means for employers and workers, and how training helps you meet its requirements.
What the Act is for
The Act exists to protect people at work and others who may be affected by work activities. Rather than listing every possible hazard, it sets out broad duties and the principle of doing what is "reasonably practicable" to keep people safe. This flexible approach is why it has remained relevant for decades.
Employer duties under the Act
Employers must, so far as is reasonably practicable:
- Provide a safe workplace, safe equipment and safe systems of work.
- Provide suitable information, instruction, training and supervision.
- Assess and control risks.
- Look after the welfare of employees at work.
See how this works day to day in our guide to training for employers.
Employee duties under the Act
Employees also have responsibilities. They must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others, and cooperate with their employer on safety matters - for example by following procedures and using equipment correctly.
How training helps you comply
Training is one of the clearest ways to show you are meeting the Act's requirements. Providing suitable awareness courses, recording completion and refreshing knowledge all demonstrate that you take your duties seriously. Start with a risk assessment, then match courses to the risks you find on our courses page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974?
It is the main piece of UK legislation that sets out the general duties of employers and employees to keep workplaces safe.
What does "reasonably practicable" mean?
It means weighing the level of risk against the time, cost and effort needed to control it, and doing what is sensible and proportionate to reduce that risk.
Do employees have duties under the Act?
Yes. Employees must take reasonable care of themselves and others and cooperate with their employer on health and safety.
How does training relate to the Act?
Providing suitable information, instruction and training is one of the employer duties set out in the Act.
Turn legal duties into simple action
Match training to the risks in your workplace and certify your team online with clear records.
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