Health and safety items are often overlooked and considered irrelevant until an incident occurs, but it is crucial to prioritise them.
A well-known saying goes, “If you’re complaining about the price of safety, try having an accident and see how much that costs!”
Unfortunately, health and safety measures in organisations and homes are often seen as burdensome, and people are reluctant to invest in them. Even when they do, they often expect unrealistic prices for the services, failing to understand their relevance until something goes wrong.
Many individuals are unaware that, in their domestic properties, they are required by their insurance policies to maintain the building according to current British Standards (BS) and building regulations. This means having up-to-date electrical and gas certificates, along with other things, not just obtaining them at the cheapest price but also rectifying any issues that are found, to ensure your systems are safe for operation.
Health and safety is a necessity! not an afterthought.
Failure to meet these requirements can lead to a situation where, technically, you are not insured.
Many insurance companies now have this specifically written into the clauses, but they are not easy to find; if an accident occurs and there is no current certificate or if necessary, defects have not been rectified!
It becomes apparent then how quickly insurance companies find ways to avoid paying out in such cases.
To illustrate the extensive work involved in these areas, let us delve deeper into each type of inspection:
- Electrical Inspections: Electrical inspections are conducted to evaluate the safety, functionality, and compliance of electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Key points to consider include:
Ensuring electrical safety and reducing the risk of hazards. –
Identifying faulty wiring, damaged components, or potential fire hazards. –
Complying with national and local electrical codes, including BS 7671, the UK standard for electrical installations. –
Maintaining operational efficiency and preventing electrical failures. – Facilitating insurance coverage and meeting legal requirements.
- Fire Alarm Inspections: Regular fire alarm inspections are crucial for early detection and response to fire hazards. Here is what you need to know:
Early detection of fires to minimize damage and ensure prompt evacuation. –
Compliance with fire safety regulations, including BS 5839, the UK code of practice for fire alarm systems. –
Verification of proper operation of fire alarm devices and sensors. –
Maintenance of fire alarm system integrity and reliability.
III. Emergency Lighting Inspections: Emergency lighting inspections are vital to ensure safe evacuation during power outages or emergencies. Consider the following aspects:
Ensuring safe evacuation routes in case of power failures or emergencies. –
Compliance with emergency lighting regulations, including BS 5266, the UK code of practice for emergency lighting. –
Verification of battery backup systems and charging mechanisms. –
Evaluation of lighting fixtures and signage visibility. –
Testing automatic activation and functional testing of emergency lights.
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT): PAT testing ensures the safety of electrical appliances and equipment. Consider the following points:
Ensuring the safety of users by identifying faulty or unsafe appliances. –
Compliance with workplace safety regulations and insurance requirements. –
Preventing electrical shocks, fires, and accidents caused by faulty equipment. –
Maintaining a record of inspected appliances for future reference.
It is essential to highlight that opting for low-cost providers always compromises the quality and thoroughness of inspections, leading to incomplete or inaccurate reports.
Engaging reputable and experienced professionals ensures that inspections are conducted properly, and any identified issues are appropriately addressed.
Investing in safety is an investment in the well-being of individuals and the protection of your property and the sustainability of your business. Remember, the cost of an accident far outweighs the price of safety.