Isle of Wight businesses failing HSE inspections

In May 2023, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors conducted a two-day inspection of businesses on the Isle of Wight. 

They found health and safety failures in 84% of the 33 companies visited. The HSE issued 7 improvement notices and 4 prohibition notices and advised many of the firms on improvements that needed to be made.
 
The health and safety breaches included poor working at height practices, exposure to dust from wood, unguarded machinery, welding fumes and other hazards dangerous to health. The inspectors also found poor staff welfare facilities. The companies visited ranged from small to large businesses and industries, employing between just a handful and hundreds of workers. Companies should expect follow-up visits to check whether improvements have been made.
  
Nancy Harman, the HSE principal inspector, explained that "by concentrating our resources at the same time, it allowed us to be more efficient in making sure businesses are putting good control measures in place and that the health and safety of workers is at the top of the agenda for everyone."
  
Harman said that the reason for inspections is for every worker to go home from work safe and without health risks.
 
These inspections show that HSE inspectors can make unannounced visits at any time. To be ready for inspections, firms should perform a health and safety review to make sure that all staff have the correct PPE equipment) and are trained in its use. Necessary machinery guards, ventilation equipment, guard rails and other health and safety equipment require regular inspections and maintenance.