Health and safety policy statement template for hospitality.

In the UK the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 states that every employer must so far as is reasonably practicable ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees and others who may be affected by their business. Under this legislation employers must establish and maintain a health and safety policy which includes a written statement of their approach to managing health and safety. This statement is often referred to as the “Health and Safety Policy Statement” and is a formal commitment from the employer to health and safety and outlines the responsibilities of management and employees to a safe working environment. The law requires this statement to be brought to the attention of all employees, reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in the business or legislation. This document is the foundation of a safety culture in the workplace and compliance with the law.

In the U.S. the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act 1970 is overseen by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Similar to the UK’s Health and Safety at Work Act, the OSH Act requires employers to provide a workplace that is “free from recognised hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm” to employees.

Under OSHA guidelines it’s recommended but not mandatory for U.S. businesses to have a written safety and health policy. OSHA does however provide guidance that encourages employers to put in writing specific safety responsibilities, management commitments and safety procedures similar to the structure found in UK policy statements. Many U.S. businesses choose to have written safety policies for compliance and a clear safety culture, just like what’s expected in UK legislation.

Health and safety policy statement below

This company acknowledges and accepts its statutory responsibilities under The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 in so far as is reasonably practicable, for securing the health, safety and welfare of its employees, contractors, visitors, and members of the public on the premises.

All employees have a legal responsibility for their own safety and that of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions and not to interfere or misuse anything provided in the interests of health and safety.

This company accept responsibility for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining this Policy throughout the business including maintaining the business premises. All Responsible Persons identified on our Health & Safety Organisational Chart must ensure that health and safety considerations are always given priority in the planning, safe working practice and day-to-day supervision of work.

All employees, of This company are required to co-operate, in carrying out this policy and must ensure that their own work, so far as is reasonably practicable, is carried out without risk to themselves or the health and safety of others.

Responsible Persons identified by This company will, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure that:

• •adequate resources are provided to ensure that proper provision can be made for health and safety.
• •risks arising from work activities are assessed effective control measures implemented and suitable policies and procedures are provided, put in place, and regularly reviewed.
• •safe systems of work are provided and maintained.
• •arrangements for use handling, storage and transport of articles and substances for use at work are safe and without risks to health.
• •all employees receive information, instruction, training, and supervision to reduce risk to their safety and health whilst at work and the safety of others who may be affected by their actions.
• •an appropriate level of information and instruction is provided to visitors, service providers and occupiers.
• •where appropriate, health and surveillance will be provided to employees.
• •provision and maintenance of all plant, machinery and equipment is safe and without risk to health.
• •the working environment of all employees is safe and without risks to health and that adequate provision is made regarding the facilities and arrangements for their welfare at work.
• •work related accidents, ill health and safety performance are regularly monitored
• •ensure that there are established and maintained effective procedures for consultation and communication between all levels of management to employees on all matters relating to health and welfare.

This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed at least annually, or when there is a significant change within This company or change to relevant legislation. Any changes made to this policy will be communicated to all employees.