Legislation

The health and safety at work legislation provides a number of safeguards for people at work, whether they are an employer, an employee, a self-employed person or one of your guests.

If you employ five or more people, you are required to prepare a statement of policy on health and safety at work, and to make arrangements to put this policy into practice. If you employ fewer than five people, you do not need to prepare a formal statement, but you are still expected to apply the duties of care outlined in the legislation.

Especially if you are setting up a manufacturing business, you should make early contact with the local office of the Health and Safety Executive. It produces a wide range of publications, and its staff will advise you on specific points relating to your activities, such as working with chemicals.

There are many regulations governing the serving, preparation and storage of food. Whether you provide food in a marquee or a hotel, you will be classed as a food business. Your environmental health office within your local council should be your first point of contact for more information and advice.