Q I have been warned that I am shortly to expect
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a visit to my transport depot and workshops of the inspector connected with the Health and Safety at Work Act. I would like to know beforehand what powers such inspectors hold. Could you enlighten me?
A Section 20 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 gives very wide powers to an inspector.
He may enter premises at any reasonable time or, if he thinks that a dangerous situation exists, at any time. If he feels that he might be seriously obstructed he is empowered to ask a police constable to accompany him.
In the course of his inspection he may make any examination and investigation which he might feel necessary and he must be left undisturbed for as long as is reasonably necessary for him to do so.
He may take measurements, photographs and recordings or take samples of substances found on the premises. Any article which appears to him to have caused or be likely to cause danger to health or safety may be tested or ordered to be dismantled.
An inspector may demand information from whoever he might think fit and he can ask him to make a signed declaration about the truth of his answers.
Section 33 of the Act states that it is an offence to contravene any requirement imposed by an inspector under Section 20. The maximum penalty is a fine of £400.