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Self-employment H&S law changes

16.05.13

Last week, The Queen delivered her annual speech which included the news that sole-traders will be exempt from Health & Safety rules from October 2013.

Until now, self-employed workers fell under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.

The decision was made after Health & Safety Executive (HSE) opened a three-month consultation between 2nd August and 28th October 2012 following a review conducted by Professor Löfstedt. Four possible options surrounding self-employed workers being exempt from Health & Safety regulations were being considered and they have since made their decision based on the feedback acquired.

Prior to the consultation, HSE's Policy Advisor Sarah Wadham said: "The questions in the Consultative Document concern how best to give effect to Professor Löfstedt's recommendation and HSE would particularly welcome comments from the self-employed about the proposal".

Self-employed sole traders working in offices are most likely to benefit from the new ruling, where as Health & Safety laws will still apply to those who's roles are considered 'high-risk' e.g. construction workers, tradesmen etc. and any roles which could put somebody else in danger.

Click here to view the summay of HSE's consultation.

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