COMPANY directors are being urged to gear up for a new health and safety law which will give courts greater powers to punish them for breaches. The Health and Safety (Offences) Act came into force on 16 / 1 / 2009, but lawyers in Manchester say it has largely slipped under the radar because the news agenda has been dominated by the global economic crisis. It raises the maximum fines for breaking health and safety laws from £5,000 to £20,000 in the magistrates courts, although they remain unlimited in the Crown Courts. It also carries the threat of jail for all employees who may have contributed to an offence through consent, connivance or neglect. Steffan Groch, head of law firm DWF's regulatory team, said: "We are likely to see tougher punishments, including more jail sentences, imposed on people in positions of authority. "The message is that directors and senior managers can no longer afford to be lax about health and safety." Eversheds partner Kevin Elliot said: "It will mean major changes in penalties businesses and individuals may face." You can buy these customisable Health & Safety Templates here for £35. Why pay a professional £3,500 ( Postal delivery CD Box not included) |