Increased risk of custodial sentence under new health and safety guidelines

Recent figures have shown that since the introduction of the new health and safety guidelines, not only has there been a large increase in the number and size of fines. But the number of custodial sentences for health and safety offences has also increased dramatically.

Since the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work act in 1974 up until January 2016, less than 190 individuals have received and immediate or suspended custodial sentence for health and safety offences, which is an average of under 5 per year.

However recent figures show that between February and September of 2016, 23 individuals have received an immediate or suspended custodial sentence for health and safety offences.

The majority of the offenders sentenced since February received suspended sentences, however six individuals were given immediate prisons sentences.
This increase is believed to be as a result of the guidelines lowering the threshold for custodial sentences.

How we can help 

Metro Safety have a large team of qualified specialists who can offer a wide range of services across multiple disciplines including a wide range of H&S services. We can also provide consultancy advice to meet your specific requirements, helping you remain compliant and protect you again potential prosecution. To find out more about our services call us on 0845 058 9999 or email an enquiry.