HC Deb 24 June 2002 vol 387 cc663-4W
Hywel Williams

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many regulations which cause additional burdens for small businesses have been introduced in the field of health and safety in the last three years. [61143]

Mr. Jamieson

During the period June 1999 to June 2002, 55 statutory instruments containing regulations relating to health and safety have been introduced. Not all of these will affect all firms, of whatever size; much depends on the nature of the business and the risks it creates. Some new legislation may indeed reduce burdens on small firms by simplifying existing legal requirements.

Hywel Williams

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps his Department intend to take to reduce administrative burdens in the field of health and safety for small businesses; and if he will make a statement. [61142]

Mr. Jamieson

HSE has long recognised the special needs of smaller businesses and the importance of ensuring that administrative requirements placed on them in the field of health and safety are kept to the minimum, while ensuring that they recognise and act on their duties to protect the safety and health of their own workers and others.

HSE consults widely on proposed regulations and guidance, although it recognises the need to ensure that small businesses are properly involved in developing its policies and practices and is currently looking at a variety of ways that will make it easier for small businesses to communicate with them.

Many of the problems come from incorrect interpretation of regulations, companies often believing that they need to take more complicated action than is actually necessary or not understanding what needs to be done. HSE, therefore, produces extensive guidance on most of its regulations, much of it targeted towards small firms.

HSE also continually looks for innovative ways to broaden its support to small businesses. For example, a pilot grant scheme is due to be launched shortly to provide some financial assistance for small businesses to access health and safety mentoring and training.