Two companies fined for failure to notify HSE

HSE have successfully prosecuted two companies after they repeatedly breached the requirement to notify HSE when working with high hazard infectious organisms. On inspection, HSE inspectors identified several failings including key safety equipment not being adequately maintained. One of the companies not only failed to comply but chose to continue working out of compliance for commercial gain. 

The companies were fined £52,000 and £35,000 for breaches of The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. 

There are various other work activities where it is a legal requirement to notify HSE of the activity before it takes place (e.g. construction projects, working with ionising radiation, asbestos work). HSE has shown that it will take enforcement action where companies fail to notify.