Do’s and Don’ts During an HSE Inspection in the UK

An unannounced visit from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) can catch even the most organised businesses off guard. Whether you're in construction, manufacturing, or education, knowing how to handle an HSE inspection calmly and professionally can make all the difference.

Not adhering to the proper protocol may trigger alarms, even if your workplace is safe in general. In this article, I have outlined some key do's and don'ts so you and your staff will be prepared to respond effectively in the event of an inspection.

Do's

●       Stay Calm and Cooperative

Be respectful and professional in dealing with the inspector. Greet them, identify them, and inquire what they are there to do.

●       Inform Key Personnel

Alert your site manager or health & safety lead straight away. Inspectors should be followed by someone with authority and awareness of your systems.

●       Give Access and Documentation

Prepare to offer your risk assessments, training records, maintenance registers, and safety procedures. Ensure they are current.

●       Take Notes During the Inspection

Note what's being inspected and any remarks made by the inspector. This allows you to follow up afterwards and address any issues.

●       Ask for Clarification if Necessary

If the inspector identifies a possible problem, question it. It is necessary to know what's being pointed out and why.

Don'ts

●       Don't Be Defensive

Don't argue or make excuses. It is better to listen, note down, and address concerns coolly if necessary.

●       Don't Conceal Issues

Transparency is essential. Attempting to hide hazards or non-compliance will only make the situation worse and can result in legal issues.

●       Don't Leave Inspectors Unattended

Have someone from your team stay with the inspector to respond to questions and offer background.

●       Don't Guess Answers

If you don't know, tell them so - then come back later with the facts. Guessing might muddy the water or draw suspicion.

A Smart Approach Starts Before the Visit

Although it's great to know how to handle the inspection itself, the best preparation takes place long in advance of an inspector visit. Routine site visits, recent training, and good housekeeping can make a huge difference to the outcome of an HSE inspection.

If you're not certain if your workplace is prepared, we're here to help. Our consultancy services are dedicated to identifying compliance gaps before regulators do - building your confidence and peace of mind.

Call us now to schedule a pre-inspection audit or learn more about creating a safer, compliant workplace.