IOSH Understanding Responsibilities 1

Question 1

What is the full title of the main UK health and safety legislation?

Accepted Answer

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

Answer

The full title is 'The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974'. The 'etc.' is part of the official title and refers to the fact that it covers related matters beyond just health and safety, including welfare and the control of dangerous substances.

Question 2

Under Section 2 of the HSWA 1974, what is the employer's general duty?

Accepted Answer

To ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all employees

Answer

Section 2(1) states that it shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all their employees. This is qualified by 'reasonably practicable', not absolute.

Question 3

What duties do employees have under Section 7 of the HSWA 1974?

Accepted Answer

To take reasonable care of themselves and others, and to cooperate with their employer on safety matters

Answer

Section 7 requires employees to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and others who may be affected by their acts or omissions, and to cooperate with their employer so far as is necessary to enable the employer to comply with legal duties.

Question 4

What does Section 3 of the HSWA 1974 require?

Accepted Answer

Employers to conduct their undertaking so as to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, the safety of non-employees

Answer

Section 3 extends the employer's duty beyond employees to include other people who may be affected by the employer's undertaking — such as contractors, visitors, customers, and members of the public.

Question 5

What is the purpose of Section 8 of the HSWA 1974?

Accepted Answer

It makes it an offence to intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided for safety

Answer

Section 8 states that no person shall intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health, safety or welfare. This applies to everyone, not just employees, and covers things like fire extinguishers, guards, and PPE.

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Understanding Responsibilities 1