What duties do self-employed individuals have regarding safety?

Self-employed individuals have a clear obligation to ensure their own safety, which is reflected in the duties outlined under health and safety legislation. Being self-employed means that they are responsible for managing their working environment and practices to mitigate any risks that they might face. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing appropriate safety measures, and ensuring that they have the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to maintain a safe working environment.

The emphasis on personal responsibility for safety is crucial because self-employed individuals do not typically have an employer overseeing their work conditions. Therefore, they must actively manage their health and safety practices to protect themselves as well as any others who may be affected by their work. This foundational understanding is essential in fostering a culture of safety and compliance within the workplace, regardless of the size or nature of the business.