Post Brexit: UK health and safety law?

The UK decision to leave the European Union has prompted the question of whether current EU regulations could be revoked immediately.

This is not the case. Many EU Health and Safety & Environmental directives have been transposed into UK Law so currently nothing changes until the UK government puts in place mechanisms for further deregulation. However, post Brexit, it is highly likely that the UK will have less influence in the development of further EU Law up to the time we leave the EU, which could be as long as two years.

Throughout the UK membership of the EU the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act (HASWA) has been in place and effective. Without doubt we should continue to apply our successful risk-based management systems. Many UK organisations will want to continue to work and trade within the EU and it will be in their interest to continue maintaining compliance. The UK has been a leader in influencing other EU nations and regulators in developing strong foundations for future health, safety and environmental laws.

IIRSM will continue to promote and actively support effective management of risk and the health, safety and environmental standards that provide protection and welfare standards of those they apply to.