CH255505 | How to do a compliance check: using inspection powers: during a visit: personal safety

Personal safety is of paramount importance, especially when working away from the office at business premises. You should:

• ensure you are familiar with your team’s risk-assessment and safe working practice

• ask about and observe the health and safety requirements of the premises being visited

• exercise care and forethought to avoid placing yourself at risk

• tell colleagues where you are visiting

• withdraw from any potentially dangerous situation for example, if there is verbal abuse or the threat of physical abuse or the premises are unsafe and immediately report any incident

To prevent problems arising when dealing with the public:

• avoid being drawn into arguments

• consider carrying a mobile phone

• consider carrying a personal alarm

For further advice on personal safety go to Service Central and search ‘Personal safety'.