Recently there has been a notable increase in the amount of prosecutions brought against companies where breaches of health and safety legislation have occurred. Companies can face enormous fines while directors can face disqualification and even prison.

On 6th April 2008 the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 came into force. For the first time, companies and organisations can be found guilty of the new offence of corporate manslaughter as a result of serious management failures resulting in a gross breach of a duty of care.

It is incumbent on all employers to do everything reasonably practicable to comply with health and safety legislation and thus to ensure safety in the workplace.

Where breaches do occur prosecutions can, sometimes, be avoided. It is essential for a company to act swiftly and compassionately if they are to take advantage of the discretion available to inspectors.

It is, therefore, crucial that you are properly advised as convictions can have devastating consequences, generating adverse publicity and harsh financial penalties.

From advice on training and compliance through to inquests, investigations and prosecutions, Burrows Bussin has the necessary skills and experience to protect your reputation.