What you can expect from our Officers

We are committed to fair enforcement policies and procedures, and aim to carry out our work in a practicable and consistent way. We believe in a thriving national and local economy, and the need to protect the health of the community and its quality of life. As prevention is always better than cure, we will work hard to advise and assist you to comply with legal requirements.

We hope you find this information helpful. If at any time you feel you have been treated unfairly or improperly, please do not hesitate to contact us.

What am I entitled to expect?

a courteous manner
to be shown identification
feedback at the end of the visit
a clear distinction between what is needed to comply with the law, and what is being recommended as good practice
advice and requirements put clearly and simply, and confirmed in writing on request
that any action taken will be proportionate to the risks
to be given the reasons in writing (on request) for any action you are asked to take
to be given the opportunity to discuss the circumstances of the case, and if possible resolve points of difference
a reasonable time to meet requirements, except where immediate action is necessary
where immediate action is necessary a written explanation (within 5 working days) of why such action was necessary
to be told the procedures for appealing against the action
to be told the name and telephone number and contact point of the the officer, and the officer’s manager
o deal with properly trained, efficient and professional officers

What powers do officers of the Public Protection Team have?

In the case of business these powers may include:

the right to enter and inspect at all reasonable hours without giving notice (though notice may be given where the officer thinks it appropriate)
the right to take photographs, samples, and to inspect records
the right not to be obstructed in the course of their duties
the right to seize items, eg unfit food or dangerous machinery
the power to serve notices or recommend prosecution
he right to take immediate action, if required, in the interests of health, safety or environmental protection, or to prevent evidence being destroyed

In any event the officer must tell you what powers they have, under what legislation, and why it is necessary to exercise that power.

What can I do if I think the outcome is not fair?

If you are unhappy with the action taken you should first contact the officer’s manager to see if can resolve the problem informally (telephone numers are shown at the bottom of the page)
If disagreement remains and you wish to make a formal complaint you can be assured that we will:
- take the complaint seriously
- respond to your complaint as soon as possible, usually within 10 working days
- in complex cases send an acknowledgement followed by a full response within 20 working days
- be helpful and courteous

In the case of formal action, eg the service of a notice, you will normally have the right of appeal to a Magistrates Court, or Employment Tribunal for health and safety issues.