Write a health and safety policy for your business

The statement of general policy sets out your general approach, objectives and the arrangements for managing health and safety in your business. It is a unique document that says who does what, when and how. There are no set rules on what you should include in your statement, but it is often only one page long. You must sign and date the statement.

What to include the statement of general policy

Most statements of general policy will state:

• your commitment to keeping your employees, customers and anyone else affected by your business' activities safe
• who has ultimate responsibility for health and safety in the business
• which staff have specific responsibilities - including the name or job title of the person in charge of health and safety
• your commitment to engaging and consulting with employees on day-to-day health and safety conditions and provide advice and supervision on occupational health
• that you understand the legal duties you have to provide a safe working environment, safe work equipment and safe methods of work
• what organisation and arrangements will be made to support the policy