Why now is the time to go above and beyond when it comes to health and safety compliance

In today’s regulatory climate, simply being compliant with health and safety legislation is no longer enough. With updated sentencing guidelines, an increasingly proactive Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and heightened public expectations, UK businesses are under more scrutiny than ever before.

Remaining compliant is the legal minimum. Staying ahead of the curve is what protects your people, your reputation and your bottom line.

The Sentencing Council’s 2025 Update: What You Need to Know

In June 2025, the Sentencing Council introduced revised guidance for health and safety offences. One of the most significant changes is the way Very Large Organisations (VLOs) are treated. For businesses with turnover well above £50 million, courts are now encouraged to apply significantly higher fines than previously recommended.

This means that if your organisation falls into the VLO category, you could face seven-figure penalties for health and safety failings. These penalties may apply even if no serious harm occurred. Smaller businesses are also seeing tighter enforcement and higher expectations for risk control.

The Hidden Costs of Health and Safety Failures

A fine is just the beginning. The wider impact of a safety breach can be devastating:

• Loss of client confidence and contracts

• Business interruption during investigations or legal proceedings

• Damage to brand and reputation

• Increased insurance premiums

• Reduced employee morale and retention

• Long-term revenue decline

Public perception plays a growing role in business success. A serious incident, especially one that gains media attention, can take years to recover from, if at all.

What Businesses Should Be Doing Now

Health and safety needs to be built into the DNA of your organisation. Whether you’re a growing SME or a national company, the message is clear: don’t wait for an incident or inspection to take action.

Here are practical steps you can take today:

1. Review your risk profileAre there areas of your operation that have changed or expanded recently? Make sure your risk assessments reflect current working conditions.

2. Invest in training and upskillingEmployees who understand hazards, procedures and responsibilities are not only safer but more confident and productive.

3. Keep your documentation up to dateWell-maintained records of risk assessments, training, maintenance and incident reporting are vital in demonstrating compliance and due diligence.

4. Audit against best practice, not just legislationGo beyond legal minimums. Use recognised standards and sector-specific guidance to benchmark your performance.

5. Seek expert supportIf you’re unsure whether your current arrangements are fit for purpose, or if you fall under the VLO category, speak to a specialist. Early advice can save time, money and reputational damage later.

The Bottom Line

Proactive health and safety management is no longer optional. It is a key part of business resilience, risk mitigation and leadership.

Whether you need a full compliance review, help with documentation or training support, our team is here to help. We work with businesses of all sizes to identify risks, improve systems and embed a safety-first culture that protects your people and your brand.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you stay ahead of the game.