HSE’s fee for intervention (FFI)
Introduced on 1st October 2012, this Fee known as the fee for intervention (FFI) allows the HSE to charge for its inspector’s time. Under the Health and Safety Regulations 2012, those who break health and safety laws are liable for recovery of HSE’s related costs including inspection, investigation and taking enforcement action. A Freedom of Information Act request has revealed that since October 2012, the HSE has roused £5,532,565 from the scheme.
These fees are being used rather than enforcement notices. Recent statistics published by the HSE indicate that fewer enforcement notices have been served in the last twelve months than in previous years. However, this isn't because inspectors are becoming more lenient; rather than issuing a notice, they are putting the business on the FFI clock, which could result in your company being charged £124 per hour.
To prevent a hefty bill, it is advised to check your work place before these visit to ensure all issues can be dealt with before the inspection. More details of how to prepare for the visits are in the brief risk management guide which can be found here.
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