HSA will carry out 10% more workplace inspections in 2025

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has published its Programme of Work for 2025. The annual programme sets out plans and activities which will contribute to the strategic priorities laid out in the HSA’s Strategy Statement 2025 – 2027. 

Key takeaways from the Programme of Work for 2025 

One of the key takeaways from this document is the announcement that the HSA is planning to conduct 11,000 occupational health and safety inspections this year, a 10% increase from the 10,000 inspections carried out previously.  

Additionally, the Authority is planning to carry out 900 inspections related to the Chemicals Act and Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road Regulations, an increase from 650 previously. This brings the number of ‘traditional’ Health & Safety inspections proposed for this year to a total of 11,900. 

As mentioned in the HSA’s Strategy Statement 2025 – 2027, one of the main areas of focus this year will be the monitoring of high-risk workplace activities, including hazards associated with chemical, physical, biological agents and ergonomics. In terms of high-risk industries, the Authority plans to focus on the health, social care, agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors.  

Finally, there will be an increased focus on workplace health and wellbeing, with attention placed on work-related musculoskeletal disorders, occupational cancers, psychosocial health at work, health surveillance and cardiovascular health. 

Preparing for an HSA inspection 

When preparing for a Health & Safety inspection, you should ensure that: 

• You have carried out sufficient risk assessments, particularly if you have made any changes to the workplace since your last review. Risk assessments must be reviewed at least once a year, or whenever relevant changes happen in your organisation. 
• You have a robust Safety Statement in place, as well as any other relevant Health & Safety documentation. Safety Statements must also be reviewed once a year, or whenever relevant changes happen in your organisation. 
• You have a physical copy of your Safety Statement, and your employees are aware of its location.  
• You have made detailed records of any relevant Health & Safety procedures. 
• You have a safety management system in place.  
• You have reviewed the results of your last Health & Safety inspection and that you have rectified any issues or suggestions which arose.