EHO’s and HSE INSPECTORS

Local council Environmental Health Officers (EHO’s) and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Inspectors have a number of enforcement powers. These include:

• Entering premises at any reasonable time (accompanied by the Police if required).
• Taking samples and photographs.
• Taking witness statements.
• Taking copies of documentation.
• Serving a Hygiene Enforcement Notice.
• Serving a Hygiene Prohibition Notice.
• Issuing a caution under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).
• Prosecuting a business through the Courts.

BREACHES IN FOOD SAFETY AND HEALTH & SAFETY

Breaches in food safety and health & safety are criminal offences.

A Magistrate Court can now issue an unlimited fine and impose a custodial sentence of up to 12 months.

A Crown Court can issue an unlimited fine and impose a custodial sentence of up to 2 years.