The Legal Position
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, you are only legally required to have a written health and safety policy if you employ 5 or more people.
So if you're a sole trader working alone — you don't strictly need one on paper.
However, there's a big difference between what's legally required and what's commercially expected.
When Clients and Contractors Ask for It
Even if you're a one-person band, many principal contractors and commercial clients will ask to see:
- A written Health & Safety Policy
- Your risk assessments
- Evidence of competence (CSCS card, trade qualifications)
- Public liability insurance
Without these, you may be turned away from site — regardless of what the law says.
Why It's Worth Having One Anyway
A simple, professional H&S policy:
- Shows clients you take safety seriously
- Can help you win contracts that require pre-qualification (PQQ)
- Demonstrates your commitment if something goes wrong
- Takes less than an hour to produce with the right tools
What Should It Include?
Even a basic sole-trader policy should cover:
- Your statement of intent (commitment to safe working)
- Your responsibilities as the self-employed person
- Arrangements for key risks (working at height, manual handling, plant)
- Review date
The Bottom Line
- Legally required if you have 5+ employees — yes
- Commercially expected on most professional sites — absolutely
- Worth having regardless — without question
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