What Is the Fee for Intervention?
The Fee for Intervention (FFI) scheme was introduced in 2012. Under it, the HSE can recover its costs from duty holders who are found to be in material breach of health and safety law.
As of 2024/25, the rate is £174 per hour.
That means a half-day inspection that uncovers problems could cost you £700 or more, before any fines or legal costs.
What Counts as a Material Breach?
A material breach is a contravention of health and safety law that the inspector considers serious enough to require written notification. Examples include:
- No suitable risk assessment for the work being carried out
- Inadequate control of silica dust or welding fumes
- Workers operating at height without edge protection
- Untrained workers using machinery
- No induction or site rules in place
- Asbestos-containing materials disturbed without a survey
Importantly, the HSE does not need to take further enforcement action for FFI to apply. Just finding a material breach is enough.
How Does the Billing Work?
- The inspector identifies a material breach during a visit
- They issue a written notification (the FFI letter)
- You receive an invoice for all HSE time from that point, including travel, report writing and follow-up
- You have a dispute process available if you disagree
How to Dispute an FFI Invoice
If you believe the HSE's findings were wrong, you can request a formal review within 21 days of receiving the invoice. Around 10-15% of disputes succeed, so it's worth challenging if you have grounds.
Practical Steps to Protect Yourself
- Ensure your risk assessments are written, site-specific and on site
- Brief all workers before they start and keep a record
- Display relevant safety information (first aid, emergency contacts, site rules)
- Check your equipment is inspected and records are up to date
- Never start a job involving asbestos risk without a survey
Keeping your paperwork in order is the single best defence against FFI. Site Safety UK helps you stay compliant without the admin headache.
