Understanding RIDDOR: What It Is, How It Affects You, and What You Need to Know
Workplace safety is a critical concern for employers and employees alike. In the UK, the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that workplaces remain safe and that incidents are properly documented and addressed.What is RIDDOR?
RIDDOR is a set of regulations under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. It requires employers, self-employed individuals, and people in control of work premises to report and keep records of:- Work-related accidents that cause death.
- Work-related accidents that cause certain serious injuries.
- Diagnosed cases of certain industrial diseases.
- Certain dangerous occurrences.
How Does RIDDOR Affect Me?
Whether you’re an employer, employee, or self-employed, RIDDOR affects you in different ways:For Employers:
- You are legally required to report incidents.
- You must keep records for at least three years.
- Failure to comply can lead to fines or prosecution.
For Employees:
- Ensures workplace safety monitoring.
- Leads to investigations and improvements.
For the Self-Employed:
- You must report incidents related to your work.
- You must report incidents affecting others.
What Needs to Be Reported Under RIDDOR?
Not every incident is reportable. RIDDOR specifies:- Deaths
- Specified Injuries
- Occupational Diseases
- Dangerous Occurrences
How to Report Under RIDDOR
- Date, time and location
- Personal details
- Incident description
