What do I do if I get an HSE improvement notice?

Receiving an HSE (Health and Safety Executive) improvement notice is serious — but it's not a criminal conviction, and it doesn't have to become one. Here's what to do:

• The legal provision you've allegedly breached
• The reasons why the inspector believes there's a breach
• What you need to do to remedy it
• The deadline for compliance (at least 21 days from the date of issue)

Step 2: Decide whether to appeal or comply You have 21 days from the date of the notice to appeal to an Employment Tribunal (not a court). If you appeal, the notice is suspended while the tribunal considers your case. Appeals are on the merits — you're saying the inspector was wrong.

If you're going to comply (which is usually the right course), focus your energy on meeting the deadline.

Step 3: Take the required action Document everything you do to address the notice. Take photos, keep records of remedial work, and update your risk assessments. If you need more time, contact the HSE — they can sometimes extend the deadline if you're engaging in good faith.

Step 4: Notify the HSE when compliant Once you've complied, the notice is satisfied. Keep your compliance evidence.

What if you don't comply? Failing to comply with an improvement notice without appeal is a criminal offence. You can be prosecuted, fined (unlimited), and in serious cases imprisoned.

After the notice: Use the notice as a trigger to review your broader health and safety compliance. Improvement notices often come with further scrutiny if the HSE has concerns about your overall approach.