Most small businesses can’t justify a full-time health and safety manager. But the law still requires you to have access to competent health and safety advice. That’s where this service comes in.

Under Regulation 7 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, every employer must appoint one or more competent persons to assist with health and safety. If no one in your business has the right knowledge and experience, you need to bring that in from outside.

We provide competent person support on a retained basis — you get qualified advice when you need it, without the overhead of employing someone.

Service levels

What’s Included

Our competent person service typically covers:

• Named competent person appointment (we provide a letter confirming this for your records)
• Access to advice by phone or email during business hours
• Annual review of your core health and safety documentation
• Notification of relevant legislative changes that affect your business
• Support with incident investigation if something goes wrong
• Assistance with preparing for external audits or client H&S questionnaires

Retainer packages start from £95 per month. Bespoke arrangements available for larger or more complex businesses.

Not sure what level of support you need? Call Craig on 07977 908977 for a straightforward conversation. No sales pitch — just an honest view of what’s proportionate for your business.

Competent Person FAQ

Q: What does ‘competent person’ actually mean in law?

A: Regulation 7 defines competent as having sufficient training, experience, knowledge and other qualities to enable them to assist properly in undertaking the measures required. There is no single qualification that automatically confers competence — it depends on the context of your business and the risks involved.

Q: Can I appoint someone from inside my business?

A: Yes, if they have the right knowledge and experience for your level of risk. For many small businesses, particularly those with higher-risk activities, using an external specialist is more straightforward and more defensible.

Q: What’s the difference between this and just calling when I have a question?

A: A retained service means you have a named person available regularly, your documentation is reviewed annually, and you’re kept informed of changes. Ad hoc calls are fine for one-off questions but don’t provide the continuity a formal arrangement does.

Q: Is there a minimum contract period?

A: For "Competent Person" retainer services, the contract is for a minimum initial term of 12 months. After this period, the agreement requires [3] months' written notice to cancel.