Florist News

We have a health and safety officer coming next Wednesday to the shop !! They want to do an inspection Has anybody else had a visit before and what are the sort of things they will be looking for. Obviously we have a fire extinguisher and first aid box, rubber gloves, apron and goggles for washing vases with bleach, anti slip mat on the floor as you walk in and out, slippery when wet sign...trying to think of other things that they could pick up on..Help needed Thanks people

__________________
The best shop in Basingstoke: www.yourcountryflorist.co.uk

Nice that you got notice - ours just turned up! Apparently I could've told them that they had to make an appointment but surely that would look like I had something to hide. All was fine.

From other people that I know, they pick up on things like eletrics, whether sockets are overloaded etc, also fire exits need to be clearly marked with no obstructions. It's all common sense really, I believe they send you a list of things if you're not compliant and give you a certain date to get it done by.

Just had a look at my college notes from last year and we covered what you've listed as well as irritants from materials, clothing (appropriate footwear). Additionally is there a ventilated area for when working with leaf shine or spray paint; be aware of how to lift items correctly ie bend from the knees, assess how heavy an item is – may need assistance to lift

I'm sure you have it all covered as most of its common sense.

Do shops have to have PAT testing?

__________________
www.treesfloraldesign.co.uk

have you got a risk assessment? when we had the fire inpsector round he said mine was not 'adequate', apparently what they show you at college is not substantial enough, everyone has to have a separate fire risk assessment now as well. You can download a guide to it at www.hse.gov.uk

it has to be a written risk assessment if you have five or more employeees, but obviously if anything did ever happen, it would help for insurance purposes if it was written

__________________
Sarah Creating Bespoke Wedding Flowers Cheshire

If you have helium tanks I believe they have to be secured ours are strapped to the wall

We only have the front door there is no fire exit as such. One door in one door out, does that mean we are breaking regulations ?? Do I have to put a sign saying fire exit up ?? We only have 3 employees and 1 of those is part time doing 14 hours a week

__________________
The best shop in Basingstoke: www.yourcountryflorist.co.uk

I employ a company to do all our personel and health and safety for my staff and shop, and although it costs approx 150.00 per month it is money well spent, they keep you well informed and upto date with all the legal requirements in the industry.

yikes- £150 per month?!

oh my word, really? I just use t'interweb, business link, acas - all for free.

Haven't renewed my BFA membership yet, but all the above is covered under it as well as legal advice I think. Moooch cheaper. £1800 a year is quite a lot for your bottom line, surely?

where do you work Caroline?