HSE makes cost recovery dispute process fully independent

All disputes will now be considered by a lawyer – acting as chair – and two others who have practical experience of management of health and safety.

HSE made the change following a six week public consultation. Previously, disputes were considered by a panel with two HSE members and one independent.

A spokesman for HSE said: “We have consistently said that we would keep the dispute process under review, and are making sensible changes following the consultation and in light of four years’ experience of running fee for intervention.

“The revised process also provides greater clarity about the information which HSE will give to businesses to allow them to make appropriate representations to the dispute panel.”

Revised guidance on the new process has been published on HSE’s website.