Failure to Comply with Insurance Regulations Can Lead to Punitive Action, Says HSE
According to Andrew Saunders, HSE Inspector, the provisions of Employers’ Liability Compulsory Insurance Act 1969 makes it mandatory for all employers to have an Employers Liability Compulsory Insurance (ELCI) certificate and to produce the same when required.
In the present case, Dipak Kumar Kantial Solanki, a retailer who owns a shop named Melbourn stores in Melbourn, could not produce the current ELCI certificate when demanded by the Environmental Health Officer from South Cambridgeshire District Council, who visited his retail store in April 2009. HSE stated that even after being served a notice, Solanki was not able to produce the certificate.
Solanki pleaded guilty of violating Section 1(1) of the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 before Cambridge Magistrates’ Court and he was asked to pay £500 as fine and £539.60 as costs for failing to produce the certificate.
This case has led Health and Safety Executive to issue a strict warning to all employers, urging them to abide by the insurance regulations and provide adequate insurance to all employees. HSE has also stated that in case of non-compliance, there will be severe action taken against the employer.
Saunders further stated that this insurance certificate is very important because it ensures that the employee is covered against any accident that might occur at the workplace. Where the employer does not abide by these rules, the employees are greatly affected, as they are not insured against accidents or ill health.
Health and safety training is essential; for managers and supervisors IOSH training is designed to provide you with the knowledge to manage safely and effectively in compliance with both your organisation
