In Plain English
AI-generatedThe Health and Safety (Offences) Bill is a small, technical measure that would amend section 33 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. It aims to update how certain health and safety offences are defined or punished. The bill is currently being debated in the House of Commons at its second reading.
Key Points
- It amends section 33 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to adjust offences and penalties related to health and safety breaches.
- The changes will affect who can be charged and how offences are prosecuted under the Act.
- Originating in the Commons, the bill is at the 2nd reading and will proceed to committee scrutiny and subsequent readings if it progresses.
- The bill could influence enforcement by bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and local authorities, and impact employers, managers and safety professionals.
- The exact changes will be set out in the text of the Bill as it moves through Parliament.
Progress
The bill is at the 2nd reading in the Commons. After this stage, it would typically move to committee for detailed examination, then to further readings and the Lords if it passes.
Who is affected?
Employers and business owners across sectorsManagers and supervisors with health and safety dutiesWorkers and employeesSafety professionals and advisersHealth and Safety Executive (HSE) and local authoritiesLegal professionals dealing with regulatory offencesTrade unions representing workers
Generated 21 February 2026
