If your company has less than 5 employees you don't need a written health and safety policy but you must be able to demonstrate an understanding of health and safety legislation and how it applies to your business.

The Health and Safety at Work Act places a duty on employers who have five or more employees to have a written statement of their health and safety policy. An employer who has less must still be able to prove their commitment to health and safety. They must also prove they have a sound understanding of health and safety legislation as it applies to their business.

If you employ fewer than five people we recommend you complete An introduction to health and safety (IND G 259) a free guide from HSE books. While not a legal duty it provides evidence of your commitment and understanding of basic health and safety.