Compliance expertise from OE Services
Management systems provider OE Services has emphasised the potential consequences for businesses of failing to meet the many compliance standards required of them in a heavily regulated landscape.
“Acts of parliament, regulations, standards, franchise agreements, contracts, insurances are just some of the areas that demand evidence of compliance,” said the company.
“Penalties for non-compliance may involve fines, custodial sentences, suspension of insurance cover. Health and safety offences are criminal offences.
“There are literally hundreds of regulations that demand you record and maintain policies, records and risk assessments, as evidence of compliance.
“Many demand third-party verification, e.g. audit of financial records, statutory inspection of items such as electrical installations, gas equipment, lifting equipment, plus many more.
The legal responsibility for compliance always lies with the employer – i.e. the directors. All this administration costs time and money.
“Take on board that non-compliance is not an insurable cost. The most efficient methodology to address compliance management is to identify all the applicable requirements – ‘I didn’t know’ is never a defence.”
OE Services advises that administrative requirements are systemised – for example accounting, VAT, tax, HR, health and safety, maintenance – and intervals identified (whether daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly etc) for the various required actions, with training provided for those to whom these are delegated.
“Set up a defined agenda for regular reporting across the various categories. Define what actions will be taken to rectify any non-conformances – by whom, when, and how that will be documented, including preventive actions.
“We have been producing compliance systems for major groups and single-site businesses in the sector, for over 25 years, addressing H&S, Quality ISO9001, Environmental ISO14001. We do not produce HR or financial systems.
“Our focus is ensuring you are aware of the compliance requirements applicable to your business, and have a practical systematic approach and evidence of compliance in place.
If you need practical advice and/or a compliance system, just get in touch.”
