What Happens During a Health and Safety Inspection in Ireland?

Many small business owners feel anxious about the possibility of a health and safety inspection. Often, this is simply because they are unsure what inspectors look for or what is expected of them.

Health and safety inspections in Ireland are carried out by inspectors from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). Their role is to ensure businesses are complying with health and safety legislation and protecting employees and others in the workplace.

Understanding what happens during an inspection helps remove uncertainty and allows businesses to prepare confidently.

Why inspections happen

Inspections may occur for several reasons, including:

• Routine inspection programmes

• Following a workplace incident or complaint

• Industry-specific inspection campaigns

• High-risk work activities

Many inspections are routine and not triggered by any wrongdoing.

Inspectors aim to assess whether appropriate safety systems are in place.

What inspectors typically ask for

Inspectors will usually review key health and safety documents, including:

Health and Safety Statement. This outlines how your business manages health and safety and identifies workplace risks.

Risk Assessments, Inspectors will check whether hazards have been identified and appropriate control measures implemented.

Training Records, Evidence that employees have received appropriate safety training.

Incident Records, Records of accidents, incidents, and how they were investigated.

Safety Procedures, Evidence that safe systems of work are in place.

Inspectors may also walk through the workplace to observe activities and verify that safety measures are being followed.

What inspectors are looking for

Inspectors are not expecting perfection. They are looking for evidence that the business is managing health and safety responsibly.

This includes:

• Awareness of workplace hazards

• Appropriate documentation

• Practical safety controls

• Evidence that safety is actively managed

Businesses that can demonstrate structure and awareness are generally viewed positively.

Possible outcomes of an inspection

In many cases, inspectors will provide guidance and may recommend improvements.

In some cases, they may issue:

• Written advice

• Improvement notices

• Prohibition notices (in serious situations)

Most small businesses that make genuine efforts to manage safety do not experience serious enforcement action.

Preparation is the key to confidence

The purpose of health and safety documentation is not simply compliance. It provides structure and clarity, ensuring businesses can operate safely and confidently.

When the correct foundations are in place, inspections become straightforward and manageable.

Many businesses find that once their system is properly structured, inspections are far less stressful than expected.

Supporting small businesses across Ireland

ISOPOINT helps small businesses implement practical, compliant health and safety systems aligned with Irish legislation.

Our approach equips business owners with the structure, documentation, and confidence to manage health and safety within their own business.

If you would like to ensure your business is properly prepared, you can book a free consultation: