A 'TOOL kit' to help small and medium sized businesses to comply with health and safety laws is now available from West Devon Borough Council.

The Safer Workplace Better Business pack aims to give extra support to new and existing businesses in meeting health and safety requirements.

The pack is most suited to catering premises, small hotels, retailers, care homes and offices, and has been produced in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive and other local authorities across Devon.

The 'tool kit' is split into various sections which can be completed individually, or the complete pack can be downloaded online now from the council's website.

Once completed, the pack will enable businesses to identify the key hazards in their workplace, introduce suitable controls, and have a documented system for health and safety management.

Health and safety procedures should be reviewed on a regular basis and updated where necessary, and this will be a useful aid in that process. Reviews should occur following an accident, changes in work practices, or where new equipment is introduced.

For more information, please call the borough council on 01822 813600 and ask for environmental health.