Warning over bogus mail shots
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is urging publicans to look out for bogus mail shots from a company called the Health and Safety Registration Enforcement Division.
The letter informs businesses that in order to meet current health and safety law requirements, employers must send £199 for registration if the business is compliant and £299 if the business is non-compliant.
But the Health and Safety Registration Enforcement Division is not connected to the HSE in any way and if licensees receive this letter they should contact either the HSE or the police.
Andrew Mowlah, head of research at the Forum of Private Business (FPB), said: "This seems to be the latest in a long line of scams aimed at businesses.
"As with similar attempts to defraud businesses in the past, we advise extreme caution when dealing with any unsolicited contact from companies purporting to offer services for a fee.
"Business owners should, of course, be aware that health and safety compliance couldn't be achieved simply by filling in a form and paying a fixed fee.
"Businesses need to be assured they have taken measures to ensure the safety of their workforce, customers and the general public when carrying out their business."
Justin McCracken, the HSE's deputy directory general (operations), said: "The Health and Safety Registration Enforcement Division is not connected to HSE and is not an official body.
"Businesses should ignore any approach from this firm, and any similar offers."
Have you received one of these letters? If so call the news desk on 020 8565 4458, or email arjf@gurchoyvpna.pbz.
