Disputed fee for intervention (FFI) cost recovery scheme invoices will now be considered by a fully
The fee for intervention (FFI) cost recovery scheme was introduced in October 2012 to move the cost of policing workplace health and safety from the public purse to businesses that break the law.
Under the scheme where an inspector visits a workplace but only issues verbal advice then there is no charge, however when serious health and safety failings in the workplace are identified and an inspector needs to write to the duty holder, then that duty holder has to pay the costs of the HSE visit.
Dutyholders may dispute a HSE decision if they disagree, which is then looked at by a panel. Originally the panel consisted of two HSE members and an independent person, and it was this biased approach which caused concern and following a six week public consultation has now been changed. The dispute panel which will consider all disputes will consist of a lawyer (acting as chair) and two others who have practical experience of management of health and safety. The revised process also provides greater clarity about the information which HSE will give to businesses to allow them to make appropriate representations to the dispute panel.
