Should a designated premises supervisor conduct risk assessments? Yes, a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) should play an active role in conducting or overseeing risk assessments for the licensed premises. While they may not always perform the assessments personally, they are responsible for ensuring that appropriate assessments are completed to comply with health, safety, and licensing regulations. Here’s why and how a DPS should be involved:
Legal Compliance: Under the Licensing Act 2003, a DPS is responsible for ensuring that the premises operate in line with licensing objectives, including public safety and the prevention of crime, disorder, and nuisance. Conducting regular risk assessments helps fulfill these legal obligations.
Identifying and Mitigating Risks: Risk assessments allow the DPS to identify potential hazards, such as overcrowding, fire risks, slips, trips, or incidents related to intoxicated individuals. By addressing these risks proactively, the DPS can reduce the likelihood of accidents and ensure a safer environment for staff and patrons.
Staff Training and Awareness: A DPS should ensure that staff are aware of identified risks and the procedures to mitigate them, such as evacuation plans, handling intoxicated patrons, or checking ID for age verification. This can be part of ongoing training and induction for new staff.
Insurance and Liability: Many insurers require documented risk assessments as part of their policies. In the event of an incident, having completed assessments demonstrates due diligence and can protect the DPS and the business from liability.
Regular Reviews: Risk assessments should be reviewed and updated regularly, especially when there are changes to the premises, new activities introduced, or changes in regulations. The DPS is responsible for ensuring that these reviews happen on schedule.
Should a designated premises supervisor conduct risk assessments?-Conclusion
While a DPS may delegate the actual task of conducting risk assessments to a competent person, they should stay informed about the results, take action to address identified risks, and ensure that staff understand and follow necessary safety procedures.
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