SAFETY GOVERNANCE
Safety is a decision gate, not a disclaimer.
The framework below describes the minimum governance principles for practical work. It is not a substitute for an activity-specific risk assessment, training, supervision, licensing or professional advice.
Level 0 — Desk research
Research, reading, coding and analysis with no material physical hazard.
Level 1 — Low risk
Ordinary practical activity with proportionate precautions and no specialist authority requirement.
Level 2 — Controlled
Requires documented assessment, suitable controls, competence and an appropriate environment.
Level 3 — Specialist
Requires specialist facilities, training, supervision, permissions or professional oversight as applicable.
Minimum practical record
For controlled or specialist activities, the private record should identify the activity, date, risk assessment reference, competence/training, equipment, PPE where appropriate, location, supervision, legal/authorisation checks, emergency arrangements, result, incidents/near misses and review decision.
HSE guidance should be checked for applicable workplace hazards and substances. For chemicals, the safety data sheet is an input to assessment and does not replace the assessment itself.