WHY IS THIS INDEX REQUIRED?

This health and safety file index forms part of the health and safety file contents and allows details of the health and safety file to be recorded and stored.

WHY IS THIS INDEX IMPORTANT?

This health and safety file index is important because it will include the health and safety file contents list and facilitate the location of required contents and documents contained within the health and safety file. These details can be then used to plan and carry out actions to resolve any issues identified affecting safety concerns in the workplace aligned to the health and safety file. This health and safety file index also provides evidence to an inspector that the correct applicable health and safety file contents are addressed concerning workplace safety concerns, meaning the employer is being compliant in checking the workplace and proactive in identifying new concerns and resolving these. In cases where a safety issue may occur, the health and safety file may be important as evidence to show workplace safety concerns are managed, where legal concerns or financial claims may be involved. 

VALIDITY

The health and safety file index must be kept in the health and safety file and made available to any interested parties who may wish to see it or refer to it at a later time.

HOW DOES THIS WORK AS A CONTROL MEASURE?

In the hierarchy of controls, this health and safety file index forms part of the administrative control measures which should be in place to ensure that health and safety file contents are current and valid and applicable to the business.