Fee For Intervention (FFI) & HSE Inspections – H&S Bulletin April 2026
Fee For Intervention (FFI) & HSE Inspections
Fee for Intervention (FFI) applies when an HSE inspector believes there has been a serious (material) breach of health and safety law. It allows the HSE to recover the cost of the time spent identifying what’s gone wrong and supporting the business to put it right.
The HSE FFI rate has recently increased from £174.00 to £188.00 per hour.
If an HSE Inspector Turns Up – What to Do
HSE inspectors can visit without notice. Their role is to prevent harm and ensure legal compliance.
When the inspector arrives:
- Ask to see their official identification.
- Cooperate fully and remain calm and professional.
- Ensure a responsible manager accompanies them.
During the visit, inspectors may:
- Inspect work activities and equipment.
- Speak to workers and managers.
- Ask to see safety documentation (e.g. risk assessments, procedures).
- Take photographs or notes.
The inspector will want to know about:
- the main health and safety issues in your workplace
- your own knowledge or experience of health and safety
You must not obstruct the inspector, and employees should be allowed to speak freely if asked
At the end of the visit:
- The inspector will explain any concerns and required actions.
- Outcomes may range from verbal advice to formal written notification.
If an inspector gives you a notification of contravention (NoC) after their visit, you’ll have to pay the FFI. The NoC must include:
- the law that the inspector considers has been broken
- the reason(s) for their opinion
- notification that a fee is payable to HSE
Where an inspector simply gives you advice, either verbal or written, you won’t have to pay anything for this advice.
Please inform your H&S Consultant if you have had a visit by the HSE as soon as possible.
If you would like help in implementing or further advice this, please get in touch.