Duty or not duty?

I have found myself in a similar dilemma and usually work on the basis of what the law requires and what my conscience requires. Firstly, the Health & Safety At Work Act applies to a work environment, therefore if I am not working for the client, contractor or designer I am not obliged to do anything.

However, if it is a matter of public safety then as a member of the public I feel I have a duty of care to notify the contractor or relevant authorities. I would not be afraid of involving the HSE as it is the few that give the many a bad reputation and there are way too few HSE inspectors.

I also feel that as professionals we have a duty to inform those builders who do not have the same access to H&S training. Recently a neighbour was having the fascias and soffits replaced when I spotted the installer using an extension ladder horizontally supported on two other ladders. I challenged him and informed him that he should be using the proper equipment. He was very receptive to what I said, but also pointed out that he would need to charge the householder another £200 for him to hire the correct equipment. He added that he had 20 years’ experience as a steeplejack, so having imparted my wisdom I felt I had discharged my duty of care. There was no risk to the general public so I did not take it any further.