The Law

Even a childminder working at home is subject to The Health and Safety at Work Act etc 1974 and The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, Regulation 18" amongst other statutory requirements. Ignorance is no excuse in law. "Reasonably Practicable" measures must be in place to stop a finger trapping accident. If the hinge cavity is not been suitably risk assessed and shielded and a child in her/his care suffers crushed fingers the childminder would be negligent and accountable. Common Law and Section 3 of the act extends to those not employed such as children and visitors to the workplace.