Yes — even small vehicle repair garages are still expected to manage health and safety risks appropriately. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers have a duty to protect employees and others who may be affected by workshop activities.
In the UK, a written Health and Safety Policy is generally a legal requirement where a business employs five or more people. However, even where fewer employees are involved, small garages are still expected to have suitable safety arrangements in place and many choose to keep a written policy as part of their overall health and safety management.
Even smaller garages can benefit from having a clear written policy because it helps demonstrate that health and safety has been considered and provides a structured approach to managing workshop risks such as vehicle lifting, hazardous substances, fire safety and equipment use.
You can view the full range of our ‘Health and Safety Policies’ here