Posted By Gill S Having just decided not to return to work post baby, I am now keen to help out a little voluntarily to keep my skills (nebosh dip, construction) current and avoid being a baby bore! Has anyone done this on a voluntary basis and if so, how have you gone about the legalities - i.e. 'competent person', helping out/advising as opposed to 'doing it for them' and the lack of my own PI insurance. Any advice/previous experiences would be gratefully received.

Posted By Gill S Paul I was afraid of that! Thanks for your input Gill

Posted By David Brede Hi Gill, Whilst Paul has a point you also have the basis of a good defence, i.e. by not being paid or receiving other remuneration there is no contract between yourself and the organisations or individuals you are advising. So by establishing that your advice is freely given and that you accept no liability you should avoid any consequences. It would be worthwhile to speak to a lawyer who specialises in contract law to find a suitable phrase to qualify any advice that you give as to the basis that it has been given. Regards David

Posted By Gill S David Many thanks for the advice - as I suspected, it is not a completely cut and dried issue - but then again, what in H&S is ever!! Paul's advice runs with my usual standpoint in this field of 'if you're not sure - you're liable' but it's good to know that there may be an alternative. Many thanks to you and to all who have taken the time to give me some pointers Gill