Posted By Phil Roberts Richard, I have recently subscribed to HSE Direct and I must say that I am impressed with the content, for what I regard as an extremely reasonable cost. If you would like some more information I would be glad to discuss it with you or even give you a sneak preview. You can either email me by using the link above or contact me on: 020 8391 9710. Phil

Posted By Laurie Richard I am also a recent subscriber and can recommend the service. It is possible to get a preview, but it involves a salesman coming to you and logging in at yout desk. Very limited value, but if you pick your questions, and check out some of the more obscure documents you will get a good idea of whether the system is suitable for you. Since the system is mainly confined to HSE material I would suggest that it may too restrictive for an LA, however, you know your own area best Laurie

Posted By Stuart Nagle I personally object to the concept of selling information, particularly as the imposition to comply is provided by the same source that is selling the information !! I believe that where legal requirements impose duties on persons/employers at work, the information needed to ensure compliance and provide a safe and healthy workplace should be provided, in essence, free of charge. The burden on employers budgets is increased year by year, and further demands for compliance increase in line with new and 'improved' demands. If, for example, I was the supplier of goods that were a necessity, and I was the only source of the supply, I would be considered a monopoly, investigated and possibly put out of business. Why then (with devils advocate hat on), should a Government, to who taxes are paid and holds sway over the requirements to comply, and indded force compliance, then be allowed to charge for information and services related to 'enforcing' persons to comply. In other contexts, this situation would be viewed by UK governments, past and present, to be oppresive !! Information should be provided either free or at cost (e.g. Regulations etc), and the service of the government department to provide information 'ad-hoc', free. If revenue is to be earned, why not do this from higher fines for offenders, where serious injury and death result at work, along with prison sentences. The 'Examples' continue to astound where fines and levels of penalties do not sem to match the 'offence' - It seems to be increasingly so that Justice is a sword not often sharpened. Stuart Nagle

Posted By Michael Webb Overall l am fairly impressed, but was disappointed to discover that the "EH" series is not available - seems Butterworths forgot to tell me that !!