We are looking at working across 14 member states within the EU. Whilst each state complies with the EU Directives on H&S if we are benchmarking UK law as the basis of the standard to be achieved, does anyone know of any significant differences that we should be aware of?

The problem you face when using any legal system as a benchmark to measure compliance against is that a lot of the things that look minor can create conflict. Simple things like the posting of notices, permits, etc. aren't required necessarily but you will need to have them.

The preferable approach in my experience is to pick an area, identify what you need to check and then seek assurance that the solution offered is both legally compliant locally AND meets the expected standard. For example, a scaffold needs to be safely constructed from appropriate materials by a trained and competent person. It should have some indication that it is safe to use. Ideally you'd like to see an inspection record periodically and evidence that it was still as originally constructed.

If you look for UK scaffolds in Europe you will meet barriers - not insurmountable ones but barriers non the less - that can take huge amounts of effort to get over.

Of course, developing standards can be a time consuming activity in itself but looking at the different cultural and legal influences I'd suggest this as a productive starting point!