Posted By Wesley Townsend I understand that whilst on the ground in a UK airport the likes of BAA would be responsible for the implementation for health & safety of their employees, the various airline employees, ATC et al. Also the airlines themselves would be responsible for ensuring the health & safety of their own employees and passengers whilst on board one of their aircraft - whilst on the ground on British soil. However, does HASAWA and all supporting UK health and safety legislation apply when the aircraft is flying on route to any destination where that legislation does not apply. More to the point does it have any relevance as soon at the aircraft takes off? Also if a British airline lands in another country, are their employees and passengers covered by UK legislation should an accident occur whilst on board the aircraft? Where does the Civil Aviation Authority come into play in these circumstances - do they just regulate or are they also enforcers?

Posted By Colin Reeves Cannot answer the question directly, but suspect the same logic behind the legislation applies. On board ships, they are governed by the Merchant Shipping Acts and HASWA does not apply. On the interface, i.e. in port, the MSAct applies to work on board ship, unless it is being carried out by a shore contractor, when the HASWA applies. There is a Memorandum of Understanding between the HSE and the MCA (marine regulatory body) specifying who does what. I suspect the legislation covering aircraft will have a similar split. Colin