in the UK, the laws which first started to regulate health and safety were first made many years ago. in certain industries, such as the manufacture and processing of cotton,these laws have been in place since the 1830's.
these laws have changed a great deal over time and now the most important in England and Wales is the health and safety at work,etc.
Act 1974 (HSW Act 1974) which regulates general safety,health and welfare at work.this Act is quite general and gives very little actual detail on what should be done. the details are covered in legal regulations and orders;Approved Codes of practice and Guidance