Our work covers not just health and safety consultancy but also environmental consultancy and one thing which clients should be aware of is the PICR (Pollution Incident Cost Recovery) Scheme.
Its really very similar to the HSE Fee For Intervention scheme, albeit at a lower fee per hour of £84 rather than £124. You should be aware however that costs may still be recoverable even if the incident does not cause pollution and when an offence has not been committed – somewhat stronger than the HSE version.
Costs which can be recovered include:
- tracing the source of pollution
- assessing the possible impact
- urgent remedial/preventative work
- materials required
- samples taken
- ongoing supervision and other additional specialist costs e.g. fish restocking.
Non-rechargeable costs are:
- any investigative work once the source of the pollution has been established e.g. follow-up visits to the incident site to check on remediation measures or to monitor the effect on controlled waters
- any work associated with case file preparation for enforcement action.
The advice remains the same as for FFI; act swiftly to reduce your costs and work with the Inspector to ensure that the offence is brought under control as soon as possible.
More information can be found here; http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/regulation/38813.aspx or use the contact us links above to speak to one of our consultants.
If you need help or advice on health and safety please contact us or request a call back – or call and speak to a friendly expert on 01453 800100.
