A new clampdown on health and safety offenders will come into effect on Friday (16 January) meaning courts will have greater powers to punish directors of companies who break the rules.

The Health and Safety Offences Act will make imprisonment an option for offences, meaning company directors can be treated as criminals. Maximum penalties will also rise from £5,000 to £20,000.

Steffan Groch, head of regulatory at law firm DWF, said: "What we once considered a breach of regulations could in future become a criminal matter.

"The message is directors and senior managers can no longer afford to be lax about health and safety. They need to take a systematic approach, ensure risk assessments are carried out and proper procedures are in place to minimise risks and help protect their staff and the public at large."