Acorn Safety Services has launched a free online Healthcheck to help businesses identify potential gaps in their health and safety arrangements. The announcement published by UK News Group says the assessment takes around three to four minutes and covers health and safety, fire safety, Legionella and asbestos. Users receive a personalised action plan highlighting areas that may need attention and suggested next steps. For employers and facilities managers, it offers a straightforward starting point for reviewing workplace safety responsibilities.

The commercial value lies in making compliance easier to assess and prioritise. The Health and Safety Executive’s risk management guidance sets out the steps employers should take to identify hazards, assess risks and implement suitable controls. Acorn’s online Healthcheck can help businesses identify areas for further review, but the company describes it as an indicative self-assessment, not a formal audit or confirmation of legal compliance.

For facilities management teams, this approach is relevant to buildings where safety responsibilities span fire precautions, asbestos management, Legionella controls and general workplace risks. A structured initial review can help managers identify issues requiring attention and coordinate follow-up work with the appropriate specialists. This is particularly useful where several contractors, records and inspection schedules must be managed across a property portfolio.

Acorn is also offering free health and safety audits to businesses, schools and public sector organisations. The company says these include reviews of health and safety policies and management arrangements. The HSE’s guidance on competent persons explains how employers can access appropriate expertise to help meet their responsibilities, while making clear that legal responsibility remains with the employer.

For businesses, the priority is to turn initial checks into effective action. Digital assessments can help identify where attention is needed, but their value depends on suitable risk assessments, competent advice and follow-up reviews. For the sector, the lesson is direct: accessible tools can make workplace safety easier.