A lot of people have found enormous success in freelancing. To such an extent that they make the transition from being a self-employed 'freelancer' to operating a a fully fledged consulting business with permanent offices and a small number of employees.
 
If you make this transition its important you have the right business insurance in place. Its more than likely now you employ staff and have customers or members of the public visiting your offices, the risk profile of your business will of changed. Without proper insurance we all know one's business could be wiped out by one big lawsuit so it makes sense to guard against every possible risk. One type of insurance that is often overlooked, but very necessary is health & safety insurance. 

Every business has a legal responsbility to provide a safe working environment, not just for employees but anyone else who may come into contact with their business - customers, suppliers, tradesmen etc. Its easy to think accidents or injuries will never happen in your workplace but reality is different. Each year over 2 million people in Britain suffer from ill-health caused, or made worse by work. Additionally 150,000 injuries are registered annually. Sadly, 200 people a year loose their lives at work. 

In office environments, staff can suffer from back problems, repetitive strain injury or other musculoskeletal disorders due to continual use of computers, poor design of workstations and insufficient space. These problems may become serious if no action is taken. The financial consequences severe if it is found that you are responsible. 

The key for business owner's is to prevent people becoming ill or harmed by taking the right precautions. The easiest and most cost effective way of doing this is by implementing health & safety measures. Many insurers offer a Health & Safety guidance policy outlining the steps you should take to implement a safe and acceptable work place. By complying with HSE regulations you have a much stronger case of defence if a H&S related claim is made against you.