The 1974 UK Act of Parliament laying down standards of health and safety at work, and providing for their enforcement through a Health and Safety Commission. The act is designed to protect both workers and the public from hazards to health and safety arising from a variety of causes, including unfenced machinery, toxic and explosive substances, excessive noise, atmospheric pollution, and inadequate heating and lighting of premises. It imposes on employers the duty of providing safety training, and providing safety equipment and ensuring that employees use it.