SMALL businesses have been warned to be on their guard against letters demanding up to £249 to pay for a health and safety registration.

Trading standards officers have received complaints from businesses that have received letters threatening prosecution if businesses do not register immediately.

The letters appear to come from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which has received many complaints. It has advised businesses not to pay anything for unnecessary registration or information from organisations sending out the letters.

The HSE produces a legitimate health and safety starter pack explaining all aspects of health and safety compliance for £30.