Can self-employed individuals be considered duty holders?

Self-employed individuals can indeed be classified as duty holders because they have legal responsibilities for their own health and safety while at work. Under health and safety legislation, duty holders are defined as individuals or organizations that have a specific obligation to ensure a safe working environment. This includes self-employed individuals who must manage risks associated with their own work activities, ensure that they do not pose a risk to others, and comply with relevant health and safety regulations.

Self-employed individuals must conduct risk assessments, implement safety measures, and ensure that their work practices do not endanger themselves or others, which firmly places them in the role of a duty holder. This classification underscores the importance of individual responsibility in maintaining workplace safety, regardless of whether someone is employed by a company or working independently.

The other options incorrectly suggest either an exemption or conditional status that does not recognize the inherent responsibilities of self-employed individuals under health and safety law.