Inside an HSE inspection: What veterinary practices need to know

Citation Podcast

Inside an HSE inspection: What veterinary practices need to know

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HSE inspections don’t have to feel intimidating. 

In a busy veterinary practice, where teams are balancing surgeries, consults, emergencies and client expectations, the thought of a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) visit can feel like yet another pressure. 

But what actually happens during an inspection?
What are inspectors really looking for?
And how can practices prepare without overwhelming already stretched teams? 

In our latest podcast Adrian Brine, Partnership Manager at Citation, is joined by: 

• Lucy Pottle, Health & Safety Consultant at Citation 

• Chris White, Operations & Development Director and Board Chair at VMG 

• Steven Goodear, SPVS Board Member and Practice Owner at Black Sheep Vets 

Together, they break down what HSE inspections really look like in veterinary settings — and how practices can prepare with confidence. 

What you’ll learn 

• Why vet practices are inspected 

• What happens during an inspection 

• The biggest compliance gaps in veterinary settings 

• What inspectors look for around COSHH, sharps, clinical waste, PPE, and manual handling 

• Why mental health and stress risk assessments matter 

• How leadership, culture and team confidence influence inspection outcomes 

• Practical tools to reduce overwhelm and save time 

You’ll also hear real-world insight into how practices can embed Health & Safety into everyday operations — so it becomes part of the culture, not a once-a-year exercise. 

Why this episode matters 

Veterinary environments are fast paced, emotionally demanding and clinically complex. Health & Safety can easily feel like an additional administrative burden — particularly if you don’t have a dedicated compliance lead. 

But when done well, the right systems protect your team, strengthen trust, improve standards and create calmer, more confident workplaces. 

An inspection shouldn’t feel like a test. It should confirm what you already know: your systems work. 

Listen now 

If you’re a practice owner, manager or clinical lead wanting clarity on HSE expectations then this episode is essential listening.