Which are the two types of statutory duty?

Which are the two types of statutory duty?

• A. Qualified
• B. Absolute
• C. Mandatory
• D. Optional

Answer: (B)

Statutory duties in health and safety are classified into two forms: absolute duties and qualified duties. An absolute duty must be complied with in all circumstances; there’s no consideration of practicality or risk—failure to meet it is an offence regardless of what you could have done. A qualified duty, on the other hand, requires you to achieve safety by taking steps that are reasonably practicable; compliance can be shown through demonstrating appropriate controls and due diligence. The idea is that some duties are unconditional, while others allow for reasonable steps and defenses if you’ve done what’s practicable to protect safety.

Statutory duties in health and safety are classified into two forms: absolute duties and qualified duties. An absolute duty must be complied with in all circumstances; there’s no consideration of practicality or risk—failure to meet it is an offence regardless of what you could have done. A qualified duty, on the other hand, requires you to achieve safety by taking steps that are reasonably practicable; compliance can be shown through demonstrating appropriate controls and due diligence. The idea is that some duties are unconditional, while others allow for reasonable steps and defenses if you’ve done what’s practicable to protect safety.