Issued by HSE inspectors ordering that Health and Safety at Work, etc., Act 1974 contraventions be remedied within a specified time. The notice is served on the person deemed to be contravening the legal provision, or on any person on whom responsibilities are placed, e.g. an employer, an employed person or a supplier. The person may be prosecuted instead of, or in addition to, being served with a notice. Insurers usually provide cover in respect of prosecution defence costs.