(Information for UK - domiciled merchants only.)
You've registered your business and domain name, HMRC and Companies House have the paperwork and your bank accounts are waiting for you to start trading. But you still have a few legal tasks on your to-do list.
Health and safety
Even if you are a sole trader and the only 'employee' is you, as soon as you register your online business, you are obliged to create a risk-free environment for your employees. The Health and Safety Executive is responsible for ensuring the welfare of British workers. Your responsibilities won't be difficult to manage - particularly if you are your only employee - but you should check them out on the Health and Safety Website.
Data Protection Act
If you store your customer details in a database (hard or soft copy) then by law you must register this activity in order to conform with the Data Protection Act 1998 UK. It's really straightforward, and around £35 covers you for two years.
For more information and to register, go to the Data Protection Website.
Or call the Data Protection Helpline on 01625 545745.
