Central Government is defined to include all bodies established through political processes and for whose activities a Minister of Government or other responsible person is accountable to the people through the Oireachtas.

The main classes of central government are:

• Departments of State (No. 16)
• Ministerial groups (No. 30)
• Non-commercial state agencies associated with Departments of State (No. 176)

A list of all these employers can be found cso methodological note "Register of Public Sector Bodies" October 2015

Central government bodies and their associated groups and agencies are engaged in activities across a wide range of work sectors (e.g. Policing, Healthcare, Education, Procurement etc.). Employers must therefore manage for this. Some distinct employee profiles would include;

• Office based workers (only)
• Field workers
• Field workers engaged in enforcement activities

In meeting their own obligations as employers, central government have the opportunity to set an example by ensuring the highest level of protection of their workers and those affected by their work activities. in doing so, central government employers can actively encourage others (i.e. suppliers, contractors, partners etc.) to improve their health & safety practices and performance. This can be achieved:

• in the development, implementation and evaluation of central government policies, occupational safety & health is actively considered
• by central government employers using their investment and purchasing power to improve the occupational safety & health standards of others with whom they interact
• by central government employers exemplifying good occupational health & safety practices   

Related content:

HSE (UK) public services webpage