Listed below is some of the legislation which might apply in health or social care work enviroment.
The HSE is the UK government body responsible for enforcing health and safety at work legislation. The HSE also plays a major role in producing advice on health and safety issues, and guidance on relevant legislation. The role of enforcement is split between HSE and local authorities depending on the business sector
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
Often referred to as HASAW or HSW, this Act of Parliament is the main piece of UK health and safety legislation. It places a duty on all employers "to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work" of all their employees.
Among other provisions, the Act also requires:
• safe operation and maintenance of the working environment, plant and systems
• maintenance of safe access and egress to the workplace
• safe use, handling and storage of dangerous substances
• adequate training of staff to ensure health and safety
• adequate welfare provisions for staff at work.
Employers must also keep and revise a written record of health and safety policy and consult with employees or their representatives on such policies (this only applies to those employing five or more).
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 places a duty on employers to assess and manage risks to their employees and others arising from work activities.
Employers must also make arrangements to ensure the health and safety of the workplace, including making arrangements for emergencies, adequate information and training for employees, and for health surveillance where appropriate.
Employees must work safely in accordance with their training and instructions given to them. Employees must also notify the employer or the person responsible for health and safety of any serious or immediate danger to health and safety or any shortcoming in health and safety arrangements.
Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995
Known as RIDDOR, these regulations require employers, the self-employed and people in control of premises, to report work-related deaths, major injuries, work-related diseases and dangerous occurrences.
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
These regulations are concerned with the working environment. They place a duty on employers to make sure that the workplace is safe and suitable for the tasks being carried out there, and that it does not present risks to employees and others.
The regulations cover all aspects of the working environment, including:
• maintenance of the workplace, equipment, devices and systems
• temperature in indoor workplaces
• cleanliness and waste materials
• room dimensions and space
• work stations and seating
• condition of floors and traffic routes
• falls or falling objects
• windows and transparent or translucent doors, gates and walls
• windows, skylights and ventilators
• ability to clean windows, etc. safely
• organisation, etc. of traffic routes
• doors and gates
• escalators and moving walkways
• sanitary conveniences
• washing facilities
• drinking water
• accommodation for clothing
• facilities for changing clothing
• facilities for rest and to eat meals.
Apr 23, 8884 01:38 PM