Health and Safety at Work

As the employer, it is your duty to ensure that the working environment as well as all the equipment is safe, not only for your employees but for anyone visiting your office. If you are intending to employ, here are the rules:

Contact your local Environmental Health Department.
Display the Health and Safety Law poster.
Ensure you have adequate employer's liability insurance.
Display your employer's liability insurance certificate at each place of work.
If you have five or more employees, show them your written policy statement on health and safety and make an assessment of the fire risks at your workplace.

The health and safety officer has power of entry to your workplace, as well as legal enforcement rights. There are no shortcuts with health and safety, the right way is the only way. Listed below are a few of the essential do's and dont's:

Keep fire exits clear at all times.
Plan what to do in case of fire.
Check all staff know the fire drill.
Inspect and keep maintained all fire extinguishers and show your staff how to use them (your local fire station will issue you with instructions).
Check your electrical wiring is in good condition.
Use conduit to route wires and cables.
Keep the first aid box in an easily accessible place and check its contents regularly.

Don't

Leave wires or cables trailing from equipment.
Attempt to carry heavy items - use a trolley.
Stand on chairs.
Place things on the floor (someone will trip over them).
Leave filing cabinet drawers open (only open one drawer at a time).
File anything above the head level of the shortest employee.
Allow anyone to smoke in the workplace during working hours.

A Word of Advice

The old adage 'Don't spoil the ship for a hap'th of tar' applies. Without an efficient and safe office environment, mistakes may happen that could potentially cost you money. An accident to yourself or an employee may result in a great deal of time and work, as well as distress. Don't cut corners - do it properly.