Many factors need to be considered to make workplaces safe and without unnecessary risks to health. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 in particular lay down standards for work environments and staff welfare for workplaces.
Basic guidance on the provisions of these Regulations is given below:
Cleanliness - premises and fittings are to be kept clean and good standards of housekeeping maintained (for example refuse to be removed regularly).
Hygiene - Sufficient toilet accommodation to be provided; usually separate provision to be made for each sex. Toilets to be easily accessible and kept clean, well lit, ventilated and in good repair. Washing facilities with hot and cold (or warm) running water, soap and provisions for hand drying are provided.
Drinking Water - Clearly marked supply of wholesome drinking water to be provided.
Temperature - A comfortable working temperature to be provided, usually above 16°C (60°F). Legislation does not specifically provide for a maximum working temperature but action must be taken to avoid discomfort. Where low temperatures prevail (a cold store for example) workers should be provided with protective clothing and have access to heater rest rooms where necessary.
Space - Each employee must have sufficient working space to enable them to do their work safely and without risks to their health.
Lighting - A good standard of general illumination should be provided and sustained by regular cleaning and maintenance. Certain work activities such as work with display screens (VDUs), machinery and very close work require special attention to lighting.
Floors and Gangways- Floors to be kept clean, dry and in good repair, free from holes and uneven or slippery sections. Floor openings to be kept properly covered and guarded and hazards to be clearly marked. All staircases, walkways and fire exits should be kept free of obstructions, which could cause a person to trip or fall. All staircases to the premises should be well constructed with a handrail provided on at least one side.
Ventilation - Premises to be adequately ventilated for comfort and impurity/odour removal. Heating systems should not give off fumes into the workplace.
Workstations and Seating - All workstations for example desks, benches and counters and associated seating must be suitable for the people using them and the work.
Asbestos may be found in buildings as heat and noise insulation products, and fire protection products. Brake pads and clutch linings may also contain asbestos. Asbestos is dangerous when small dust particles are released and can be inhaled. Most of the dangerous particles are too small to be seen with the naked eye so the hazards may not be immediately apparent. Exposure to asbestos over a period of time can lead to asbestosis (scarring of the lung), lung cancer and mesothelioma (cancer of the chest wall lining).
The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987 (amended 1998) and other associated legislation, require safeguards against asbestos to be taken. Some examples are:
If in any doubt about material which you suspect might contain asbestos contact:
Health and Safety Section,
Environmental Protection,
Environmental Services Directorate,
Chadderton Town Hall,
Middleton Road,
Chadderton
Oldham.
OL9 6PP
Tel: 0161 770 4454
Fax: 0161 770 3444
email: environmentalhealth@oldham.gov.uk