Legally, employers must provide welfare facilities and a working environment that’s healthy and safe for everyone in the workplace, including those with disabilities.
There are specific laws relating to some higher-risk workplaces, such as construction sites, but generally, as a minimum you must have the right number of toilets and washbasins (with running water, soap and towels/hand-dryer) as well as a place to store clothing (and somewhere to change if special clothing is worn for work), drinking water, somewhere to rest and eat meals, a clean workplace with a reasonable working temperature, good ventilation, suitable lighting and the right amount of space and seating and well-maintained equipment, with no obstructions in floors and traffic routes, and windows that can be easily opened and cleaned.
There must also be good ventilation – a supply of fresh, clean air drawn from outside (Windows need to be able to be opened and cleaned safely) or a ventilation system alongside a reasonable working temperature so it’s comfortable to work (usually at least 16°C, or 13°C for strenuous work, unless other laws require lower temperatures). There should be adequate lighting suitable for the work being carried out and enough room space and suitable workstations and seating. Appropriate waste containers need to be provided within a clean workplace
Safety is of the utmost priority. You must adequately maintain your premises and work equipment, keep floors and traffic routes free of obstructions and make sure that any transparent (e.g glass) doors or walls are protected or made of safety material
Reasonable adjustments also need to be considered for workers with disabilities, not just physical but medical too, for example, a worker with prostate cancer.
If you require support with ensuring you are meeting all legal requirements, contact us.
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