The Workplace, (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992 apply to a wide range of workplaces, not only factories, but shops, offices, schools, hotels, hospitals and places of entertainment. These regulations aim to ensure that workplaces meet the health, safety and welfare needs of employees, which may include people with disabilities.

Below are answers to questions often asked by small businesses

Temperature

Is there a maximum and minimum temperature?
No, the requirement is that during working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable. Temperatures should normally be at least 16°C. However, if work involves physical effort it should be at least 13oC. If it is not reasonably comfortable throughout the workroom, local heating/ ventilation should be provided. In extremely hot weather, fans and increased ventilation may be necessary.

Employers may need to provide protective clothing where employees have to work in cold conditions, and these staff should be given the opportunity to go and get warm and have a hot drink.

Toilets

Do I have to provide toilets for staff?
Suitable and sufficient toilets must be provided at readily accessible places for staff. They and the rooms containing them should be kept clean and be adequately ventilated and lit. If you have more than five employees separate facilities must be provided for men and women.

Washing Facilities

Are washing facilities required for toilets?
Yes, washing facilities must be provided in the immediate vicinity of every toilet, whether or not provided elsewhere.

Rest Areas

Do I need to provide rest facilities?
Yes, suitable and sufficient rest facilities shall be provided at readily accessible places and should have sufficient seats with backrests and tables. They must include suitable facilities to eat meals where meals are regularly eaten in the workplace and where the food would otherwise be likely to become contaminated. Rest areas and rest rooms away from workstations must include suitable arrangements to protect non-smokers from discomfort caused by tobacco smoke.

Working Hours and Breaks

Do staff have to be given a staff break?
Yes, when the daily working time is over 6 hours. Staff should have a 20 minute uninterrupted break, which must be a break in the working time (not at the start or end of work time). This break does not have to be paid.

Adolescents (aged 16 or 17) are entitled to a 30 minute break when they work more than 41 / 2 hours.

After 23rd November 1999, staff are entitled to 4 weeks paid leave where they have worked continuously for 13 weeks.

The weekly average working time limit is 48 hours (although staff can choose to work longer).