Providing Adequate Workplace Welfare Facilities: A Guide for Employers

Employers are legally obligated to provide adequate and appropriate welfare facilities for their employees, as per HSE guidelines.

Basic Requirements for Welfare Facilities

Facilities must be provided unless it's unreasonable in terms of time, trouble, cost, and physical difficulty. These include:

• Washing, toilets, and changing areas
• Refreshment areas for breaks

Facilities vary depending on the business size and type.

HSE Criteria for Adequate Facilities

The HSE outlines the following criteria for welfare facilities:

• Enough toilets and washbasins with minimal queuing
• Separate or lockable facilities for different genders
• Clean, well-lit, and ventilated facilities
• Hot and cold running water with soap
• Basins large enough for washing hands and forearms
• Means for drying hands
• Showers where necessary
• Consideration for the needs of disabled employees

Facilities for Off-site and Remote Workers

Employers may need to provide chemical toilets and portable washing facilities.

Public Facilities as a Last Resort

Using public toilets and washing facilities should only be a last resort.

Drinking Water Provisions

Employers must ensure:

• Contamination-free drinking water, preferably from a public supply
• Accessible and adequate supplies
• Cups or a drinking fountain provided

Non-smoking Policies and Smoking Areas

Businesses are not required to provide smoking rooms but may create outside smoking areas.

Break and Seating Areas

Seating areas should be clean, safe for food consumption, and include:

• Washing facilities nearby
• Means of heating food or water for hot drinks

Changing Rooms and Clothing

Changing rooms should be provided for those needing to wear specialist clothing.

Provisions for Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers

A room for rest or lying down may be needed if practicable.

Customised Staff Welfare Policy

Each business should tailor its staff welfare policy to fit its unique requirements.

Conclusion

Employers have a crucial responsibility to ensure their workplace welfare facilities meet HSE regulations and cater to the needs of all employees.