Is this legal ?

Mips

The office I works in must spend an absolute fortune on those replacement water cooler things as lately they seem to be being replaced 3/4 times a day!!!


We have no problem going for a drink, or going to the toilet.. or keeping hydrated..

Why is my workplace any different to a supermarket?

Harry_Powell

Bogof_Babe wrote: »

Is she not allowed to go to the loo either during her six hour shift? I'm sure that wouldn't be legal. If she is, then while taking a loo break surely she could have a quick drink.

Perhaps she could fit a catheter and kill two birds with one stone?

jackieb

http://www.hse.gov.uk/contact/faqs/water.htm

It looks like they should even be supplying the water too. I can't see how a fainting member of staff would be better for customers to see than someone taking a drink of water from a bottle in this heat.

MrsE_2

doodlesmum wrote: »

Hi,

I am looking for some advice if possible my sister works for a large supermarket chain who i wont name

Why won't you name them?

Pretty crappy, they deserve outing.

Lots of schools are still insisting children wear full uniform!

Louise22

Dippychick wrote: »

The office I works in must spend an absolute fortune on those replacement water cooler things as lately they seem to be being replaced 3/4 times a day!!!


We have no problem going for a drink, or going to the toilet.. or keeping hydrated..

Why is my workplace any different to a supermarket?

Because of customers maybe? Although as I have said, if customers are offended at staff taking a sip of water then they are the ones with the problem:o

doodlesmum

Hi,

Thanks everyone for all your answers really appreciate them epecially the links i think it bang out order glad it not only me that thinks this i was so cross my sister told me dont know if i dare name fully lets say they have a famous market street they brag bout .I will pass on the info to her tonight when she finishes so she can follow it up and hopefully they may re think their rule.Will keep you updated on what happens
Thanks again all you been brill.

Ms_Chocaholic

Harry_Powell wrote: »

Perhaps she could fit a catheter and kill two birds with one stone?

or perhaps the Manager should personally fit all his staff with one :eek:

Tibbs,The_Freebie_Hunter

I found the following article:

http://www.personalsafetyadvice.co.uk/PersonalSafetyAtWork.html

Fresh water, safe walkways and adequate personal space – these are three of the basic requirements for health and safety at work. The Health & Safety Commission is the government body responsible for deciding and promoting national guidelines. They provide information about everything from risk assessment to safe recycling – if you do it, there’s a policy on it. Since its establishment in 1974, British work accidents have reduced by two thirds. Reduce your risk by reading our quick guide to personal safety at work.

Staying Cool at Work

During the last few years, tropical heatwaves have become a big concern for the Health and Safety Commission, but many employees still overlook this important safety message. ‘Heat stress’ can cause dehydration, accidents, and even hospitalisation – so if you suffer from uncomfortable temperatures at work, you have the right to request an assessment from your employer. The Commission has published guidelines for employers about maintaining the thermal environment. It recommends ventilation in every place of work.

Although employees have some control over the clothing they wear and the duration of high-exertion activities, heat-control is an employer’s responsibility. Employers are required to maintain temperatures of no less than 16 degrees C (in an office) and not less than 13 degrees C in a place where work involves physical activity. Of course some employees may work in extreme temperatures due to the nature of their jobs, and these are governed by specific laws. In this case, employees should have use of special clothing (like thermals for those in a cool environment) and access to rest areas (which are temperature-monitored).

Workplace Checklist

The Health and Safety Commission publishes extensive guidelines about workplace safety. Here’s a quick checklist – make sure your workplace measures up!

• Lights: can you work without squinting? There should be enough lighting for you to see clearly and work without eyestrain. If the room lighting is insufficient you should have a lamp at your desk. Emergency lighting should be arranged for anyone who works in a hazardous area (like a factory)
• Cleanliness: is your workplace clean and tidy? Your working area should be kept clean – if not by you then by a contracted staff-member. (If you’re not sure who’s responsible, talk to your employer.)
• Space: do you have the space to move your elbows? Every employee should have a minimum of 11 cubic metres of dedicated workspace. To work out how much you have, multiply the width and length of your desk/chair space and multiply the result by 3. A square of 2m x 2m (or 4m x 1m) is judged to be adequate.
• Spinal support: do you get back pain? If you find your work position uncomfortable you should request an assessment. Your chair should provide support for your lower back, and if your feet don’t touch the floor you’ll also need a footrest. You could also request a hand-rest for your keyboard, a document holder for typing, and a screen shield or magnifier.
• Walking around at work: are there clear routes for exit from the workplace? Pedestrian and vehicle routes should be kept separate; staircases should have handrails on one side; and doors which open both ways should have a window in them to avoid accidents.
• Washrooms: did you know that adequate washrooms are required by the HS Commission? Every place of work should have washrooms with hot and cold water, soap, and towels.
• Drinking water: do you have access to fresh water? Your employer has a responsibility to provide suitable drinking water (and don’t forget we should all be drinking 2 litres every day!).

There has been a heat wave predicted over the next wee while (tropical, I think not), but if you print these sort of articles and continually mention the magical words Health & Safety. If enough staff complain to Head Office or even the local paper, something would have to be done about it.

Tibbs,The_Freebie_Hunter

If this falls on ears that won't listen, then suggest that since you follow the government guidelines of consuming spectacular quantities of fruit (used to be 5-a-day, but now must be at least 20 - lol) and the rule of 2 litres of water per day, then you have to do as the government tells you. In order to do this, and to prevent any dire consequences, such as water logging or something more sinister if you were to take all your apples in one go (to keep the doctor at bay), then you need to have an 'escape' break to maintain your healthiness.

teabelly

If swigging on a water bottle isn't the right image then why don't they provide cups? Also they should bear in mind that check out assistants slumped over the tills due to heat exhaustion doesn't look good either. If one were to faint and hit their head they could have a serious law suit on their hands.