Lack of space around desk...what can I do?

ILW

mayling03 wrote: »

That's the thing, knowing me, I will get up less in order to not disturb others. But not happy at all. Think worst thing is, we were not consulted at all and we are the ones who are moving!

Just resign and flounce off if it is that much of a deal to you.

getmore4less

swap desks

paddedjohn

BobQ wrote: »

OP - you do have rights under the health and safety regulations (see below) but enforcing them may be difficult. If you have to keep disturbing them, they may suggest you swop places?

Legally under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 you are entitled to have 11 cubic metres of space per person in a room more depending on the layout of the room. If you use a computer for a significant proportion of time you have other rights as a Display Screen Equipment user, including an appropriate computer chair with room to manouevre it to use the workstation in comfort and a suitable means of escape in an emergency. See the summary in:

www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg244.pdf

11 cubic metres is not a lot you know, its only about 7ft x 7ft x 7ft

Andy_L

BobQ wrote: »

OP - you do have rights under the health and safety regulations (see below) but enforcing them may be difficult. If you have to keep disturbing them, they may suggest you swop places?

Legally under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 you are entitled to have 11 cubic metres of space per person in a room more depending on the layout of the room.

Isn't that a code of practice/recomendation rather than a legal entitlement (unless its an old factory) The1992 act just says "Every room where persons work shall have sufficient floor area, height and unoccupied space for purposes of health, safety and welfare."

dickydonkin

Andy_L wrote: »

Isn't that a code of practice/recomendation rather than a legal entitlement (unless its an old factory) The1992 act just says "Every room where persons work shall have sufficient floor area, height and unoccupied space for purposes of health, safety and welfare."

H&S ACoP's have a special legal status insomuch that if guidance is not followed, potentially, if a breach occurred, then they could be instrumental in a prosecution.

Look at it as a 'Highway Code' adopted to health and safety legislation.

The age of the workplace/factory - old or new - is irrelevant as the Welfare Regulations apply to all (other than a few exemptions, mines/ships etc.)

Regarding the OP's situation, if he had to work continuously in the restricted area, then perhaps there could be more of an issue, however, he did state that he spends time in the production area as well.

Not an ideal situation, but hardly a dangerous one either unless the lack of space is compounded by tripping hazards.