Health and Safety
All employers have a statutory duty to take care of the health and safety of all their employees, for example, they should provide first aid equipment, and adequate means of escape in case of fire, protective clothing and ensure all machinery is safe.
In addition, there are specific rules which cover the following:
- fire safety
- cleanliness
- noise
- machinery
- lifting and carrying heavy weights
- hazardous substances
- toilets
- washing facilities
- drinking water
- seating
- first aid facilities
- temperatures
- hours and rests. Nearly all workers have the right not to have to work for more than 48 hours on average, a week. Night workers cannot work an average of more than eight hours in each 24 hour period. Workers aged 18 and over (adult workers) are entitled to one day off each week. Workers aged 16-18 (adolescent workers) are entitled to two days off each week. Adult workers are entitled to eleven hours consecutive rest per day, and a minimum 20 minute rest break if their working day is longer than six hours. Adolescent workers are entitled to 12 hours consecutive rest per day, and a minimum 30 minute rest break if they work for longer than four and a half hours
- computers
- smoking at work is banned.
For more information, the Health and Safety Executive of Northern Ireland has an information and advice line on 0800 0320121.
If you believe your workplace is unsafe or unhealthy you should contact your Union or the Health and Safety Executive or the local authority's environmental health department.
Sickness
Many employees will be entitled to statutory sick pay if they are off work due to sickness. In addition, some employees may receive occupational sick pay from their employer but this will depend on their contract of employment.
