Creating a safe and comfortable work environment is essential for any employer, and there are legal requirements in place to ensure that employees have access to adequate welfare facilities. These facilities include toilets and washbasins, drinking water, and areas for rest and meal breaks. In this blog we’ll provide a brief look at some of the things to consider when reviewing what you have in place, and what might need improvement:

Toilets and Washbasins:

• Provide adequate toilet facilities based on the number of employees.
• Separate facilities should be available for male and female employees, or alternatively, unisex facilities with individual lockable doors.
• A supply of toilet paper, and appropriate bins for the disposal of sanitary items.
• Handwashing facilities should be readily available, and of a suitable size.
• Hot and cold running water, and soap or suitable hand cleansers available.

Drinking Water:

• Provide access to clean drinking water throughout the working day.
• The water supply should be regularly tested for quality to check it is suitable for drinking.
• Drinking water should be easily accessible, preferably from a tap or water dispenser.

Rest and Eating Areas:

• Provide a designated area where employees can take breaks, rest, and eat their meals.
• This rest area should be clean, comfortable, and adequately ventilated.
• Adequate seating and facilities for heating and refrigerating food should be available.

Hygiene and Maintenance:

• Regularly clean and maintain the welfare facilities.
• Provide appropriate facilities for hand drying, such as paper towels or hand dryers.

Accessibility:

• Consider the accessibility needs of employees, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.

Privacy:

• Ensure that the toilets provide adequate privacy and are well-lit.

Complying with the requirements for staff welfare facilities is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental aspect of creating a positive work environment. These regulations outline the minimum requirements that employers must meet to ensure the well-being of their employees.

It is important for employers to familiarise themselves with these to ensure compliance and to see what additional adjustments can be made to exceed these minimums. These extras don’t need to be expensive or complicated – at Armour we have a TV License for our office so that staff can catch up on their favourite shows during breaks, and for streaming live sports when there’s something good on!

Remember, the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not substitute professional advice for your own organisational obligations.