What are the welfare facilities that I need to provide for my employees?
Providing welfare facilities for all employees is a legal requirement. As an employer in the UK, according to the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, you must provide your employees with certain welfare facilities while they are at work. Welfare facilities are necessary for the well-being of your staff and include such things as providing toilets and washrooms, somewhere clean to eat and drink, clean drinking water and sometimes changing facilities. The HSE website sets out guidance for employers on the correct way of providing such welfare facilities.
Toilets and washroom facilities
The correct ratio of toilets to staff must be provided to avoid long queues. Toilets and washrooms need to be easily accessible to staff and must be well maintained, clean, ventilated and well lit. The provision of separate male and female toilets is advised but at the very least, toilets provided must be able to be locked for privacy. There must be a supply of toilet paper and a means of disposing of sanitary waste. There must be hot and cold running water and plenty of hand soap with basins large enough to wash both hands and forearms if necessary. You must also supply a means of drying hands for example hot air dryers or paper towels.
Meals & Breaktime facilities
Providing a suitable seating area is necessary for employees to sit during breaks or when eating meals. This should be in an area where food cannot be contaminated. These areas need to always be kept clean and hygienic and there should be washing facilities close by. Unless you provide a vending machine for hot drinks or there is a canteen, you must provide a means of heating food, such as a microwave, and of heating water for teas, coffees etc.
Drinking Water
The law requires employers to provide unlimited, clean drinking water for their staff. This can be tap water but the use of chilled, filtered water dispensers are very popular offering employees a more pleasant taste. The availability of chilled, filtered water in the workplace is especially welcome during periods of hot weather. Cups must also be provided, and the water dispensers should be easily accessible.
Changing Facilities
Only if your employees need to change into uniforms or personal protective equipment for work do you need to provide a suitable area for them to do this. The changing facilities need to ensure privacy and alongside this you must provide somewhere to store clothing. The provision of these welfare facilities is not only a legal requirement, but also promotes the health and wellbeing of employees. This contributes to a more positive and productive working environment.