Don't overlook homeworker safety assessments

As many as 3.5 million people now regularly work from home in the UK, more than 12% of the population, and another 1.5 million are expected to join them today as part of 'National Work from Home Day' - an initiative organised by Work Wise UK.

Norwich Union Risk Services (NURS) liability risk adviser, Ashley Hutton, suggested that employers mark the day by reviewing their homeworker risk assessments to ensure staff were both safe and healthy, and to fulfil their legal responsibilities.

"Most health and safety at work regulations apply equally to homeworkers as they do to those operating from their employer's premises," explained Ashley. "Risk assessments are no exception and mustn't be overlooked."

He told us that when it comes to identifying homeworker hazards it may be necessary for employers to visit the worker's home to carry out an assessment.

"While it is possible for homeworkers to help identify the hazards without the need for a visit, employers should be aware that the duty rests firmly with them. Well-designed self-assessment forms can be helpful here.

"Employers can of course use risk consultants or other competent service providers to undertake an assessment on their behalf."

Electrical equipment

Assessments must also consider who might be harmed and how. This does not just apply to homeworkers, but also to other members of the household, including children or visitors.

"Employers should note that if they have five or more employees, including homeworkers, they are required by law to record the significant findings from a risk assessment," said Ashley.

"They must note down what steps need to be taken and inform homeworkers, or anyone else affected by the work being done, about the findings."

The NURS risk adviser went on to say that one of the greatest safety hazards for homeworkers was the use of electrical equipment.

"When supplied by the employer it is they who are responsible for maintenance," he said. "However, electrical sockets and other parts of the homeworkers' domestic electrical system are their own responsibility."

Hazards associated with electrical equipment included damaged or badly wired plugs, overheating, inadequate domestic electrical systems and homeworkers attempting to repair equipment themselves. Trailing wires and faulty equipment were particularly hazardous.

For a two-page NURS 'hardfacts' guide (pdf) to homeworkers' health and safety, which covers employers' responsibilities, common risks and key actions, click here.