Part 3: Use of equipment for work at home

A common feature of the modern dwelling is the "home office", which is often equipped with separate phone, fax, copying and computer facilities supplied by the employer.

The HSE say that employers that provide homeworkers with equipment to carry out their work have a duty to ensure that:

> The equipment is correct for the job that is being done

> Proper information and training is given on how to use the equipment, so that the job can be done properly and safely

> The equipment being used is checked regularly and kept in a condition that does not cause harm to the homeworker or others

> Those people who are testing the equipment or training the homeworker are properly trained themselves, so that they provide the correct information and training

> Any necessary personal protective equipment and/or accessories are provided

> The equipment has the right controls to allow the work to be done safely; for example the controls should be clearly marked and properly positioned

> Checks on equipment are carried out safely; for example machines are switched off while being checked

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 cover the use of work equipment in the home. It should be noted that if employees are authorised to use their own equipment to work, such as their own mobile phones or electronic organisers, these too are covered by PUWER and an employer will need to ensure that they comply with the Regulations.

Use of electrical equipment usually presents the greatest safety hazard for home office workers. When supplied by the employer it is they who are responsible for maintenance. However, electrical sockets and other parts of the homeworkers' domestic electrical system are their own responsibility.

Hazards associated with electrical equipment include damaged or badly wired plugs, inadequate domestic electrical systems, overheating and homeworkers attempting to repair equipment themselves. Trailing wires and faulty equipment are especially hazardous. Employers should make themselves aware of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.