The impending Agency Worker Regulations do not mean employers cannot continue to benefit from using temporary agency labour, according to Andy Smith, head of regulation and employment law, Adecco Group, UK & Ireland.

Smith’s comments follow publication last week of draft guidance on the AWR regulations set to come into force in October, which is now available for comment.

Smith says: “The publishing of the draft guidance offers a stark reminder to HR professionals that it is now just six months to go until the regulation comes into effect.

“It is essential that those organisations which have not already begun to assess the impact this regulation will have on their business and their staffing strategies take action to prepare.

“Using agency workers is a key strategy in workforce management for many businesses and by taking the necessary action now, there is no reason why they cannot continue to benefit from this valuable element of the workforce post October.”