Recruiters urged to review safe workplace policies
Recruiters have been urged to keep policies about providing a safe place of work under review, in light of this week’s summer heatwave.
The call follows a case involving a worker supplied to Watford General Hospital by multinational healthcare services provider Medirest, who the union claims was suspended for rolling his black combat trousers up earlier this week as temperatures soared past 30 deg C.
According to employment lawyer Christopher Tutton, partner at law firm Constantine Law, the case highlights the importance of recruiters keeping under review their legal obligation to provide a safe place of work under health & safety legislation.
“This will often require them to liaise with clients and agency workers to assess any risks and take reasonable steps to address those risks. This could be as simple as providing breaks, cold water, fans etc.
“The obligation on the agency is to ensure that there is a reasonable temperature at their workplace.
“In this case, however, there may be clinical reasons why rolling up trousers was not acceptable. Many hospitals have clinical dress codes designed to prevent the spread of infection and promote hygiene.”
In response, a Medirest spokesperson told Recruiter in a statement: “The health & safety of our colleagues is always our number one priority. It would be inappropriate for us to comment on an individual case where an investigation is ongoing. We maintain an open dialogue with our people on such issues, however, due to the nature of their job and health & safety requirements, it is important that porters wear appropriate uniform at all times.”
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