As summer approaches, so does the peak season for taking on additional members of staff, frequently part time, to cover holiday periods.

There’s no doubt that offering a summer job to a temporary member of staff can be extremely beneficial to both the individual and to your practise, however without the proper insurance it could turn out to be more costly than you first thought.

Whether you realise it or not, any individual working for you is your legal responsibility and under health and safety law, summer staff should be treated no differently than other full time employees.

If you are considering taking on an extra pair of hands over the summer, it makes sense that you prepare for the risks that come with the added responsibility, especially if you have never taken on extra staff before.

According to the HSE (Health & Safety Executive) you must consider;

• The layout of your practice;
• The physical, biological and chemical agents they will be exposed to;
• How they will handle work equipment;
• How the work and processes are organised;
• The extent of health and safety training needed;
• Risks from particular agents, processes and work.

If any employee is injured or has property damaged as a result of their work, they would be well within their rights to claim for compensation.

These types of claims are always costly, and even the most cautious of employers can find themselves faced with expensive legal fees and a hefty compensation pay-out.

Rest assured that with Employers Liability cover from Infocus Opticians Insurance you will be covered with an insurance programme that suits your needs and requirements should any employee, permanent or temporary, become injured or ill as a result of their work.

Written by: admin