Office MOT Could Avoid Compensation Pay-Outs - July 08

Covered in: Business Bulletin (Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce), August; Commercial Property Review, July

Office design specialist, asplanned, is offering employers a free “Office MOT” to ensure staff are fully protected against possible injury in the workplace.

The Dundee and Aberdeen based company will perform a free health check to identify potential office hotspots which could lead to staff becoming ill or injured.

Asplanned has introduced the service in support of businesses which are committed to promoting health in the workplace.

Andy Stewart, asplanned managing director, said a failure to pinpoint problem areas in the office environment and take immediate action could prove costly, both in terms of potential legal fees and worker compensation.

Mr Stewart cited a recent case in which a Scottish council was ordered to pay £10,000 compensation to an employee who injured her neck while stretching to use a computer.

Mr Stewart said: “This initiative supports employers who are committed to good practice in the workplace and protecting the health of their staff.

“Our free ‘asplanned Office MOT’ service will thoroughly assess existing office working conditions and offer advice on preventative action which could avoid health issues for staff and prevent costly compensation actions against employers.

“Our long experience in designing and installing a wide range of offices and knowledge of ergonomics can add a new dimension to occupational health issues which employers increasingly face.

”The ‘asplanned Office MOT’ is free and without obligation and we hope it raises awareness of important health issues which can impact on the welfare of an individual and the wider business.”

In March, Fife Council was ordered to pay social worker Brenda Downie £10,000 damages after admitting they breached guidelines on the setting up of workstations. Mrs Downie was off work for six months and needed physiotherapy after she injured her neck while twisting and turning to reach a computer terminal.

Andy Stewart added: “Taking advantage of this free service should hopefully ensure other employers and employees don’t suffer the same fate and it gives added reassurance that both parties are fully protected.”

BBC News

• Home
• Say hello!
• Meet us

• Bookmark with:
• Digg
• StumbleUpon
• Delicious
• Reddit