What advice is there for staff who may be exposed to second hand tobacco smoke in client homes?
Employers have a duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA), to protect, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees, including from any risks arising from exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). Below are some ideas, which may be helpful. However, it is for the employer to decide how they tackle the problem of second hand smoke based on the findings of their risk assessment. • Consult the HSE Guidance. Look for sensible solutions and compromises that protect the well being of carers but respect the rights of those being cared for. • Ensure exposure to second hand smoking is considered as part of the work place risk assessment and priority given to those who are considered most at risk (i.e. those, with respiratory complaints, subjected to greatest exposure etc) • Evaluate whether those being cared for are agreeable to curtailing their smoking habits when carers are present. • Consider providing guidance/training for
