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brianthemodeller  
#1 Posted : 13 January 2012 15:34:26(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
brianthemodeller

Please could I have some help from the 'great and the good' of the H&S world? My employer is one of three tenants in an office building in central London. The landlord provides cleaning services (contractors) who operate throughout the building outside of normal office hours. Do we, as tenants, have any responsibilities towards the cleaners - particularly relating to their health and safety? Are we OK to rely on the landlord to ensure that the cleaners are suitable trained and supervised etc (the situation at the moment) or should we be checking them out as well? I think I understand the concept that a client assumes the duties of an employer and so is responsible for the H&S of their contractors but, in this case, I am not sure if we are the employers or the landlord? Equally, where do we stand if a contract cleaner has an accident whilst working in our office area? Any guidance would be greatfully received Brian
RayRapp  
#2 Posted : 14 January 2012 10:07:53(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
RayRapp

Brian In the situation you describe I believe the onus is the landlord to ensure the health and safety of the cleaners. The Landlord does in effect becomes the 'employer' and assumes those duties. The landlord would also have a Duty of Care pursuant to the OLA.
David Bannister  
#3 Posted : 14 January 2012 10:42:16(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
David Bannister

Agree with Ray, although if the accident in your office area is due to your negligence ie a situation you have created or failed to make safe, then you will assume some liability. Your duty to maintain safe premises, equipment etc remains.
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