Rank: Forum user
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Hi
What is the extent of the emeployers reponsibilites in terms of H&S for an employee working abroad for several months and taking their children with them? Is the employer responsible for H&S for everyone all the time, or just the employee during working hours with the parent taking responsibility for the children at other times?
I can see the employer is responsible for the employee and their family in terms of the general deplyment, their travel and living conditions, but im not clear on how far this might extennd into "normal" life while on deployment?
Cheers
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Rank: Forum user
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Your employer has a legal duty of care to yourself, this does not extend to your family.
However, a responsible employer will recognise (if your family is joining you) this extends to your family also as their well being and safety will impact on your own.
Prior to making any arrangements your employer should make all the necessary checks of the location/area you are visiting via a risk assessment to ensure adequate controls are in place, for example:
- make sure you are fit to travel and have no pre-existing medical conditions that may pose a risk to your health
- check for information concerning the safety and security, culture and health risks associated with a visit to your selected destination etc.
This will include access to government and travel websites to ensure there is no civil unrest/war/natural diasaters etc. (unless that is part of your job to visit these areas) when completing the risk assessment.
A risk assessment and safe system of work should include taking your family and they can advise on what controls you should consider and precautions to take, but ultimately your family are your responsibilty.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Employers have no duties under UK H&S law towards people working abroad. They and you will be subject to the legislation of the country you are working in.
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Rank: Forum user
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I think this is an interesting post and I'm really interested in what areas of the family's life you think the employer should (or might) be responsible for?
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Rank: Super forum user
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A lot depends on the specific country and local culture. Some examples where employers with experience of overseas assignments do take responsibility for family H&S hazards & controls, as well as those to their employee include: health risks, from both climate and wildlife that are new to the family; safe and secure accommodation (e.g. a gated compound in extreme cases); road safety training; proactive social support to reduce mental health issues - living in a different culture can be unexpectedly difficult, even where there are no language issues.
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