Some of our guys have asked for gym equipment to be set up at the workplace which, in essence is a good idea and fits with our culture of health and wellbeing. However, this would be unmanned and I am looking for any legal, health and safety or liability implications arising from this. The employees would be exercising in their own time so it wouldn't be work related. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

Hi Hilary Can I ask a question. Why do your guys feel they need a company gym? why can't they just go to a local gym, or do they just not want to pay the fees for using that one? Also surely if the company is supplying the equipment does it come under work equipment then you could be liable for potential injuries. Mike

Hi Hilary If you do a search at the top of the page for Gym and you will find pages of info and a few good links. Ultimately equipment as per PUWER, Induction signed and registered, even then you will need you insurance company informed and they will give their advice/ put your insurance up. Then HR need to have a good look if someone injures themselves at the Gym will the IP get paid and supported. On the other hand I’ve seen company’s turn a blind eye to it all.

Alan I have looked at the gyms in the area and found some with good prices (and corporate rates), local to work and I should like to recommend these as an alternative, however, I also need some justifiable reason for not putting gym equipment on site. I have considered injury, cleaning and maintenance of the facilities, insurance cover, I just wondered if anyone had any experience of this sort of thing ....