Christmas is just around the corner and very soon Santa’s little helpers will be looking for a chance to earn some extra pennies.
If you’re after an additional pair of hands at this busy time, or you’ve been asked to help a friend with some work experience for their youngster, it’s a good opportunity for your business to make the most of the increased workforce. And all for relatively little outlay, too.
A word of warning though: cheap or free labour at Christmas comes with a caveat. If you’re not properly prepared when taking on more (or indeed any) staff, you could find the seasonal goodwill in pretty short supply. That's why you need to put temporary worker insurance on your list.
Mistletoe and fines
You might not be aware of this but the welfare of anyone working for you, paid or unpaid; temp or permanent, is your responsibility. Both legally and morally.
For the time they’re with you, the health and safety of your seasonal assistants is considered as important as your permanent employees. Common sense, sure, but it goes a little deeper than that.
You’re controlling when and where they work, and supplying the materials and equipment they use. If they’re injured or get ill while working for you, they could say it's your fault and claim against you for damages. If they do, the law will consider them as your employees.
And so, as an employer, (and to protect both you and your staff) you need to have employers’ liability insurance. The Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 says you should have it – and you can be fined £2,500 for any day that you don’t.
There are some exceptions, however, and in certain cases temporary worker insurance needn't be a concern for you. If you’re not absolutely certain you need it, have a read of the HSE’s guide for employers.
Temporary worker insurance for peace of mind
If your business already has employer’s liability insurance, we’d recommend letting your insurer know you’re taking on extra help. You never know – they might carry a risk that your insurers should be aware of. Making sure they’re in the loop keeps them happy and your business covered.
Christmas can be an expensive and stressful time of year: don’t make it any worse by cutting corners where temporary worker insurance is concerned. Yule be sorry if you do …
Image used under license from Shutterstock.
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