Workplace Legislation Flashcards
Name some examples of workplace legislation
Health and Safety at work act 1974
Data Protection act 1984 and 1998
Computer misuse act 1990
Copyright, designs and patents act 1988
Freedom of information act 2000
Under the health and safety at work act 1974 what must employers do?
Provide a safe place of work
Provide safe equipment and ongoing maintenance
Provide information and training on safety
Provide written health and safety policy
Under the health and safety at work act 1974 what must employees do?
Take reasonable care for the safety of themselves and other people
Cooperate with employer on health and safety matters
Report any faults or hazards immediately
What are the main principles of the data protection act 1984 and 1998?
Data must be obtained fairly and lawfully
Data must be accurate and kept up to date
Data must be held securely
Data must be used for registered and lawful purpose
Individuals should be allowed access to their data
What are the three offences covered under the computer misuse act 1990?
No unauthorised access of computer material
No unauthorised access with with intent to commit an offence
No unauthorised changes to computer material
Describe the copyright, designs and patents act 1988
This act is designed to ensure that exclusive ownership is maintained and that no unauthorised copying of materials takes place
Describe the freedom of information act 2000
This act states that:
Public authorities are obliged to publish certain information about their activities
Members of the public are entitled to request information from public authorities
What are the consequences of breaching data handling legislation?
Provide customers with inaccurate information - bad customer service
Possible legal sanctions eg fines or prosecution
Consequences of breaching health and safety legislation
Employers:
HSE (responsible for enforcing workspace health and safety legislation) can shut down premises/ impose a fine
Employees:
Dealt with by organisations disciplinary procedure through written or verbal warnings, suspension or prosecution
How can employers communicate legal requirements to employees?
Induction training
Notice boards and posters
Staff meetings
