Workplace Legislation

Question 1

Outline features of the:
• Computer Misuse Act
• Copyright, Designs and Patents Act

4 Marks

Answer 1

Computer Misuse Act -

• Hacking or attempting to hack computer systems is illegal, whether or not the hack is successful
• Gaining unauthorised access to systems with intent to view/modify/delete files or software is illegal
• Purposely spreading malicious software/malware is illegal

Copyright, Designs and Patents Act -

• Gives the creators of media (books, movies, music, software) rights over how their work is used and distributed
• Network licenses need to be purchased before software is made available on a network
• Reproduction of training manuals, textbooks etc without an appropriate license/permission is illegal
• Copying of software (e.g. on to pen drives) for distributing to staff is illegal

Question 2

Discuss the methods that could be used by an organisation to inform staff of any changes to workplace legislation.

6 Marks

Answer 2

E-mail -

• Time saved as all staff can be contacted at once through a group e-mail
HOWEVER
• No guarantee staff have familiarised themselves with the e-mail or attachments

Notice Board/Posters -

• These can provide information, procedures and warnings to staff in an eye-catching manner• They are constantly on display to staff for reference purposes
HOWEVER
• Information likely to be missed by those who work remotely

Staff meetings -

• Questions can be asked for clarification purposes’ presentation software could be used to enhance points’ printout of slides can be issued to staff for reference at a later date
HOWEVER
• Could be time-consuming to organise and takes up productivity time

Question 3

Outline strategies that should be covered at a bank staff meeting to ensure compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDRPR).

TIP - Many of the strategies apply for all businesses that collect customer information.

4 Marks

Answer 3

• Staff should not repeat confidential data/information when talking on the phone to customers, ask customer to repeat the numbers
• Staff should take time between customers to tidy away documents
• Any paper notes taken should be destroyed
• Papers with customer information should be filed when not in use
• Locked filing cabinets for storage of customer files
• Customers should not be able to view staff screen - lock screen when away from desk

Question 4

Describe the consequences of breaching legislation for the organisation and the employee.

4 Marks

Answer 4

Organisation -

• May attract unwanted media attention
• May close down or be closed down
• Company reputation may be damaged resulting in loss of sales
• Existing customers switching to a rival
• Difficult to attract high quality candidates in the recruitment process

Employee -

• Dismissed/contract terminated for misconduct
• A poor reference could make it difficult to get a new job
• Demoted by removing responsibility
• Receive a formal verbal/written warning held on record leading to stress/guilt/demotivation

Question 5

Describe the measures an organisation could take to ensure it complies with health and safety legislation regarding the use of IT in the workplace.

6 Marks

Answer 5

• Assess any risks related to employees using IT equipment - and take whatever action is required to minimise or eliminate risks
• Ensure all employees receive relevant training in the use of IT equipment and procedures – updating this training regularly as required
• IT equipment is regularly checked and maintained to ensure that it is safe to use with regards to wiring/plugs
• Provide any necessary additional equipment ie wrist rests, ergonomic desks and seating to prevent injury to employees
• Allow employees to take regular breaks if working with IT equipment for extended periods of time - this will avoid eye-strain, neck/back strain and fatigue
• Offer, on request, regular eye tests for employees who work with IT regularly.