The duty of care on the part of employers is a fundamental principle in labor law and plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, healthy and pleasant working environment. This duty places responsibility on employers to take the necessary measures to protect the physical and mental health of employees. But what exactly does this duty of care entail, and how does it contribute to your well-being in the workplace. More info...
What is an employer's duty of care?
The duty of care means that employers are required to ensure that the work environment is safe and healthy. This includes:
- Physical security: Workplaces must be free of hazards that could cause accidents or injury.
- Health and wellness: Preventing physical and mental strain, such as stress, workload or burnout.
- Prevention: Act proactively to identify and mitigate risks.
This duty of care is set forth in the Working Conditions Act (Occupational Health and Safety Act), which provides specific guidelines for employers to manage risks in the workplace.
Important aspects of the duty of care
1. Safe working environment
- Employers should provide ergonomic workstations that minimize physical strain.
- Machinery, tools and other equipment must be well maintained and safe to use.
- Workers must be trained to perform their duties safely.
2. Prevention of psychosocial workload (PSA).
- Employers should actively address work stress and other psychosocial risks, such as bullying or discrimination.
- There must be policies in place that protect employees from mental exhaustion and burnout.
3. Health Surveillance
- Employers should offer employees the opportunity to obtain a preventive medical examination (PMO) undergo.
- Regular evaluation of work processes and conditions to reduce health risks.
4. Reintegration
In the event of illness or disability, the employer is responsible for supporting the employee's return to work, such as through a reintegration plan.
How does the duty of care contribute to your well-being?
1. Prevents physical complaints
- Providing ergonomically designed workstations and training in correct working postures significantly reduces the likelihood of complaints such as back pain, neck pain and RSI.
2. Lowers work stress
- Addressing work pressure and encouraging a healthy work-life balance help prevent stress and burnout.
3. Encourages involvement
- Employees feel valued and motivated when they perceive that their employer pays attention to their well-being.
4. Improves performance
- A healthy and safe work environment increases employee productivity and satisfaction.
Examples of duty of care in practice
1. Relaxation opportunities in the workplace
- Offering massage chairs from MediRelaxa in break rooms helps employees reduce muscle tension and stress.
- Break structures that encourage employees to exercise and relax regularly.
2. Prevention Policy
- Regular RI&E (Risk Inventory and Evaluation). To identify and address work-related risks.
- Introduction of training on safe working practices, stress management and time management.
3. Absenteeism support
- Offer flexible work options during reintegration, such as part-time work or working from home.
- Collaboration with occupational physicians and occupational health services to promote safe recovery.
Employee tips: exercise your rights
As an employee, you have the right to take advantage of your employer's duty of care. Here are some tips:
- Communicate your needs: Indicate when you feel overwhelmed by work pressure or experience physical symptoms.
- Call for support: Inquire about ergonomic tools or training available.
- Take advantage of preventive care: Participate in medical examinations or wellness programs offered by your employer.
- Report risks: Report dangerous situations or unsafe work practices to your supervisor immediately.
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About MediRelaxa
MediRelaxa fixes your back pain and mobility while you experience ultimate relaxation at your home or office.
We are based in Westerlo, Belgium and deliver our massage chairs throughout Europe.
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