Outcome 2 The Work Environment

Why is layout important? We are all affected by our surroundings Our workplace affects how we feel Bad surroundings can make us feel sad, stressed or ill Good surroundings can make us feel comfortable, happy and energised Ergonomics is the study of how our surroundings affects the way we feel

Office Layout Cellular: separate offices located off corridors smaller enclosed spaces good for holding meetings doors can be locked to help with security staff may feel cut-off from colleagues difficult for managers to supervise

Office Layout Open Plan one large area without dividing walls screens and plants use to section off staff feel part of a team easy for managers to supervise can be noisy with lots of distractions difficult to have private conversations

Other work spaces Carrel workstation inside a screened booth Touchdown area work surface used for short-stay ICT tasks Hot Rooms meeting rooms which are pre-booked

Flexible Work Practices Any work arrangement which is not full time ie 9-5, 5 days each week Part time Flexi-time Job share Tele-working Hot-desking

Part-time Working hours which are shorter than 41 hours each week Could be 3 days a week or mornings only

Flexi-time Core time must be worked eg 10 am – 4 pm Flexi-time is 9 am – 10 am and 4 pm – 5 pm Flexi-time can be used for personal business eg appointments Time must be made up by working late

Job Share One job is split between 2 workers Each can work half the week or work alternate weeks All benefits such as holidays and pay are also split

Teleworking Working outside the office using ICT: at home while travelling in a hotel while on business

Hot-desking workstation which is booked in advance for employees who do not require a desk full time used by home workers on days in office

Contracts of Employment Contract of Employment Act 1972 Contract must show: Names and addresses of employer and employee Job title and when started Hours of work, number of holidays and rate of pay Sickness benefits and pension arrangements Rules and procedures for grievance How much notice needs to be given on both sides

Types of Contract Temporary – not indefinite Permanent – no end date Fixed Term – has an end date Full-time – usually 41 hours per week Part-time – less than 41 hours per week

Health and Safety Covered during induction to the firm Firm must have a H & S policy statement Both employer and employee have responsibilities for safety

Security The building must be secure Visitors must be checked Information must be made secure Accidents and incidents must be logged

Legislation Fire Precautions (Places of Work) Regs 1995 H&S (Display Screen Equipment) Regs 1992 H&S (First Aid) Regs 1981