C6.3 Work Environment and Staff Wellbeing
Policy
Practice
Policy
It is the policy of QMB to:
a) Provide a working environment that is safe and comfortable
b) Provide a work culture which is supportive and minimises the effects of workplace stress.
Practice
C6.3.1 The Executive Manager will ensure that employees work in conditions that are safe, comfortable and without short- or long-term risks to their health and safety. In particular, he or she will ensure that the workplace is:
· clean, tidy and free from obstruction, including trailing cables and other trip hazards.
· well-maintained
· at a comfortable temperature
· properly ventilated, with a source of fresh air
· properly lit, preferably by natural light
· not excessively cramped or overcrowded
· free from the effects of passive smoke and other fumes
C6.3.2 The Facilities Manager will ensure that the workplace is provided with welfare facilities that include:
· toilets that are clean and well-ventilated and in adequate numbers for comfort and privacy
· washing facilities including hot water, soap and towels
· a supply of wholesome drinking water (mains water or bottled)
· secure storage for personal belongings and coats
· rest areas that provide an alternative to the normal workstation, particularly for pregnant women and nursing mothers
C6.3.3 All staff with a line-management responsibility will be encouraged to be alert to work-related stress among their employees. Staff Wellbeing information is available at https://hr.qmul.ac.uk/wellbeing and specific training sessions from the Queen Mary Human Resources Department – Organisational and Professional Development https://profdev.qmul.ac.uk/
C6.3.4 Health Surveillance and monitoring needs will be assessed by the line manager in conjunction with the staff member. Where health surveillance or monitoring is required Queen Mary Occupational Health will be contacted to provide assistance and advice (see https://hr.qmul.ac.uk/occupational-health )
C6.3.5 A Pregnancy risk assessment (see appendix 5) for a new and expectant mother will be completed by the staff member and their line manager, and where identified as necessary, forwarded to Queen Mary Occupational Health to provide assistance and advice.
C6.3.6 Workplace stress and general well-being will be discussed in staff 1-2-1 meetings. Line managers will respond supportively and positively wherever problems are identified.
C6.3.7 Staff will be encouraged to seek confidential advice and assistance for their wellbeing and to help balance work, personal and family life – access details are at https://connected.qmul.ac.uk/staff-support-hub/wellbeing/workplace-support/employee-assistance-programme/
C6.3.8 The Executive Manager will ensure that access to confidential mental health first aid support is available to QMB employees. The Queen Mary staff network of Mental Health First Aiders is accessible at https://hr.qmul.ac.uk/wellbeing/workplace-support/mental-health-first-aid.
