The growth of the gig economy and the increasing reliance on agency and temporary workers have transformed the modern workforce. While these flexible arrangements offer many opportunities for both businesses and workers, they also present unique challenges, especially regarding health and safety. As more people take on short-term roles, it is crucial for employers, workers, and those supplying labour to understand their responsibilities and ensure that everyone remains safe on the job.
Workers are as likely to have an accident in their first 6 months at work as they are during the whole of their working life.
This increased risk is because of:
- lack of experience working in a new industry or workplace`
- being unfamiliar with the job and the work environment
- not wanting to raise concerns and not knowing how to
- eagerness to impress workmates and managers
This means workers new to a workplace may:
- not recognise hazards as a potential source of danger
- not understand ‘obvious’ rules for equipment use
- not be familiar with site layout – especially where site hazards may change from day to day
- ignore warning signs and rules, or cut corners
With many short-term roles being filled at this time of year, employers must protect the health and safety of gig economy, agency and temporary workers.
To help organisations protect those who are new to their roles, the HSE has published a Six-Step action plan for employers to consider.
For additional guidance on protecting the health and safety of gig economy, agency and temporary workers, please click here. The official HSE website provides comprehensive information to help workers, end users, and suppliers involved in the gig economy, agency work, and temporary work understand their health and safety responsibilities. Taking the time to review this guidance ensures everyone involved can contribute to a safer and healthier working environment.
