Under the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, most businesses that employ people must hold employers' liability insurance with a limit of at least £5 million. In practice most policies are written at £10 million.
The Health and Safety Executive can fine businesses up to £2,500 for every day they do not have suitable cover.
Who counts as an employee?
Employees include full-time, part-time, temporary and casual staff. For insurance purposes, labour-only subcontractors who work under your direction and use your equipment are usually treated as employees too. Bona fide subcontractors who supply their own materials and insurance are normally treated separately.
Common employee claims in cleaning
- Slips, trips and falls
- Manual handling and back injuries
- Dermatitis and respiratory problems from cleaning chemicals
- Falls from ladders and steps
- Hand-arm vibration from floor machines