Memorandum from the House of Commons Health
and Safety Committee
1. The House of Commons Health and Safety
Committee asks that the Administration Committee take health and
safety aspects into account in making its recommendations. The
Committee is aware of the need to make the best use of the available
accommodation and would like the following matters to be considered.
2. Reducing the number of offices for staff
may result in overcrowding, which is already a problem in some
areas. It is important that sufficient work space is available
in offices.
3. It is a major cause of staff dissatisfaction
when rest facilities are not available or are taken out of use.
Using cafes as rest areas has limitations. Staff are encouraged
to take breaks from their work stations, for health and safety
reasons. Reducing the number of rest facilities may result in
staff taking fewer breaks, with consequent health problems.
4. The House provides limited sleeping accommodation
for staff who undertake occasional late duties. Concern has been
expressed about there being any reduction in this space.
17 February 2006
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