Agency workers

All workers are entitled to work in an environment where the risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. If you are an agency worker then your health and safety is protected by law and your employment agency has a duty to make sure that they follow the law.

HSE has published guidance, aimed at employment businesses and businesses that use agency workers. Find out how they should be managing your health and safety.

Your health your safety: A guide for workers will tell you more.

• You have a duty to take reasonable care for your own health and safety and that of other people who may be affected by your actions at work.
• You must co-operate with your employment agency, the business where you are working, and your co-workers to help everyone meet their legal requirements.
• If it is necessary for protecting your health, you must be given personal protective equipment, such as gloves, face masks, hard hats or safety shoes. This should be made available to you free of charge. You must be trained to use it and the equipment must fit you properly. It is your responsibility to use it in line with the training you receive, and to inform the person that provided the equipment if it is lost or damaged.
• If using a computer screen is a significant part of your job then you are entitled to a DSE (Display Screen Equipment) assessment to make sure you are using it correctly.
• You are entitled to a rest break of at least 20 minutes if you work more than six hours at a stretch. You are also entitled to an annual period of paid holiday. Find out more about Working Time.