ECA issues advice on working in smokers' homes

Contractors are being issued guidance on working in domestic properties inhabited by smokers.

The Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) has warned companies they have a duty of care over their employees which extends to labour performed in premises of these types.

It warns the legislation which came into force in July of last year prevented people smoking in workplaces but the nature of these locations does not fall within its parameters.

Among the recommendations it makes to construction and electrical contractors is stipulating in the contract the area must be smoke-free when the work is performed.

Other suggestions include asking for windows or doors to be opened before tradesmen's arrivals, so as to improve ventilations, and offering training to contracting staff so they know they can make reasonable requests to clients.

The Trades Union Congress has recently announced the launch of a campaign to raise awareness of occupational cancers, which general secretary Brendan Barber claims takes between 15,000 and 18,000 a year.