Employment Law - Should They Get A Coat?

[kammalla]

Odd little question, A friend who works as a cleaner has enquired as to whether the company should supply them with coats. The company supplies a uniform and staff in other units (who work outside) get coats but the cleaners do not.
My friend claims a Union rep says according to Employment Law they must supply a coat. I doubt this as the job is inside, they only go outside to put rubbish in the bins or walk to another building on campus. can anyone shed any light?

Thanks in advance.

[Old_Geezer]

No expert, but I'd have the same doubts as yourself. If not vital to the job then it would depend on what was in the contract ? And presumably there's no mention of coat supply there.

[EDDIE51]

Only staff who have to work outside have to be supplied with outdoor clothing.
Just going out to the bin does not count.

[buildersmate]

There is no 'law' that legislates for this.
Under H&S legislation, employers are required to provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to assure that staff can operate a safe system of work for particular tasks. And they have a legal obligation to ensure this.
Its a judgement call by the employer as to whether they treat this as a dirty or cold enough job to require a coat - some will, some won't.