Question 1:
What is the new clause on cleaning outward-facing windows?
Answer 1:
Effective from 1 January 2017, the Standard Employment Contract (“SEC”) for FDHs includes a new clause on cleaning outward-facing windows to safeguard the occupational safety of FDHs. The new clause stipulates that, when an employer requires the FDH to clean the outside of any window which is not located on the ground level or adjacent to a balcony (on which it must be reasonably safe for the helper to work) or common corridor, this must be performed under the following conditions:
The revised SEC with the new clause added should be used for all contracts signed on or after 1 January 2017.
1. | The window being cleaned is fitted with a grille which is locked or secured in a manner that prevents the grille from being opened; and |
2. | No part of the FDH’s body extends beyond the window ledge except the arms. |
The revised SEC with the new clause added should be used for all contracts signed on or after 1 January 2017.