A recent study by More Than Business has found that around three quarters of sole traders have said that they are unaware of changes made by the government over a year ago requiring businesses employing seasonal and part time staff to have adequate employers' liability insurance.
The research found that almost a quarter of those surveyed said that they did not understand what such insurance policies cover.
Around 50,000 sole traders employ seasonal and part time staff without adequate cover, risking up to £125 million a day. Individual businesses face fines of up to £2,500 a day and are liable for compensation and legal fees if an employee is injured or becomes ill at work.
Our view
Most employers should be well aware of their obligations and indeed with many commercial premises insurance e.g. office insurance you receive a package including employers liability cover.
You have been warned though, if you do not have the cover you need to get it sorted. Employers are required to display a copy of their certificate of Employers Libility Insurance at your place of work. If you think your employer has not arranged cover you should raise it with them.