Reviewed and updated July 2026.
Many employers assume that once staff leave their usual workplace, whether to attend a training session, a conference, or even to pick up materials for a meeting, their responsibility ends. But UK law is clear: employer duty of care extends to all work-related activities, wherever they take place1.
This duty applies to all workers, not just office staff. However, it is often most overlooked for employees who rarely work off-site, such as administrative teams or other desk-based roles. Office staff are used here as an illustrative example, but the principles apply across all sectors.
Legal duty of care
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers must ensure, “so far as is reasonably practicable,” the health, safety, and welfare of employees1. Journeys to training venues, conferences, or client sites are considered work-related activities2. Failure to manage off-site risks can lead to fines, legal action, or compensation claims. Even employees who only occasionally work off-site are protected by law1.
Everyday office examples of off-site work
- Attending training workshops or conferences
- Travelling to collect materials or refreshments for meetings
- Visiting client offices or partner sites
Even brief or occasional trips are covered by the employer’s duty of care1. Similar responsibilities apply to other roles that occasionally leave their usual workplace.
Why employers often overlook off-site safety
- Off-site work seems “low risk” or informal
- Staff may only occasionally work off-site, so employers forget to treat these activities with the same care as their usual workplace
- Lack of awareness about HSE guidance for off-site work
Even for office staff, this oversight can have serious consequences.
Practical steps for employers
1. Conduct pre-activity risk assessments
2. Communicate clearly with staff
3. Provide necessary protections
4. Plan travel and manage fatigue2
5. Review insurance and reporting3
These steps apply to all employees, regardless of how often they work off-site.
Off-site doesn’t mean “off the hook”
The duty of care applies to all workers, but it is most commonly overlooked for those who rarely leave their usual workplace. Using office employees as an example highlights this risk, but the principles are universal.
Proactively assessing risks, communicating clearly, and implementing safety measures protects employees, reduces liability, and demonstrates compliance with UK health and safety law.
Please note: This blog provides general health and safety guidance for UK workplaces. Following these steps does not guarantee legal compliance. To conduct a full health and safety self-assessment today, use our Health & Safety 360° Guide 2026/2027.
References
1 Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
2 Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Driving and riding safely for work: plan and manage journeys
