Tackling Equestrian HR Challenges

With summer in full swing, there are a number of important HR matters to address in order to ensure a smooth season.

From managing seasonal staff to handling workplace disputes, or simply ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, streamlining your HR processes makes life easier for you and can reduce the risk of costly legal issues.

Here's a guide to some of the key HR tasks you should be thinking about during the summer.

Seasonal Staff – Right to Work and DBS Checks

During the summer months yards may need to hire seasonal staff to fill particular needs such as competitions, camps or other general vacancies. As with all workers, you must ensure that seasonal staff have the legal right to work in the UK . It is also important to carry out DBS checks if required, particularly for staff working with vulnerable individuals or children.

Updating Contracts and Handbooks

Where new employees are joining the team, it is important to ensure that your employment contracts Land policies remain updated and that they continue to serve the interests of your yard. Contracts and staff handbooks ensure that new or existing staff have clear expectations of their role and responsibilities and will help to reduce any future misunderstandings.

At Wright Hassall , we offer expert legal support in tailoring employment contracts, ensuring that your documents reflect the latest employment laws and best practices in the equestrian industry, as well as the needs of your organisation.

Working Hours and Breaks – Don't Miss the Fine Print

Summer can be a busy time for equestrians, but it’s important to monitor working hours to ensure staff receive the correct rest breaks and time off . Whilst the days may be longer during summer, workers remain entitled to statutory rest periods.

By reviewing your rota system and ensuring it aligns with the legal guidelines, you can avoid unnecessary disputes or fatigue-related issues. If you need guidance on what the law requires, Wright Hassall LLP offers expert advice on managing working hours and rest periods effectively.

Training and Development for New and Existing Staff

With new staff joining during the summer season, it's an excellent opportunity to ensure that both existing and temporary workers are up-to-date with their training. Consider key areas like handling horses, operating machinery, transporting horses or understanding the yard’s health and safety protocols.

It is important to review your health and safety procedures to ensure staff welfare is prioritised. Working outside for long periods of time its important to ensure that staff stay hydrated and use sun protection and so, providing access to water and shaded areas for breaks is important. Clear protocols for heat-related illness as well as first aid training and equipment for use are also advisable.

How Wright Hassall can assist you

If you’re unsure about any of the points raised in this article or would like further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can provide expert advice tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you have the right processes in place for a successful and stress-free summer season.

About the Equestrian Employers Association

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