Intellectual property is a generic term which encompasses all expressions of human creativity.
In general, IPRs are monopoly rights to use the intellectual property. There are many different ways in which rights may be asserted. Some of these are automatic, some require formal registration to achieve protection. In any case, it is for the owner of these rights to police for infringement. In the UK, employees are subject to the provisions of the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 and the Patents Act 1977.