Following the government’s announcements of changes to social distancing at work rules, it is important that employers remember firstly that these changes happen on the 4th of July and not before and secondly make themselves aware of the changes.
The government have published a summary of the changes within the workplace which set out what employers and employees should and should not do.
With the exception of any organisations listed within the guidance on closing businesses and venues, the government has not required any other businesses to close to the public – it is important for businesses to carry on.
People who can work from home should continue to do so.
Employers should decide, in consultation with their employees, whether it is viable for them to continue working from home. Where it is decided that workers should come into their place of work then this will need to be reflected in the risk assessment and actions taken to manage the risks of transmission in line with this guidance.
All workers who cannot work from home should travel to work if their workplace is open.
Workplaces should be set up to meet the new COVID-19 Secure guidelines before operating. These will keep you as safe as possible while allowing as many people as possible to resume their livelihoods. In particular, workplaces should ensure employees can socially distance from each other, or have implemented robust mitigation measures where distancing is not possible, and wash their hands regularly. Businesses should maintain 2m distancing wherever possible.
At all times, workers should follow the guidance on self-isolation.
If workers or anyone in their household (or support bubble), shows coronavirus symptoms, they must follow guidance on self-isolation. They should not go into work if they are showing symptoms, or if they or any of their household (or support bubble) are self-isolating. This is consistent with advice from the Chief Medical Officer.
There is specific guidance in relation to work carried out in other people’s homes.
Specific guidance in relation to work carried out in other peoples homes applies to, for example, tradespeople carrying out repairs and maintenance, cleaners, or those providing paid-for childcare in a child’s home.
The government’s full guidance can be read here.]
