This is a covid-19 update for business.
Timeline of changes:
17th January – Extension of booster scheme and Shortening of self-isolation
16 and 17 year olds can now book a booster dose online. Parents and guardians of people at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 between 12 to 15 years old, or those living with people at higher risk, will also be contacted to book a booster.
You can stop self-isolating at the start of day 6 if you get 2 negative rapid lateral flow test results on days 5 and 6 and do not have a temperature. Tests must be at least 24 hours apart. If either test is positive, wait 24 hours before testing again.
19th January – Removal of requirement to work from home
You are no longer asked to work from home if you can. Talk to your employer to agree arrangements to return to your workplace.
20th January Removal of face masks in secondary schools and colleges
Staff and pupils in secondary schools and colleges will not be required to wear a face covering in classrooms.
27st January – Removal of mandatory face masks and NHS COVID pass
You will not be required to wear a face covering, including in communal areas of schools, but the government suggests you continue to wear one in crowded and indoor spaces where you may come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
You’ll no longer need to show your NHS COVID Pass at venues and events by law.
Business Owners and Managers be aware!
COVID-19 is still classed as a reasonably foreseeable hazard within the workplace so in order to help combat this you should review your risk assessment your property and business to work out the relevant control measures to be put in place.
Key points for you to consider include:
Risk Assessment – Complete and update COVID risk assessments reviewing the latest changes mentioned above don’t forget to update changes to control measures – use the risk assessment to judge which controls are appropriate such as:
- Social Distancing
- Face Coverings
- Home/Hybrid Working
- Whilst no longer mandatory consider if it is still viable and the effects that changes may bring e.g. mental health issues
- Cleaning Regimes (does it need to be increased in frequency) – Does this need to be stepped up with staff returning?
- Ventilation – The tool available at https://breathefreely.org.uk/ventilation-tool/ is supplied by British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) to help you self-assess “if my ventilation is good enough”
Communication – How are you getting updates out to staff?
- Maintain regular briefings
- Create an environment of support and openness for Managers and staff
- Use Park City’s resources to support your communication
- Don’t forget suppliers and customers
Complacency – Once all is in place how are you planning to avoid the negative effect of complacency whilst restrictions have been lifted?
- In the short term maintain Covid awareness and best practice.
Further changes – such as further reduction/removal of the self isolation have already been hinted toward by the Health Secretary.
We will continue to update and support you as more changes are announced
If you need additional support contact our office or your lead Consultant.
Never Alone Stronger Together with Park City.