Advice for employers

This advice is summarised from the Government document, ‘Our Plan to Rebuild’, the HSE and the Society of Occupational Medicine Health Professionals’ Guides. The aim has been to provide a simple check list for HR and management to enable safe working conditions for employees on their return to the workplace.

Social distance meeting

Covid infection should be treated just like any other hazard in the workplace using a stepwise programme of eliminate, substitute, minimise exposure and maximise good hygiene.

  • Make a risk assessment considering the nature of work, the workplace environment, risk of virus exposure. This should then be shared with all employees and their representatives.
  • Home working is still the preferred option. However, if this is not possible then consider reducing risk by mechanising processes.
  • Consider access to work; avoid public transport if possible.
  • Compliance checks.

Minimise exposure by separating employees;

  • Staggered entry and exit times
  • Restructuring the workplace, eating back to back, using tape to define 2 metre rule, use of Perspex screens
  • Using fixed zones for fixed teams and minimising shared workspaces
  • Social distancing by 2 metres preferably
  • Attention to timing of lunch breaks and seating in canteens. Traffic lights for use of toilet facilities
  • Increased use of Covid 19 safety precaution signage
  • Clear guidance on self-isolation policy if employee or household member symptomatic

Maximise personal hygiene and temperature checks prior to entering workplace.

  • Regular hand washing and use of hand sanitiser
  • Regular cleaning of work equipment and frequently touched surfaces with appropriate disinfectant solutions
  • Deep clean of the workplace on regular basis
  • Good infection control. Catch it, kill it, bin it for the use of tissues for coughs and sneezes

Personal protective equipment is not a substitute for the above and should only be considered if there is a specific need defined in the risk assessment. When used the manufacturer’s guidance should be followed.

Involve employees and their representatives in all discussions about workplace changes and encourage them to share their concerns and anxieties about the return to work process. These measures may be in force for many months.

If any employees have any underlying health conditions, fall into the shielded or increased vulnerability groups, or live with a shielded person, then a further individual clinical assessment by occupational health is recommended.

The employer has a duty of care for each employee’s mental and physical wellbeing in any workplace. If you have any concerns, then occupational health can give further guidance.

For further detailed advice contact Workplace Wellness
Risk assessment template: https://www.cipd.co.uk/Images/general-workplace-safety-risk-assessment-example_tcm18-77498.pdf

Connecting you

Putting you in touch with the right experts and business contacts quickly and efficiently

Find out more

Knowledge Sharing

Gain knowledge & inspiration from other business owners

Find out more

Business people shakling hands

Massive momentum

“ESPA have been involved with Inspire for about 4 years. Since the launch of the Elite programme we have gained a massive momentum through both the networking and direct business advice and support. For companies on a growth track, they are a vital partner to have along with you for the ride!”

Colin Blackburn
Director, European Student Placement Agency Ltd

Goldman Sachs logo
In partnership with Goldman Sachs

The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK programme is designed to provide high-quality, practical education and business support to leaders of high-growth small businesses and social enterprises across the country.

Watch video
Grants and grant funding

Grants to fund business growth and innovation are often available but dependent on Government and Local Government priorities. If you are interested in finding out whether your business could be eligible for Grant Funding.

Watch video
x
x

Our Partners

Download your Inspire Meet The Expert Toolkit here

Abacus Associates logo
Apptel Logo
Artemis Clarke
Atkins Limited
BWC logo
Business Against Property
confident cashflow logo
Cereal Partners UK
CSquared
Engage CRM UK
Enquire
ESPA
face2faceHR
PFK Francis clark logo
HR Dept
Intelligent Dialogue
Labyrinth Computers
Lloyds Bank
Longleat
Milsted Langdon
Money Corp
Quantuma LLP
RCC Town Planning Consultancy
Securious - the south west's leading cyber security company
Shaw & Co
Stonegate
SWBF Finance
Wansbroughs
Wessex Fleet
Wiltshire College & University Centre
Wiltshire Council
Wiltshire Friendly Society

Strategic Partners

Apetito
Atkins Limited
Center Parcs
Engage CRM UK
Granted Consultancy
Green Labyrinth
Haines Watts
Knorr-Bremse
Labyrinth Computers
Lloyds Bank
Longleat
Natwest
Securious - the south west's leading cyber security company
Shaw & Co
Smith and Williamson
UWE Bristol
Weston College logo
Wiltshire College & University Centre
Wiltshire Council