New rules and lockdowns
On the up. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases is rising rapidly. This has resulted in local lockdowns and area-specific rules being applied. At the time of going to print there was growing talk of another national lockdown if the rate of transmission didn’t fall.
Warning. A recruitment drive has been launched to bring in additional environmental health staff and “COVID-19 Secure Marshals” to enforce coronavirus rules and restrictions.
Is it time to go back? With the increased cases and additional enforcement risk, you may want to consider keeping staff working at home for the time being. This will minimise the likelihood of having to prove that your workplace is “COVID-Secure”. In any event, on 22 September the government reverted to its ”work from home if you can” message.
Tip. Failing to maintain a “COVID-Secure” premises can lead to fines being imposed (see The next step ). Make sure you’re aware of any local restrictions as well as the national rules. Tip. If you are back in your premises, although it may be tempting to start to relax coronavirus rules in your workplace, now is really not the time to do it (see The next step ).
No parties! Restrictions came into effect on 14 September 2020 affecting social gatherings by imposing the “Rule of six”. This doesn’t affect how many you have in your office, school, shop, etc. but does apply if you operate an indoor hospitality venue.
Tip. If you run a hospitality business it may be tempting to look at ways to get around these rules to accommodate larger groups, e.g. taking multiple bookings of six, but we’d advise against this.
For a link to the latest sector guides (England) and a coronavirus risk assessment - return to work, visit https://www.tips-and-advice.co.uk, Download Zone, year 19, issue 02.
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