Employers and employees should still play a role in protecting themselves from the spread of Covid-19 within the workplace.
Employees should now be encouraged, by their employer, to return to the workplace if required to do so.
It is no longer a legal requirement to wear a face covering in enclosed areas but people are advised to do so.
Isolation
Anyone who tests positive for Covid-19 is no longer legally required to isolate, regardless of their vaccination status. It is still advised to avoid contact with other people and stay at home.
Testing
There is currently no law to say that staff must self-test for Covid-19. Some employers may introduce testing in their workplace policy.
You should still get Rapid Lateral Flow tests (LFT’s) if you work with anyone who is high risk from getting seriously ill with Covid-19. Examples are:
- hospitals
- care homes
- prisons
- immigration removal centres (IRCs)
- schools for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
LFT’s should also be used for the following reasons:
- You are eligible for new Covid-19 treatments
- You visit someone that is at higher risk of getting seriously ill with Covid-19
Vaccination
The Coronavirus Vaccine is now available in England, Scotland and Wales through the NHS. Staff should be supported by their employers to get the vaccine. There is currently no law to say that people must have the vaccine and there may also be some people who should not receive the vaccine due to health reasons.
Good Ventilation
Simple steps such as opening windows, can help reduce the spread of Covid-19 in a workplace.
Cleaning
As Covid-19 can still transmit from people to surfaces, cleaning is key. An employer should take reasonable steps to protect its workers from Covid-19 such as ensuring people are provided with adequate facilities to help control the risk.
Hygiene should be maintained by frequent handwashing and using hand sanitiser around the workplace and surfaces that are kept clean.
Advice for Workplaces - Health and Safety Executive
Working safely through Coronavirus - Gov.uk