By Mark Callaghan - 29 July 2021
We outline below the health and safety steps that employers should take when reopening their workplace and on a continuing basis as the pandemic continues to develop.
Employers should always consider their own unique circumstances, and act accordingly, but this checklist provides a typical reopening process. It should help employers to ensure that the workplace is "COVID-secure".
For further information on health and safety concerns and queries take a look at our in-depth overview which covers the employers health and safety obligations, risk assessments, workplace adjustments and health testing of employees.
Review the government’s ‘Working Safely During Coronavirus’ guidance which is comprised of the 6 relevant sectorial guidance papers
Clean your workplace thoroughly prior to reopening, and make a plan for further regular cleaning
Update your a specific COVID-19 risk assessment, by identifying hazards, deciding who may be harmed, evaluating the risks, and deciding on suitable precautions
Pay particular attention to the recommendations set out in the guidance when completing your risk assessment
Consult with your workforce (or union representatives if applicable) on your risk assessment and make plans to continue to engage with your workforce as guidance develops
For larger employers (more than 50 employees) share a summary of your conclusions on your website
Implement the measures required by your risk assessment
Display confirmation in your workplace that you have made your workplace COVID-secure
Provide PPE/facemasks to your employees if they request it, or if your risk assessment concludes that you should
At all times, act with reasonable care and ensure the health, safety and welfare of your employees as far as is reasonably practicable
If you or your organisation would like more information about employees returning to work, please get in touch with your usual GQ|Littler contact or email info@gqlittler.com.
