coronavirus summary v63 1205coronavirus (covid-19), for example by putting in place social...

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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Defending ‘stay alert’ and key guidance published Yesterday evening’s press briefing was taken by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, where he was joined by Prof Chris Whitty, chief medical officer for England and chief medical adviser to the UK government, and Sir Patrick Vallance, chief scientific adviser to the UK government. Questions came from both members of the public and the media. During the briefing:

• Boris Johnson defended the UK government's decision to change the “stay at home” message for England, insisting that “stay alert” is “absolutely the right message for our country”

• he sought to explain the message, criticised by many as confusing, saying “we're asking people to stay alert… for the vast majority that means staying at home as much as possible”

• Mr Johnson added that if people in England do not have access to childcare, “then I think it's only fair to regard that as an obvious barrier to their ability to go back to work and I'm sure employers would agree with that”

• Chief Medical Officer for England Pro Chris Whitty said scientists had decided the risk of transmission was “much lower outdoors” than indoors, but that the risk was “not zero”

• Chris Witty said he was “very confident” a solution to coronavirus would be found, but that it would “take time”.

Also yesterday, the government published its COVID-19 recovery strategy, and a raft of guidance aimed at eight different workplace settings which are allowed to be open, from outdoor environments and construction sites to factories and takeaways – more on these below. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said the employers and their staff need to work together to make sure those returning to workplaces feel safe, adding that everybody who can work from home should continue to do so. Latest figures According to figures from Worldometer, there are: Globally: 4,256,729 confirmed 287,355 deaths UK: 223,060 confirmed 32,065 deaths Ireland: 23,135 confirmed 1,467 deaths


Government strategy and workplace guidance The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy An outline to the Government's plan for rebuilding and recovering from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has now been published. The government is proposing a three-step plan. In summary:

1. Step one, starting on Wednesday 13 May: • workers who cannot work from home should travel to work if their workplace is

open, and workplaces should follow new “Covid-19 Secure” guidelines • more vulnerable children, who are already able to attend school, are urged to do so

2. Step two, which will begin no earlier than 1 June: • nurseries and primary schools will begin a phased return. At first this will only

involve early years, reception, and years one and six. But the government's ambition is that all primary school children in England should return to school for a month before the summer

• some businesses will be able to re-open and sporting events will be able to take place behind closed doors - but not hairdressers or beauty salons

• the government is seeking advice on allowing people to expand their household group and examining how small weddings can be better facilitated

3. Step three, which will start no earlier than 4 July: • more businesses will be able to open - although some, which are crowded by design,

will not be able to open. It is stressed that all dates could be delayed if not enough progress is made in tackling the virus, and restrictions could be reintroduced. And the government stress that changes are dependent on the rate of infection staying down. “COVID-19 Secure” guidelines Many measures require the development of new safety guidelines that set out how each type of physical space can be adapted to operate safely. The Government has been consulting relevant sectors, industry bodies, local authorities, trades unions, the Health and Safety Executive and Public Health England on their development. To make workplaces less infectious, the guidelines will promote, for example:

• keeping a distance between people outside their household • keeping the hands and face as clean as possible. Hand sanitiser should be carried when

travelling and applied where available outside the home, especially when entering a building and following contact with surfaces. Clothes should also be washed regularly, as there is some evidence that the virus can stay on fabrics

• limiting the number of people that any given individual comes into contact with regularly. Employers can support this where practical by changing shift patterns and rotas to keep smaller, contained teams. Evidence also suggests the virus is less likely to be transmitted in well-ventilated areas.

Lifting restrictions step-by-step


In terms of work, the key messages in Step 1 include:

• for the foreseeable future, workers should continue to work from home rather than their normal physical workplace, wherever possible

• parts of the economy that are allowed to open should do so, including food production, construction, manufacturing, logistics, distribution and scientific research

• employees in these industries are now asked to return to work but should avoid public transport on their commute where possible

• as soon as practicable, workplaces should follow the new “COVID-19 Secure” guidelines • the advice says that these industries will be asked to follow new “COVID-19 Secure”

guidelines which are set to be published, but will likely include asking employers to take steps to reduce unnecessary contact between workers

• hospitality and other non-essential shops will remain shut during this period. Other measures relate to schools, travel, face coverings, public space, shielding, international travel, and enforcement. Step 2 The Government's current aim is that the second step will be made no earlier than Monday 1 June, subject to conditions being satisfied. The current planning assumption for England is that the second step may include as many of the following measures as possible, consistent with the government's five tests. Organisations should prepare accordingly, it says. The measures cover schools, a phased re-opening of all non-essential retail businesses, cultural and sporting events, and social and family contact. Step 3 The final part of the Government plan is not expected to come into force before 4 July and relies on scientific and medical advisers being satisfied the previous measures have not caused a spike in the infection rate. During this final stage, the government would hope to reopen at least some of the remaining businesses, including personal care (such as hairdressers and beauty salons) hospitality (such as food service providers, pubs and accommodation), public places (such as places of worship) and leisure facilities (like cinemas). They should also meet the COVID-19 Secure guidelines. Workplace Guidance: Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance published by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is for employers to help them get their businesses back up and running and workplaces operating safely. The ‘COVID-19 secure’ guidelines aim to help make workplaces as safe as possible and give people confidence to go back to work during coronavirus pandemic. The documents have been developed in consultation with approximately 250 businesses, unions, industry leaders as well as devolved administrations.


The new guidance covers eight workplace settings which are allowed to be open, from outdoor environments and construction sites to factories and takeaways. Practical steps for businesses are focused on five key points, which should be implemented as soon as it is practical: 1. Work from home, if you can All reasonable steps should be taken by employers to help people work from home. But for those who cannot work from home and whose workplace has not been told to close, our message is clear: you should go to work. Staff should speak to their employer about when their workplace will open. 2. Carry out a COVID-19 risk assessment, in consultation with workers or trade unions This guidance operates within current health and safety employment and equalities legislation and employers will need to carry out COVID-19 risk assessments in consultation with their workers or trade unions, to establish what guidelines to put in place. If possible, employers should publish the results of their risk assessments on their website and we expect all businesses with over 50 employees to do so. 3. Maintain 2 metres social distancing, wherever possible Employers should re-design workspaces to maintain 2 metre distances between people by staggering start times, creating one-way walk-throughs, opening more entrances and exits, or changing seating layouts in break rooms. 4. Where people cannot be 2 metres apart, manage transmission risk Employers should look into putting barriers in shared spaces, creating workplace shift patterns or fixed teams minimising the number of people in contact with one another, or ensuring colleagues are facing away from each other. 5. Reinforcing cleaning processes Workplaces should be cleaned more frequently, paying close attention to high-contact objects like door handles and keyboards. Employers should provide handwashing facilities or hand sanitisers at entry and exit points. A downloadable notice is included in the documents, which employers should display in their workplaces to show their employees, customers and other visitors to their workplace, that they have followed this guidance. The guidance applies to businesses currently open. This also includes guidance for shops which the government believe may be in a position to begin a phased reopening at the earliest from the 1 June. It is noted that guidance for other sectors that are not currently open will be developed and published ahead of those establishments opening to give those businesses time to plan. Working safely during the coronavirus outbreak – HSE advice This HSE guidance is for employers and those who are self-employed and work with or near other people. It may also be useful to workers and their representatives.


During this time of unprecedented disruption, it is important for businesses to operate where it is safe to do so. It is understood working safely during this time is important and this guide is designed to help control the risks associated with running a business at this time. The guidance explains measures that can be taken to help you carry on working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19), for example by putting in place social distancing measures, staggering shifts, providing additional handwashing facilities and how to talk with workers to help them stay safe. Working safely during the coronavirus outbreak - a short guide This HSE guidance covers steps you should take to help manage the risks of coronavirus in your business. These include taking measures to work at home where possible, maintaining social distancing, cleaning and hygiene. This guide is aimed at all employers and those who are self-employed and work with or near other people. It explains how you can protect people from coronavirus (COVID-19) in your workplace, for example by putting in place social distancing measures, staggering shifts and providing additional handwashing facilities. The guidance may also be useful to workers and their representatives. Assessing risk As an employer, you must protect people from harm. This includes taking reasonable steps to protect your workers and others from coronavirus. This is called a risk assessment and it’ll help you manage risk and protect people. You must:

• identify what work activity or situations might cause transmission of the virus • think about who could be at risk • decide how likely it is that someone could be exposed • act to remove the activity or situation, or if this isn’t possible, control the risk.

If you have fewer than five employees, you don’t have to write anything down, but it might help if you do. In terms of 'Talking to your workers' - separate guidance is available to help employers let people know what they need to do to protect themselves - see below. This guidance goes on to cover who should go to work; protecting people who are at higher risk; getting into and leaving work; the work area; moving around; common areas; good hygiene; information and guidance; and PPE.


Talking with your workers about preventing coronavirus This guide is aimed at all employers. It explains how you can talk to your workers about preventing coronavirus (COVID-19) in your workplace, for example by putting in place social distancing measures, staggering shifts and providing additional handwashing facilities. The guidance may also be useful to workers and their representatives, and those who are self-employed and work with or near other people. The law requires all employers to assess the risk of returning to work while the coronavirus outbreak is ongoing and to put steps in place to manage that risk. This guide is designed to help you consult with workers as one part of putting in place measures to manage the risks of coronavirus in the workplace while continuing to work. By talking to your workers, the guidance suggests that you can:

• reassure them by explaining the changes you are making • get their thoughts and ideas about how to change the workplace to keep people safe and to

ensure those changes are workable • continue to operate your business safely during the outbreak.

The guide describes five different themes and suggests questions you can discuss with your workers. They are designed to get you talking with your workers about managing the risks of coronavirus. Actions can then be taken to make sure your plans are working safely, and people have been listened to. You can hold conversations before returning to work so that plans can be developed and put in place before going back. You could then have further discussions soon after return to make sure the actions are working and are being followed. You may also decide to repeat the discussions if something changes, for example: if new guidelines are published; or if lockdown restrictions change. Importantly, the guidance points out that you should make sure that there is time available for managers and workers to have these conversations. The guide relies on both managers and workers having an open and honest conversation. Staying alert and safe (social distancing) This guidance applies in England – people in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland should follow the specific rules in those parts of the UK. The government has set out its plan to return life to as near normal as is possible, for as many people as possible, and as quickly and fairly as possible in order to safeguard livelihoods, but in a way that is safe and continues to protect the NHS. This guidance explains the measures that will help you to stay safe as the response to the challenges of coronavirus continue. Key parts of these measures are underpinned by law 402643, which set out clearly what you must and must not do – every person in the country must continue to comply with this. The relevant authorities, including the police, have the powers to enforce the law – including through fines and dispersing gatherings.


How to wear and make a cloth face covering People in England are being advised to wear face coverings in enclosed spaces where they come into contact with other people – including on public transport. Issued by the Cabinet Office, this guidance emphasises that people should use home-made coverings, not the specialist masks used by healthcare workers, for example. It provides advice on:

• wearing a face covering • making a simple cloth face covering using either a T-shirt or cotton fabric.

Scotland: public use of face coverings The Scottish Government has issued its own advice on this issue – click here https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-public-use-of-face-coverings/ It says that Physical distancing, hand washing and respiratory hygiene, are the most important and effective measures we can all adopt to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Therefore, it is stressed that the wearing of facial coverings must not be used as an alternative to any of these other precautions. Ireland: Return to Work Safely Protocol https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Publication-files/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.pdf Published by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, this Return to Work Safely Protocol is designed to support employers and workers to put measures in place that will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace, when the economy begins to slowly open up, following the temporary closure of most businesses during the worst phase of the current pandemic. Key messages include:

• strong communication and a shared collaborative approach between employers and workers is key to protecting against the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace

• information and guidance should be provided by employers to workers, which should include the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, how it spreads, cleaning routines and waste disposal as well as advice on hand and respiratory hygiene, physical distancing, use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and work equipment where relevant

• employers and workers should have a shared responsibility to implement the measures contained in this protocol in their place of work

• each workplace will appoint at least one lead worker representative charged with ensuring that COVID-19 measures are strictly adhered to in their place of work

• employers will provide a COVID-19 induction training for all workers • a high-level consultative stakeholder forum, under the aegis of LEEF, will be established. This

forum will include membership from the various bodies with responsibility for health and safety at work and for public health more generally.

Under the guidelines, handshakes will be banned, employees’ temperatures will be monitored in line with public health advice, and workers will not be allowed to share items like pens and cups. The HSA can order a business to shut down operations if it doesn’t comply with the measures.


The document notes that:

• employers must: provide for physical distancing across all work activities and this may be achieved in a number of ways; implement a no hand shaking policy

• workers must: not share objects that touch their mouth, for example, bottles or cups; use own pens for signing in.

Ireland: Construction Sector C-19 Pandemic Standard Operating Procedures The Construction Industry Federation has devised a plan which intends to provide a standardised approach to commencing construction projects in Ireland which incorporates the COVID-19 public health requirements This guidance document is intended to introduce standardisation on sites of all sizes in line with the Government’s and HSE recommendations on the management of COVID-19. Every project should devise a plan considering this guidance, for implementation on site in consultation with all affected parties. The normal health and safety requirements of any construction activity must not be compromised at this time – there is no derogation to the usual health and safety legislative requirements, it stresses. Key control measures are set out which are required for managing the spread of the virus on construction projects. Guidance for schools Coronavirus (COVID-19): implementing protective measures in education and childcare settings The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy outlines an “ambition” for all primary school children in England to spend a month back at school before the summer holidays. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that if the level of infection remains low enough, children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 in primary schools might begin to return, from 1 June “at the earliest”. As a result the government is asking schools, colleges and childcare providers to plan on this basis, ahead of confirmation that these tests are met. The advice in this document aims to support staff working in schools, colleges and childcare settings, to deliver this approach in the safest way possible, focusing on measures they can put in place to help limit risk of the virus spreading within education and childcare settings. The guidance addresses the following:

• effective infection protection and control • personal protective equipment (PPE) including face coverings and face masks • shielded and clinically vulnerable children and young people • shielded and clinically vulnerable adults • living with a shielded or clinically vulnerable person • class or group sizes • how to implement protective measures in an education setting before wider opening on 1

June.


Actions for education and childcare settings to prepare for wider opening from 1 June 2020 This guidance sets out how educational and childcare settings should prepare for wider opening from 1 June 2020, including information on:

• year groups in first phase of wider opening • the latest science • managing risk and rate of transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).

It sets out a range of protective measures to ensure education settings remain safe places, including:

• the undertaking of a risk assessment before opening in every setting. The assessment should directly address risks associated with coronavirus (COVID-19), so that sensible measures can be put in place to control those risks for children and staff. All employers have a duty to consult employees on health and safety, and they are best placed to understand the risks in individual settings

• reducing the size of classes and keeping children in small groups without mixing with others • staggered break and lunch times, as well as drop offs and pick ups • increasing the frequency of cleaning, reducing the used of shared items and utilising outdoor

space. Re-opening the Workplace Barbour Resources: Re-opening work premises after COVID-19 – Technical Guide and Director’s Briefing The UK Government is coming under increasing pressure to review their lockdown measures, particularly in terms of the reopening workplaces. Whilst this discussion is evolving, the purpose of this guidance from Barbour is to outline to employers the range of issues that they must consider (where relevant) in preparing their offices, factories and warehouses for reoccupation. The guidance is set out in four main sections:

• Building Safety • Plant and Equipment Safety • Management of Safety • Managing Wellbeing.

It does not cover construction sites, or health and social care activities. These have their own sector specific guidance in place. Existing risk assessments may not cover COVID-19 hazards in sufficient detail, and as such employers may wish to develop a specific risk assessment as part of their reoccupation planning. They must also consider how the key findings and controls from the risk assessment are effectively communicated to staff and other interested parties and how they are implemented. The guidance sets out topic areas that a reoccupation risk assessment might cover.


Director’s Briefing Barbour’s Director’s Briefing addresses some key questions that employers may have around re-opening the workplace following the COVID-19 lockdown:

• I want to reopen my site – where do I start? What issues do I need to think about in terms of building safety? (fire safety; water management; asbestos containing materials; deep cleaning for re-occupation)

• What about plant and equipment safety? • Do I need to make changes to the overall management of safety on site?

Coronavirus (COVID-19): returning to the workplace This guide from the CIPD aims to help with planning an organisation’s next steps following a period of furlough or once lockdown measures start easing. The guide suggests that employers need to plan now for what is likely to be staged return to the workplace over what could be prolonged periods. Their guiding principle should be how organisations take care of their people and safeguard their health and well-being. COVID-19: Back to the workplace – adapting workplaces and protecting workers Published by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EH-OSHA), these guidelines aim to help employers and workers to stay safe and healthy in a working environment that has changed significantly because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes examples of general measures, which depending on the particular work situation, can help employers achieve an appropriate safe and healthy work environment when resuming activities. Ireland: Roadmap for reopening society and business Ireland's Department of the Taoiseach and Department of Health have announced two changes to the restrictions put in place to protect the country from the spread of COVID-19 that came into effect on 5 May. The changes are that:

• people can travel up to 5 kilometres from their home to exercise • those who are cocooning can leave their homes for exercise so long as they avoid all contact

with other people. A Roadmap has been issued, setting out Ireland's plan for lifting COVID-19 restrictions on:

• 18 May (phase 1) • 8 June (phase 2) • 29 June (phase 3) • 20 July (phase 4) • 10 August (phase 5).


Over the five phases, the easing of restrictions is given for:

• Public health measures • Health and social care • Education and childcare • Work • Shops and other commercial businesses • Sport, tourism and culture • Transport and travel.

Health and safety Separately, the Department of the Taoiseach says that a National Protocol to protect the health and safety of workers is being developed by Government, employers and trade unions, with the assistance of the Health and Safety Authority and the HSE. The Roadmap for reopening society and business is available here https://assets.gov.ie/73722/ffd17d70fbb64b498fd809dde548f411.pdf An Overview of the reopening phases is also available; click here https://assets.gov.ie/73794/8c2524e30718418ca6e7ca984c32694e.pdf Government guidance Coronavirus (COVID-19): transport and travel guidance Safer transport guidance for operators This guide is to help organisations, agencies and others (such as self-employed transport providers) understand how to provide safer workplaces and services for themselves, their workers and passengers across all modes of private and public transport. It outlines measures to assess and address the risks of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the transport sector across England. The guidance aims to ensure that stations and services are regularly cleaned, making clear to passengers how to stay 2 metres apart where possible in stations, airports and ports, and to ensure routes for passengers are clearly communicated to avoid crowding. The government’s guidance also sets out steps operators should take to provide safe workplaces and services for their staff and passengers across all modes of private and public transport. Safer travel guidance for passengers This guidance provides advice on how passengers should make journeys safely, following the publication of the government’s roadmap and strategy for the next phase of the pandemic. It urges people to consider cycling, walking or driving to help ensure there is enough capacity for those who need to travel on public transport to do so safely. The advice sets out that if people who cannot work from home and have to travel for work, they should first consider alternatives to public transport. Those driving their own cars have been asked to avoid busy areas.


The guidance includes checklists for safer travel; these cover planning your journey and what to take with you. Relieving pressure on public transport The government has announced plans for boosting active transport, in an attempt to relieve pressure on public transport. Pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements, safer junctions, and cycle and bus-only corridors will be created in England within weeks as part of a £250 million emergency active travel fund - the first stage of a £2 billion investment, as part of the £5 billion in new funding announced for cycling and buses in February. Following unprecedented levels of walking and cycling across the UK during the pandemic, the plans will help encourage more people to choose alternatives to public transport when they need to travel, making healthier habits easier and helping make sure the road, bus and rail networks are ready to respond to future increases in demand. The government will fund and work with local authorities across the country to help make it easier for people to use bikes to get around - including Greater Manchester, which wants to create 150 miles of protected cycle track, and Transport for London, which plans a “bike Tube” network above Underground lines. Statutory guidance for local authorities Fast-tracked statutory guidance, effective immediately, tells councils to reallocate road space for significantly-increased numbers of cyclists and pedestrians. In towns and cities, some streets could become bike and bus-only while others remain available for motorists. More side streets could be closed to through traffic, to create low-traffic neighbourhoods and reduce rat-running while maintaining access for vehicles. Vouchers will be issued for cycle repairs, to encourage people to get their old bikes out of the shed, and plans are being developed for greater provision of bike fixing facilities. Many more will take up the Cycle to Work scheme, which gives employees a discount on a new bike, the government has said. The government as announced that an updated Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy will be launched by the Prime Minister in the summer, with further measures to transform cycling and walking to deliver the government’s aims to double cycling and increase walking by 2025 – including:

• the creation of a national cycling and walking commissioner and inspectorate • higher standards for permanent infrastructure across England • getting GPs to prescribe cycling and exercise • creating a long-term budget for cycling and walking similar to what happens for roads.

The government will also be launching a campaign to encourage more people to look at alternative ways to travel, to walk or get on a bike for their commute instead of public transport.


E-scooter trials will also be brought forward from next year to next month to help encourage more people off public transport and onto greener alternatives. Staggering the commute Further efforts to encourage drivers to make the switch include the upcoming launch of a consultation which hopes to make charging electric vehicles just as easy as filling up a traditional petrol or diesel car. It will explore measures such as requiring rapid charging points – which are fundamental for longer journeys - to offer contactless payment, improving transparency on pricing and giving drivers better access to information about the chargepoints available on their journey. The government says it is also working alongside the tech sector to see how technology could be used to help commuters stagger their journeys and advise on alternative modes of travel.  The statutory guidance is made under section 18 of the Traffic Management Act 2004. Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested You can get a throat and nose swab test for whether you currently have coronavirus. This is part of the 5-pillar strategy for coronavirus testing. Testing is most effective within 3 days of symptoms developing, says the government. Additionally being tested are:

• social care workers and residents in care homes, with or without symptoms, both to investigate outbreaks and, following successful pilots, as part of a rolling programme to test all care homes (see the guidance for care home residents and workers in England)

• NHS workers and patients without symptoms, in line with NHS England guidance. Also being tested is anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus that lives with those identified above. In addition, also being tested are:

• social care workers and residents in care homes (with or without symptoms) both to investigate outbreaks and, following successful pilots, as part of a rolling programme to test all care homes

• NHS workers and patients without symptoms where there is a clinical need, in line with NHS England guidance.

Testing is most effective within 3 days of symptoms developing. Others who can now register for a test also include, police officers, teachers, those in the justice system, transport workers, supermarket and food production workers, public and environmental health staff, journalists and transport workers. This applies to England only.


COVID-19: Government Action Plan for Adult Social Care This plan sets out how the government will support the adult social care sector in England throughout the coronavirus outbreak. It covers how the government plan to:

• control the spread of infection in care settings • support the workforce • support independence, supporting people at the end of their lives, and responding to

individual needs • support local authorities and the providers of care.

PPE Government plan for national effort on PPE A UK-wide plan to ensure that critical personal protective equipment (PPE) is delivered to those on the frontline responding to coronavirus (COVID-19) has been published by Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock. The 3-strand plan aims to provide clear guidance on who needs PPE and when they need it, ensure those who need it can get it at the right time and sets out action to secure enough PPE to last through the crisis. The PHE guidance COVID-19 personal protective equipment (PPE) is available. It covers use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by health and social care workers, in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. It supersedes previous PPE guidance. Considerations for acute personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages A Public Health England document notes that where there are acute shortages of PPE, and where it is safe to do so, the HSE approves the sessional and reuse of PPE. It has agreed that the use as outlined in this document is appropriate within health and safety legislation and provides appropriate protection for health and care workers. It was updated on 3 May to reflect the HSE's position on use of FFP2 respirators:

• HSE has examined the use of FFP2 respirators as an alternative to Type IIR surgical face masks in non-surgical settings

• if risk assessment identifies a need for FFP2 respirators the user must be face fit tested to ensure they are providing the intended level of protection

• in circumstances where a lower level of user protection is required, such as that provided by a surgical mask, an FFP2 worn without a face fit test will offer protection similar to the levels from a surgical face mask

• this is a pragmatic approach for times of severe shortage of respiratory protective equipment (RPE), FFP2 respirators being used in this way will not be carrying out the function they were designed to perform

•


• all healthcare settings are reminded that where their risk assessment has identified the requirement for a tight-fitting respirator users must pass a face fit test for that respirator model before it can be used

• employers and users of respirators need to be assured protective equipment is protecting the wearer.

These are exceptional circumstances and do not reflect HSE’s standard approach. HSE expects Trusts to have an agreed action plan to support implementation which includes a consideration of all measures to manage usage effectively. COVID-19: how to work safely in care homes This guidance is for those working in care homes providing information on how to work safely during this period of sustained transmission of COVID-19. The guidance includes:

• PPE recommendations for care home staff • frequently asked questions on the use of PPE in care homes • examples which help to identify the correct use of PPE when undertaking activities that

require physical contact or activities which do not require physical contact but are carried out in close proximity to residents

• guide to putting on PPE for care homes • guide to taking off PPE for care homes.

It is noted that this guidance is of a general nature and employers should consider the specific conditions of each individual place of work and comply with all applicable legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Government plan to tackle loneliness during coronavirus lockdown The Government has launched a major effort to tackle loneliness and social isolation during the coronavirus outbreak and period of social distancing. Led by Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, the plan will aim to ensure that, for people of all ages and backgrounds, staying at home does not need to lead to loneliness. More information can be found at https://letstalkloneliness.co.uk/ Vulnerable groups Chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty advises that the group of people who should take “particular care to minimise their social contact” are:

• people over the age of 70 • other adults who would normally be advised to have the flu vaccine (such as those with

chronic diseases) • pregnant women.


Stay at home: guidance for households with possible coronavirus (COVID-19) infection Public Health England stay at home guidance is intended for:

• people with symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus, and do not require hospital treatment, who must remain at home until they are well

• those living in households with someone who shows symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus.

COVID-19: staying at home and away from others (social distancing) guidance for young people This guide, aimed at younger people, explains that to stop coronavirus (COVID-19) spreading, everyone should be staying at home as much as possible, described as ‘social distancing’. This guide is about social distancing and what this age group can do whilst staying at home at this time. Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection Recently issued guidance is for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where a member of the household is aged 70 or over, meaning they are at increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus. Clinically vulnerable people include anyone aged 70 or over, as well as those under 70 with an underlying health condition (listed in the guidance). The guidance is also for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where one or more persons have symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus that do not require hospital treatment. Wellbeing and mental health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have issued advice about how to look after wellbeing and mental health for those who cannot return to the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also includes information on how FCO may be able to help, if a British national needs help, if unable to return to the UK from abroad. It advises those in such a position to keep in regular contact with the people who usually offer support, such as family, friends and colleagues, especially if you are self-isolating abroad. Supporting Workers Further information IOSH guidance can be found at https://www.iosh.com/coronavirus The CIPD’s advice pages can be found here https://www.cipd.co.uk/news-views/coronavirus


Acas Advice for Employers Workplace experts Acas have updated their advice for employers on dealing with the coronavirus outbreak. It includes guidance on:

• working safely and social distancing • vulnerable people and those at high risk • self-isolation and sick pay • Furlough and if a workplace has to close • using holiday • if an employee needs time off work to look after someone

if someone has coronavirus symptoms at work It is important, says the advice, for employers and employees to talk as early as possible about when they can return to the workplace. Staff should continue to work from home if they can. Employers should keep up to date with the latest government guidelines to help plan ahead. When planning to return to the workplace, employers must: consult with staff and employee representatives, including any trade union representatives and health and safety officials check for risks of anyone being harmed in the workplace (do a 'risk assessment') – find out more about risk assessments from the Health and Safety Executive make the workplace as safe as possible for staff, customers and anyone else who visits. Employers have a 'duty of care' for staff, customers and anyone else who visits the workplace. This means they must do all they reasonably can to support their health, safety and wellbeing. Acas guidance - Working from home In this guidance, employers and employees are advised to be flexible and sensitive to each other's situation when working from home because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Advice from the HSE The HSE has issued advice within a document titled: Social distancing, keeping businesses open and in-work activities during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. It covers guidance on social distancing, essential and non-essential work, and in-work activity. Also available is guidance covering RIDDOR, first aid and chemicals: RIDDOR reporting of COVID-19 What to report?

• dangerous occurrences: if something happens at work which results in (or could result in) the release or escape of coronavirus you must report this as a dangerous occurrence

• cases of disease: exposure to a biological agent: if there is reasonable evidence that someone diagnosed with COVID-19 was likely exposed because of their work you must report this as an exposure to a biological agent using the case of disease report.


First aid cover and qualifications during coronavirus (COVID-19) If first aid cover for a business is reduced because of coronavirus or the first aid training needed is not available, this advice points out that there are some things that can be done to still comply with the law. Arrangements for regulation of chemicals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak The HSE has made some administrative changes in the provision of services for regulating chemicals during the coronavirus outbreak. These are set out for each chemical regime, with updated details on how to contact the HSE. Online isolation notes People unable to work for more than seven days because of coronavirus (COVID-19) can obtain an isolation note through the online service. Isolation notes will provide employees with evidence for their employers that they have been advised to self-isolate due to coronavirus, either because they have symptoms or they live with someone who has symptoms, and so cannot work. As isolation notes can be obtained without contacting a doctor, this will reduce the pressure on GP surgeries and prevent people needing to leave their homes. For the first seven days off work, employees can self-certify so they don’t need any evidence for their employer. After that, employers may ask for evidence of sickness absence. Where this is related to having symptoms of coronavirus or living with someone who has symptoms, the isolation note can be used to provide evidence of the advice to self-isolate. People who need to claim Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance because of coronavirus will not be required to produce a fit note or an isolation note. The notes can be accessed through the NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19 and NHS 111 online https://www.111.nhs.uk/covid-19 For more information, click here https://www.gov.uk/government/news/online-isolation-notes-launched-providing-proof-of-coronavirus-absence-from-work?utm_source=321cfce4-deee-41b4-b2b5-8cf98674b44f&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_content=immediate Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme - guidance published Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: step by step guide for employers Issued by HM Revenue and Customs, this step by step guide explains the information that employers need to provide to HMRC to make a claim through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS). It also describes the processes involved.


A revised version of the guide is now available which is clearer and includes recent additions to the process. Claim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Employers can claim for 80% of an employee’s wages plus any employer National Insurance and pension contributions, if they have been put on furlough because of coronavirus (COVID-19). Work out 80% of your employees' wages to claim through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme This guidance sets out a ‘calculator’ that can currently be used to work out what you can claim for most employees who are paid the same amount each pay period (for example, weekly or monthly). Check if you can claim for your employees' wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme This guidance sets out advice to establish if an employer is eligible and how much can be claimed to cover wages for employees on temporary leave ('furlough') due to coronavirus (COVID-19). It has been updated to direct readers to the online service that will be used to claim, which is now available: www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-for-wages-through-the-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme Coronavirus business support finder tool A ‘support finder’ tool aiming to help businesses and self-employed people across the UK to quickly and easily determine what financial support is available to them during the coronavirus pandemic has been launched. The finder tool on GOV.UK will ask business owners to fill out a simple online questionnaire, which can take minutes to complete, and they will then be directed to a list of all the financial support they may be eligible for. The business support finder tool can be found at https://www.gov.uk/business-coronavirus-support-finder Coronavirus (COVID-19): furlough guide The CIPD has issued guidance outlining key facts about furlough leave. It outlines the key facts (that have been announced so far) about designating employees as furloughed workers and gives advice on considering implementing this new type of leave. The guidance covers issues in relation to which employers/employees are eligible; how to agree which employees are furloughed; how to apply for the scheme; what happens during furlough. Government Travel Advice COVID-19 Exceptional Travel Advisory Notice


As countries respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, the FCO has advised British nationals against all but essential international travel. Any country or area may restrict travel without notice. If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, you are strongly advised to return now, where and while there are still commercial routes available. Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving. Find more information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice You can sign up for email alerts here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice Legislation Coronavirus Act 2020 The Coronavirus Bill, introduced in the House of Commons on 19 March 2020, received Royal Assent on 25 March 2020 and is now in force. The purpose of the Coronavirus Act is to enable the Government to respond to an emergency situation and manage the effects of a covid-19 pandemic. A severe pandemic could infect up to 80% of the population leading to a reduced workforce, increased pressure on health services and death management processes. The Act contains temporary measures designed to either amend existing legislative provisions or introduce new statutory powers which are designed to mitigate these impacts. The Act aims to support Government in the following:

• increasing the available health and social care workforce • easing the burden on frontline staff • containing and slowing the virus • managing the deceased with respect and dignity • supporting people.

The Act is required as part of a concerted effort across the whole of the UK to tackle the covid-19 outbreak. The intention is that it will enable the right people from public bodies across the UK to take appropriate actions at the right times to manage the effects of the outbreak. As part of its contingency planning, the Government has considered what measures would be needed during a severe covid-19 outbreak to reduce the pressure of key services and limit the spread of infection. It is stressed that these are extraordinary measures that do not apply in normal circumstances. For this reason, the legislation will be time-limited for two years and it is neither necessary nor appropriate for all of these measures come into force immediately. Instead, many of the measures in can be commenced from area to area and time to time, so as to ensure that the need to protect the public’s health can be aligned with the need to safeguard individuals’ rights. These measures can subsequently be suspended and then later reactivated, if circumstances permit, over the lifetime of the Act.


Coronavirus bill: summary of impacts The Department of Health and Social Care issued an impact assessment document. It provides a summary of impacts relating to clauses within the Coronavirus Bill 2020 (now Act) and provides an overview of the impacts considered for each clause. The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 and The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Business Closure) (England) Regulations 2020 have been revoked by the Coronavirus Act 2020. The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 [Wales] These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (“the principal Regulations”), which:

• put restrictions on the movement of individuals, setting out circumstances in which they may leave the place where they live and preventing gatherings of groups of more than two people

• require the closure of certain businesses and impose requirements on other businesses, as well as duties to close certain public footpaths and land, to protect against the risks to public health arising from coronavirus.

The amendments include:

• requiring cafés accessible by the public in hospitals, as well as canteens in schools, prisons and for use by the armed forces, to ensure all reasonable physical distancing measures are put in place

• requiring businesses that are providing facilities for “order and collect” services to take all reasonable measures to ensure a distance of 2 metres is maintained between persons on the premises where those facilities are provided (and between persons waiting to enter those premises). “Click and collect” facilities are already permitted to remain open, this amendment ensures that they are subject to the same requirements as any other establishment which is permitted to remain open under the regulations

• amending the requirement that a person must not leave the place where they live without a reasonable excuse to provide that a person must not leave nor remain away from the place where they live without such an excuse

• enabling currency exchanges, savings clubs and money transmission services to remain open so as to allow people to access money and to send money to other persons

• extending the definition of a vulnerable person to include other groups of people that could benefit from assistance and to whom providing supplies etc. would amount to a “reasonable excuse” for being away from a person’s place of residence

• extending the reasonable excuse of leaving the place where you live for the purposes of exercise to allow for exercise more than once a day when that is necessary because of a particular health condition or disability. For example, certain persons with autism may be recommended to exercise more than once a day as part of a set routine

• making it clear that visiting a cemetery or other burial ground or garden of remembrance to pay respects to a deceased person is a reasonable excuse for leaving the place where you live.


Taking all reasonable measures to maintain physical distancing in the workplace [Wales] This document sets out guidance under regulation 7A of the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (Wales) Regulations 2020. It is aimed at any person who is required by the Coronavirus Regulations to take all reasonable measures to ensure that a distance of 2 metres is maintained on particular premises. Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 The Coronavirus (Scotland) Bill received Royal Assent on 6 April 2020. The purpose of the Act is to enable the Government to respond to an emergency situation and manage the effects of a covid-19 pandemic. It contains temporary measures designed to either amend existing legislative provisions or introduce new statutory powers which are designed to mitigate these impacts. The measures set out are deemed essential to respond to this current emergency and cover a range of measures intended to ensure that:

• renters are protected while confined to their homes • the justice system is able to deliver essential services • public services, business and consumers can still operate despite new restrictions.

Statutory Sick Pay (General) (Coronavirus Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 the explanatory memorandum These Regulations came into force on 17 March 2020. These are emergency regulations in relation to the Government’s response to coronavirus. The regulations have been prepared as soon as it became clear that there was a need for the measures they contain. The measures are required as a matter of urgency as part of the Government response to a developing outbreak, in order to reduce the risk that employees will continue to work despite advice that they should self-isolate. The Statutory Sick Pay (General) (Coronavirus Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 This instrument amends the Statutory Sick Pay (General) Regulations 1982. A person classed as extremely vulnerable and at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus (COVID-19) is advised to remain at home for at least 12 weeks (known as shielding). The effect of the amendment is that Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is extended to those people who are deemed to be incapable of work because of this advice. The Regulations came into force on 16 April 2020.


The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 This instrument clarifies a number of public health measures under the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/350) (“the Restrictions Regulations”) to reduce the public health risks posed by the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in England which causes the disease Covid-19. A number of other changes are made to the Restrictions Regulations to clarify and better enable the public health measures in those Regulations to achieve the intended purpose of reducing public health risks posed by the incidence and spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Further information

• Check the Barbour Service for latest documents • Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can't do. These have been updated to bring

them in line with the latest announcements • Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel advice: coronavirus (COVID-19) • Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England: Coronavirus (COVID-19):

latest information and advice https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public#risk-level

• Support for those affected by Covid-19: document from HM Treasury detailing measures included in the Budget

• Coronavirus (COVID-19): Common questions https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/common-questions/

• Protect Home Workers – HSE homeworking advice https://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/workers/home.htm?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=coronavirus&utm_term=employers-2&utm_content=dse

• CIPD Advice https://www.cipd.co.uk/news-views/coronavirus • Updated CIPD FAQs https://www.cipd.co.uk/news-views/coronavirus/faqs • IOSH Coronavirus pages https://www.iosh.com/resources-and-research/our-

resources/communicable-diseases/coronavirus/

• WHO Situation Reports for the latest details on the outbreak https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/situation-reports/

• GOV.UK Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) guidance for health professionals https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/wuhan-novel-coronavirus

• IOSH Report Managing the safety, health and security of mobile workers https://www.iosh.com/media/1515/iosh-managing-health-and-safety-of-mobile-workers-full-report-2016.pdf

• Latest global figures: Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases by Johns Hopkins CSSE

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