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As lockdown eases, HSE is continuing to carry out spot checks and inspections on businesses in all areas to check they have COVID-secure measures in place.
Being COVID-secure means being adaptable to the current guidance and putting measures in place to manage the risk of coronavirus and making sure workers are following them.
During the spot checks and inspections, HSE will provide guidance where required but, where businesses are not managing the risk, immediate action will be taken.
Making your workplace COVID-secure
Every workplace should have a COVID risk assessment, and it should be updated regularly. Using the risk assessment you should put workplace control measures in place which include:
- Working from home
- Social distancing
- Adequate ventilation
- Frequent cleaning and handwashing
- Vulnerable workers
You should also talk to your workers and involve them in the measures you’re putting in place when making your workplace COVID-secure.
If you have been away from your workplace for some time, there are other health and safety measures you may need to think about as you return:
Coming back to work may be difficult for some workers
Employers have a legal duty to protect employees from stress at work by doing a risk assessment and acting on it. The earlier a problem is identified and tackled the less impact it will have.
HSE has a range of practical support and guidance available to support mental health and wellbeing at work including risk assessment templates for stress, talking toolkits to help start conversations with your colleagues, workbooks, posters, a mobile app and an automated stress indicator tool.
For more information visit the stress section of HSE's website.
If employees have been away from the business for prolonged periods they may have experienced a decline in ability or proficiency. They may need additional time and support to get back to pre-pandemic performance.
Examining and testing equipment
If equipment has been stored or unused for long periods of time, check it for damage or deterioration.
We have updated advice on thorough examination and testing of equipment as restrictions are eased.
Legionella
If your building has been closed or had reduced occupancy during the coronavirus restrictions, water system stagnation can occur due to lack of use, increasing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease.
See our guidance on legionella risks during the coronavirus pandemic.
More information
Get further details on keeping your workplace safe as coronavirus restrictions are eased is available on our website and further government guidance is available for England, Scotland and Wales.
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