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Back to work – What employers need to know

Following on from the Prime Minister’s announcement that lockdown measures have been relaxed in the UK, businesses who cannot work from home have been encouraged to return to the workplace. This has caused confusion and concern for many and clarity was sought on clearer guidance around health and safety measures.

The government have since released their COVID-19 Recovery Strategy which details this further. As a 50 page document, there is a lot to digest, so we have compiled a summary for you to read which you can access here.

 

What should Employers do first?

It’s important 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 in line with government guidance. 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

Some people might be anxious about safety and returning to the workplace. Employers and employees should talk about any concerns and try to resolve them together. It can also help to signpost staff to any health and wellbeing support that’s available, for example occupational health or mental health services.

 

Looking after health, safety and wellbeing

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.

 

It’s good practice for employers to:

  • make sure everyone is social distancing if they come into the workplace
  • be especially careful and take extra steps for vulnerable groups, including those who are pregnant, aged 70 or over, or who have a long-term health condition
  • hold meetings as remote calls and avoid travel as much as possible
  • make sure managers know how to spot symptoms of coronavirus and are clear on any relevant processes, for example sickness reporting and sick pay, and procedures in case someone in the workplace shows symptoms of the virus
  • make sure there are clean places to wash hands with hot water and soap, and encourage everyone to wash their hands regularly
  • provide hand sanitiser and tissues for staff, and encourage them to use them
  • make sure everyone’s contact numbers and emergency contact details are up to date
  • keep everyone updated on actions being taken to reduce risks of exposure in the workplace
  • keep up to date with the latest government advice

If an employee does not want to go to work

  • Some people might feel they do not want to go to work if they’re afraid of catching coronavirus. This could particularly be the case for those who are at higher risk.
  • An employer should listen to any concerns staff may have and should take steps to protect everyone.
  • For example, they could offer extra car parking where possible so that people can avoid using public transport.
  • If an employee still does not want to go in, they may be able to arrange with their employer to take the time off as holiday or unpaid leave. The employer does not have to agree to this.
  • If an employee refuses to attend work without a valid reason, it could result in disciplinary action.
  • Find out more about absence from work.

 

Avoiding discrimination

Employers must not single anyone out unfairly. For example, they must not treat an employee differently because of their race or ethnicity.
They should look out for any bullying, discrimination or harassment happening in their workplace and address it immediately.

 

We expect more advice to be released over the next few days and weeks, but in the meantime, please refer to these useful links:

Source credit: ACAS