Spot-checks to see if Covid rules are still being followed by local businesses

BUSINESSES in and around Ashbourne are being visited by health and safety experts who will be carrying out spot-checks as coronavirus restrictions ease.

Derbyshire Dales District Council is working with the Health and Safety Executive to call in on businesses, which were allowed to reopen fully last month, to ensure owners and managers are putting the correct safety measures in place.

The checks and inspections are carried out via calls and visits to all types of businesses to ensure customers are being adequately protected from the risk of coronavirus, and that measures in place are in line with the current guidance.

Businesses lined up for inspection will include those that have continued to operate throughout the pandemic, as well as those that have recently reopened and those due to open in the coming weeks.

Businesses will be checked for a compliant Covid-19 risk assessment, which every workplace should have in place, and it must be updated to reflect any changes in legislation or guidance.

Social distancing measures will also come under scrutiny, and shops and businesses will be inspected to ensure customers can stay at least one metre apart with mitigation, or two metres if possible.

Cleaning, hygiene and handwashing facilities will also be looked at as part of the spotchecks, including ventilation and communication with workers.

The district council’s director of regulatory services Tim

Braund said: “We will be talking to local businesses and visiting and inspecting sites across the Derbyshire Dales to understand how they are managing risks in line with their specific business activity.

“All businesses should have Covid-secure measures in place.

“It is a legal duty for businesses to protect their workers and others from harm and this includes taking reasonable steps to control the risk and protect people from coronavirus.

“This means making business adjustments to be Covid-secure.

“We advise employers to work with their employees when implementing changes, to help increase confidence with workers, customers and the local community.

“Our responsibility is to make sure that all measures continue to be taken to keep workers safe as they return to the workplace.”

To find out more about the current safety guidelines, visit www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/ businessinfo