Police respond to fears over factory safety

ONE DETAINED DURING ‘ROUTINE VISITS’ IN CITY

POLICE have been visiting factories across the city, amid concerns about the way some businesses have been operating during lockdown.

The “routine visits”, along with police partner agencies, were in response to allegations of factories working through lockdown.

Officers visited nine workplaces on Friday.

While no enforcement action was taken, police said one person was detained in relation to immigration matters. No closure orders were issued.

During the visits, officers spoke with business owners and workers to discuss concerns and give advice on Covid-era health and safety in the workplace.

The force has said more visits will be made over the coming weeks.

Detective Inspector Jenni Heggs said: “We are aware of recent reports in the media of factories in Leicester continuing their operational work despite being in a period of lockdown.

“We have been working with partners sharing information to carry out these visits which we will continue to do going forward.

“We have been engaging with business owners and workers, discussing health and safety matters and giving advice. This is to ensure the health and safety of people who are working in the city. ‘ENGAGING WITH BUSINESS OWNERS AND WORKERS’: Police and partners made nine routine visits to workplaces

“We want to remind all businesses to ensure they are following employment law and ensuring the health and safety of their employees.”

The police were assisted by representatives of Leicester City Council, the National Crime Agency, the Health and Safety Executive, Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, immigration enforcement and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. Employers can access support via the Health and Safety Executive website at the website below, or by calling 0300 790 6787. Lines are are open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.

While no enforcement action was taken, police said one person was detained in relation to immigration matters