Safety watchdog's virus workplace warning
Safety watchdogs are gearing up for spot checks on offices, factories and work sites as Covid-19 restrictions lift.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says it is working with local authorities and will be carrying out spot checks and inspections on local businesses.
The HSE say the reopening of the economy also means that the opportunity for Covid to spread is increased substantially and it is critical that businesses are not complacent and still need to have Covid-secure measures in place.
It says it is visiting all types of businesses, in all areas, to check the measures they've put in place to manage the risk from coronavirus, are in line with the current guidance – includes those which have continued to operate throughout the pandemic.
Angela Storey, director of transformation and operational services at HSE, said: “As we come out of lockdown, we are continuing to work with local authorities to check businesses are Covid-secure and providing guidance and advice where needed.
“All workplaces are in scope for unannounced spot checks which means businesses of any size, in any sector can receive a visit from HSE or an inspection from the local authority, to check they are Covid-secure.”
The HSE say that during spot checks and inspections, inspectors will provide guidance and advice where required, but where businesses aren’t managing the risk, action will be taken.
This can range from the provision of advice to stopping certain work practices until they are made safe. Where businesses fail to comply, this could lead to prosecution.