Although most organisations continue to take their responsibilities to arrange work so that social distancing in the workplace can be maintained, there continue to be reports that in some organisations employees are being made to work in conditions that prevent social distancing.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have now published a statement that clarifies that in these difficult times, employee health and safety remains paramount. Employers must continue to provide workers with information about risks to their health and the actions their employers must take.
The HSE has confirmed that employers must enforce the public health measures announced by the government (including social distancing in the workplace, where practicable). If it comes to the HSE’s attention that employers are not complying with the relevant Public Health England guidance (including enabling social distancing where it is practical to do so), HSE will consider a range of actions ranging from providing specific advice to employers through to issuing enforcement notices, including prohibition notices.
In addition, employees can report concerns through a dedicated HSE website.
To see the HSE statement in full please visit https://press.hse.gov.uk/2020/04/03/coronavirus-a-joint-statement-between-hse-the-tuc-and-the-cbi
