Months on from ‘Freedom Day’ in July and we are already seeing the effects of restrictions being eased. Workplaces are busier, facemasks have become less prevalent and the self-isolation rules have changed for the fully vaccinated. For employers, there remains a lot to consider in the wake of ‘Freedom Day’.
“The relaxation in covid restrictions means that responsibility for keeping people safe has passed very much back to individuals and businesses.” This naturally comes with its own problems as employers must balance the need to protect staff and clients/customers with employee’s other rights.
Employers should still give serious consideration to maintaining a certain level of covid-security in the workplace. This is likely to mean reminding staff of the need to observe a degree of social distancing and, in some situations, mask-wearing. At the time of writing, the position on vaccinations remains unchanged and until such time as a case has been decided on actual policies, our advice remains that vaccines should be actively encouraged in most businesses rather than mandated.
“Employers will still be at risk of claims relating to insecure workplaces. With that in mind, we would continue to advise routine and ongoing risk assessment in the workplace. At a minimum, this will help mitigate the outcome of any claim.”
A reduction in the number of people in the workplace will help to ensure that businesses remain covid-secure, but flexible and hybrid working both require their own consideration.
Contact Information: Phone: 01202 499255
Email: pburton@frettens.co.uk
This article is featured in the September edition of the Dorset Business Focus magazine. Read on the online version here.