Coronavirus - Business Information

Last updated 20 October 2021

Operating safely 

COVID has not gone away – restrictions are changing, but there are still risks from COVID. After 19 July, people and businesses will need to make informed decisions about how they manage the risk to themselves and others.

To help businesses operate safely, the Government has produced guidance on the steps organisations should take to manage risks in their workplace or setting:

  Key points for businesses to consider are:

•  Ensure a health and safety risk assessment is carried out which covers COVID-19 – remember that organisations still have a legal requirement to manage risks to those affected by their business.
• Encourage people to use the QR Test & Trace system – whilst this will no longer be a legal requirement, it will support the NHS in tracing those that have been exposed to COVID-19.
• Do not allow those who have COVID-19 symptoms or should be self-isolating to enter your premises – you should ensure staff who have symptoms or are self-isolating do not come into work.
•  Continue with good hygiene practices – provide hand sanitiser and encourage staff and customers to use it and wash their hands regularly.
• Provide adequate ventilation and, where possible, allow fresh air into premises by opening windows and doors.
•  Although face coverings will no longer be required by law, the government still expects and recommends that people wear them in crowded areas

Tourism and hospitality businesses may also want to consider the visit Britain 'We’re Good To Go' Scheme, to signal that your business is following national and industry guidelines.