The below has been provided to us by the Health & Safety Executive
An update on the latest information for employers and employees in the construction industry, including details of advice and guidance around the coronavirus outbreak.
Check the HSE website daily for the latest updates.
Joint statements from the HSE
HSE has issued two joint statements with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI); and with the Partnership on Health and Safety in Scotland (PHASS).
Many workers, union reps and employers have questions and concerns about safe working – especially for those continuing to work away from home. These joint statements are intended to clarify the position, as the health and safety of workers remains paramount.
Social distancing guidelines
HSE has produced guidelines on how businesses must maintain social distancing and protect workers during the coronavirus outbreak.
The guidance explains what employers must do in order to protect their workers and keep their businesses open. It covers:
- social distancing (employers who have people in their offices or onsite should ensure that employees are able, where possible, to follow the appropriate regulations and/or guidance for England, Scotland and Wales on social distancing)
- essential and non-essential work
- safe in-work activity
Construction specific advice has also been provided to the industry through the Construction Leadership Council (CLC).
The latest version (V3) of CLC's 'Site Operating Procedures - Protecting Your Workforce During Coronavirus (Covid-19)' can be downloaded at this link.
RIDDOR – reporting coronavirus
HSE has issued details of when and how you should report coronavirus incidents under RIDDOR (the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013).
You must only make a report under RIDDOR, relating to coronavirus, when:
- an unintended incident at work has led to someone’s possible or actual exposure to coronavirus. This must be reported as a dangerous occurrence
- a worker has been diagnosed as having COVID-19 and there is reasonable evidence that it was caused by exposure at work. This must be reported as a case of disease.
- a worker dies as a result of occupational exposure to coronavirus.
Visit our website for further details on the above, along with examples.
Examination and testing of lifting and pressure equipment during the coronavirus outbreak
HSE has published advice to help dutyholders ensure their work plant and equipment remain safe to use during the coronavirus outbreak.
HSE recognises the potential challenges when carrying out legal requirements for thorough examination and testing (TE&T) of plant and equipment as a result of the additional precautions people need to take to help reduce risk of transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).
View our guidance to help industry during this period.
Coronavirus guidance
We have published the following guidance, which you may find useful:
- face mask fit-testing
- working from home
- driver welfare facilities
- first aid cover and qualifications
- the manufacture and supply of hand sanitisers
Stay up to date with the latest advice
To support the UK response to coronavirus, HSE is working closely with the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and Public Health England (PHE) who are leading the UK government response to the coronavirus outbreak.
The HSE website has the latest guidance and information for employers and employees.
PHE has developed guidance specifically for employers and businesses regarding coronavirus.
Please keep up-to-date with and follow the coronavirus guidance on Gov.uk.
In Scotland you will find up to date information and advice about COVID-19 from the Scottish Government.
In Wales, up-to-date information is provided by the Welsh Government.
Published on Friday 17th April 2020