Are we in a ‘Pingdemic’ as self-isolation rules continue

Are we in a ‘Pingdemic’ as self-isolation rules continue

 

As we now see the restrictions lift across England there is a growing fear from many Employers and unions that businesses will be forced to close (if not done so already) because of staff shortages, due to the wave of people being informed they have to isolate by the NHS Covid-19 app.

We have found this increasingly alarming as calls from many Employers are asking for advice and guidance, it has been noted by M&S, Greene King, and Morrisons along with unions too, these are all reporting we face a “pingdemic” if the Government does not relax the rules for people who have been vaccinated.

Whilst the Government may have said the rules are due to relaxing on self-isolation on 16 August the issues facing Employers right now is increasing, this is causing real problems that need addressing now and are across every industry.

 

How can you ease the burden right now?

As an Employer you can implement and or maintain a Covid-secure workplace, it may be that your team may now be returning (or more of them) you may want to introduce barriers or screens, the continued wearing of masks could be added protection and of course not to forget rigorous hygiene.

We would encourage a flexible approach to working, this may mean maintaining your homeworking where possible, staggering work patterns, and especially rest periods.

 

Should you review your Covid-19 Risk Assessment?

We would advise you do this as soon as possible, as with any lifting or imposing of the restrictions we advise this. It need not take a long time to review in your workplace (depending on the size of your business), this will ensure you remain covid secure.

 

How should you communicate with your teams?

As Employers you should communicate how you intend to deal with the easing of restrictions, we suggest that once you have updated your Covid-19 Risk Assessment you distribute this again and make it accessible to your teams.

 

What should you do if your staff are told to self-isolate?

You should inform your team how you intend to deal with self-isolation, you can find out about this on the NHS Website, NHS When to self-isolate and what to do, if your HR provider refuses to help you please do contact us as we will provide you with assistance.

 

If you need help with payment you can view the rules on the ACAS website, ACAS Who is entitled to payment for self-isolation if your HR provider refuses to help you please do contact us as we will provide you with assistance.

 

How else can we assist you?

We are here to help and support you through Coronavirus and beyond, we understand that this is an extremely difficult time, we are open 365/24 hours, feel free to contact us at any time, we offer free initial advice, and guidance.

0333 006 9489 [email protected]