The HSE has announced it is to carry out spot checks and inspections on businesses to ensure they are COVID-secure. It will be calling and visiting premises to speak to duty holders to check that measures that have been put in place are in line with current guidance.
The inspections will apply to all types of businesses, in all areas. During the checks the HSE will provide advice and guidance to manage risk and protect workers, customers and visitors.
Where businesses are not managing this, it will take “immediate action” in one of the following ways:
- providing specific advice
- issuing enforcement notices
- stopping certain work practices until they are made safe
- prosecution where a business fails to comply
The HSE says being COVID-secure means being adaptable to the current guidelines, and its inspection approach will adapt as workplaces in different sectors manage the coronavirus risks that apply to them. “Most employers want to do the right thing, and HSE is here to help and provide advice,” it says.
It will also be working closely with local authorities to assist them in their targeting of premises in the sectors they regulate, such as hospitality and retail.
The organisation reminds companies that if they receive a call from the HSE, they have a duty under health and safety law to engage and participate in the spot check.
See more HSE advice on making your workplace COVID-secure.