COVID-19 and health and safety: joint statement issued by the HSE, TUC and CBI

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) have issued a joint statement to clarify employers’ health and safety obligations towards staff during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The statement reiterates that the health and safety of workers is paramount, even during these unusual times when many are working from home or are facing increased pressures in the workplace.  

For those that are not working from home, the guidance emphasises the importance of practising social distancing within the workplace where practical to do so. It warns that if it comes to the HSE’s attention that employers are not complying with relevant Public Health England guidance, the HSE will take action, ranging from providing specific advice to employers through to issuing enforcement notices, including prohibition notices.

Further HSE guidance on social distancing for employers can be found on the HSE website