Coronavirus is still with us, and the HSE are continuing their spot checks

Coronavirus is still with us. Yes, most restrictions in England were lifted on 19 July, but with case numbers beginning to creep up again at present, a gentle reminder that businesses still have to maintain a safe workplace by law.

Make sure you have an up-to-date coronavirus risk assessment, as you have a duty to ensure infections are controlled. You still have to have measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your organisation.

The Health and Safety Executive's inspectors are continuing to make spot-checks and inspections. In particular they are looking for:

• COVID-19 risk assessments
• Good practice on cleaning, hand washing and hygiene
• Good ventilation in all workplaces 

One of the most important of these is the need for good ventilation. The Regulator has a useful guide on achieving this, especially as the colder months approach. It can be found at https://www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/equipment-and-machinery/index.htm 

As individuals and as businesses, we all need to remain vigilant.

To help, we have an e-learning course aimed at managers to help them understand what is required. Visit https://www.kshsafety.com/online,  and click on Covid-19 Safe Workplaces.