HSE To Take Action Against Employers Who Don’t Enforce Social Distancing

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09 April 2020

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed that it will “consider a range of actions” against firms who don’t observe Public Health England’s advice around COVID-19.

In a joint press release with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), HSE called the current situation “an extremely worrying time for firms and workers”. 

They stated that the health and safety of workers remains paramount, and that employers must continue to provide workers with information about risks to their health and the actions they must take.

HSE also says that, although most employers are complying with Public Health England guidance (including enabling social distancing where it is practical to do so), some continue to not observe the measures.

"This is an extremely worrying time for firms and workers. We know many workers, union reps and employers have questions and concerns about safe working – especially for those continuing to work away from home."

–Official statement from the HSE, TUC, and CBI

Potential enforcement and prohibition notices

In terms of the consequences of flouting the government guidance, the HSE states that they will ”consider a range of actions ranging from providing specific advice to employers through to issuing enforcement notices, including prohibition notices.”

The statement urges worried employees to contact the relevant enforcement authorities:

“Where a worker has a genuine concern about health and safety which cannot be resolved through speaking with their employer or trade union, they should contact the relevant enforcement agency – either their local authority, or the HSE through https://www.hse.gov.uk/contact/concerns.htm”

Picture: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed that it will “consider a range of actions”  against firms who don’t observe Public Health England’s advice around COVID-19.

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 09 April 2020

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