Last week saw the British Government announce further restrictions following the increasing numbers of Coronavirus cases across the country and in particular the greater spread of the Omicron variant, which health officials have deemed a “very severe setback” to hopes of bringing the pandemic under control.

While our business operations can continue broadly unchanged, this is an opportunity for everyone to check that the way they are working and the actions they are taking are compliant with our COVID Protocols and tighten up any areas where they have inadvertently relaxed.

In particular:

• It is vital that all requirements for face-to-face meetings / training are followed, such as proper ventilation of rooms, with a CO2 monitor in place and maintaining cleaning and sanitising procedures.
  • We understand that face to face meetings are sometimes needed but assess first whether they can be done virtually.
  • Carry out a Lateral Flow Test before attending any meetings / training and do not attend if you are unwell.
• Site visits can continue if the reason for them is justified – however be sure to check with the site management in advance and complete a lateral flow test before you travel, and stay outside as far as possible.
• The Mask and Move policy at all of our sites must be followed.
• If you are a close contact of someone who has tested positive, but you yourself have received a negative PCR result, you can only return to work if you are double vaccinated and complete a daily lateral flow test for 10 days. Government guidance is that you should test daily for seven days, however for some time we have been going over and above this to ensure the safety of other employees and contractors.
  • Note: this guidance for close contacts is, as of Friday 10^th December, different for those in Scotland. For those who live there, any household contact of a positive case should self-isolate for 10 days regardless of vaccination status and even if they receive a negative PCR test, while non-household contacts can leave isolation once they receive a negative PCR result if they are double vaccinated.

It is also important that we look out for our colleagues who may be more vulnerable due to health conditions – the HR and Health and Safety Teams are working with Managers to reassess the needs of all those identified in this category. Please take care and be considerate of those who are vulnerable or live with people who are; do not come into work if you are ill or suspect you may have Coronavirus and be sure to follow the Behaviours that Save Lives at all times.

Regular lateral flow tests are key to identifying cases of Coronavirus, particularly amongst those who have no symptoms, and as the Christmas period sees increased socialising with others. It is very quick and easy to order free tests online, and in most cases they arrive the next day. Order lateral flow tests here.

People may not be aware but a newer version of the test is now being issued, which only requires nasal swabs and is therefore much less uncomfortable to do. If you are unsure, the Government has created a series of helpful step by step videos for both types of test. Watch them here.