www.covid19.ergonomics.org.

uk

Creating a
safe workplace
during COVID-19

3rd June, 2020. Version 1

Contents

Introduction 3
Ergonomics and Human Factors 4

The seven key steps

1. Establish a COVID-19 response team 5
2. Understand how the virus is transmitted 6
3. Carry out a risk assessment 7
4. Engage staff 8
5. Encourage behavioural change 9
6. Implement risk control measures 10
7. Monitor, review and learn 18

Additional areas to consider

8. Mental health and psychological wellbeing 19
9. Working from home 20
10. Video etiquette 21

Appendices
1. Staff survey - return to work 23
2. Advice to first aiders 25
3. Frequently asked questions by employees 27
4. Advice to employees with a positive COVID-19 test 28
5. Risk assessment framework 29

Acknowledgements 32

2 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Introduction

The purpose of this guide is to help leaders and

managers in businesses and organisations make We recommend seven key steps:
their office workspaces safe for staff returning to
work and reduce the transmission of the COVID-19
virus. This process begins with putting together a
competent team and undertaking a risk assessment
and staff survey to inform decision-making.
1. Establish a COVID-19
response team

2. Understand how
Businesses are encouraged to consider the
workplace as a whole system so that in mitigating the virus is transmitted
a risk in one part of the work system, unintended
consequences are not created in another. For
example, new ways of work lead to increased
workload/stress and reduced collaborative working.

The guide outlines important steps to identify

3. Carry out a risk
assessment

and reduce risks whilst maintaining performance

and productivity. The Chartered Institute of
Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) has
worked with an expert panel of Human Factors
4. Engage
staff
consultants, scientists and clinicians to prepare

5. Encourage
this guide with contributions from The British
Occupational Hygiene Society, Society of
Occupational Medicine, Institute of Occupational
behavioural change
Medicine, International Institute of Risk and
Safety Management, Chartered Society of
Designers, Chartered Institute of Personnel
and Development and the Royal Academy
of Engineering.
6. Implement risk
control measures

Dr Noorzaman Rashid
Chief Executive
The Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors
7. Monitor,
and learn
review

For advice and guidance on other types of workspaces or public areas, businesses can make a request for
help by visiting: www.covid19.ergonomics.org.uk or emailing: [email protected]
Our human factors and ergonomics experts work across all industries and, along with the
BOHS, can provide seamless bespoke advice.

Caveat: The guidance in this document should be read alongside advice from the Health and Safety Executive and the UK Government. As the
pandemic evolves, so will the guidance and actions necessary to stay safe. Go to: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/
media/5eb97e7686650c278d4496ea/working-safely-during-covid-19-offices-contact-centres-110520.pdf

3 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Ergonomics and Human Factors

Ergonomics and Human Factors has been a Benefits to industry and business include:
scientific discipline since the late 1940s and has
evolved to become an activity embedded in  Working with a Chartered Ergonomist and
many organisations throughout the UK. It has Human Factors Specialist early in the design
impacted changes in, and improvements to, process will lead to higher quality outputs,
workplaces, technologies and systems. improved brand reputation and cost savings.
 Ergonomists and human factors specialists
At the CIEHF, we understand the need to identify
partner with colleagues from different
clear messages to influence industry, policy
specialisms and together they create better
makers, research funders and educators, on why
solutions.
ergonomics and human factors is important, how
it adds value, and what the priorities should be  Ergonomics and human factors methods
when considering how ergonomics and human help design more effective workplaces,
factors should be implemented. enable more efficient work, and create a safer
and healthier working environments for all.
Applying ergonomics and human factors ensures  Applying ergonomics and human factors can
that systems, products and services are be very cost-effective and can deliver a good
designed to make them easier, safer and more return on investment.’
effective for people to use.

We focus on integrated human-centred design

to improve life, wellbeing, performance and safety. To read more than 20 case studies on how
This involves the disciplines of physiology, ergonomics and human factors have made
engineering, psychology and technology. E&HF a positive difference to business, visit:
experts are formally trained to design and https://bit.ly/HumanConnectionII
improve work systems to maximise individual
and team performance.

For advice and guidance on other types of workspaces or public areas, businesses can make a
request for help by emailing: [email protected]

4 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 1. Establish a COVID-19
response team

A collective mind set and effective, open Where this expertise is not available ‘in-house’,
communication with the workforce will be organisations should consider whether they
essential to facilitate a return to full productivity need to seek external assistance.
over time.
Where customer groups exist, it is important to
A senior leader within a business or organisation involve them, where appropriate. For example,
should head the COVID-19 return to work team. where contractors or customers either work on,
They must have authority to make changes. or use, a site, or are likely to be affected by any
They must understand what the risks are and actions that are taken, then representatives
how to reduce and mitigate them. Where should be contacted.
possible, they should be supported and work
with staff from the following areas of expertise:

 Human Resources
 Occupational Health
 Facilities / buildings design
 Health and Safety
 Communications
 Staff representative groups.

5 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 2. Understand how
the virus is transmitted

There are two main ways the COVID-19 virus Key considerations:
can be transmitted:
 The risk of infection is minimised by
Contaminated surfaces protecting the eyes, mouth and nose, and
When someone touches the surface with through social distancing, good personal
their hands and then touches their eyes, hygiene practices and cleaning regimes.
nose or mouth.
 The 2m rule means that people avoid
Contaminated respiratory droplets physical contact with each other and
These are released by individuals who are therefore cannot spread infection by direct
infectious. This mainly happens when someone touching. It also allows space for exhaled
coughs, sneezes or blows their nose but can droplets to dissipate, reducing the likelihood
also occur during normal speech and respiration. of an uninfected person inhaling them.
Respiratory droplets are not airborne for long but
do travel. This is the key reason for emphasising
social distancing.

6 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 3. Carry out a
risk assessment

3.1 Risk assessment should address how to 3.4 The results of the risk assessment should be
restrict the transmission of the COVID-19 virus in shared with the workforce. Consider publishing it
the workplace by planning how to conduct work on the company or organisation’s website.
whilst following Government guidance. Like most Businesses with over 50 employees are
health risks, reducing the risk from COVID-19 expected to do so.
involves the use of a hierarchy of controls.
3.5 The Government guidance also encourages
3.2 Elimination or avoidance of hazards should employers to display the following sign:
come first where possible. This step is outside https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/
control at present as wherever there are people, media/5eb97d30d3bf7f5d364bfbb6/staying-
the potential exists for the virus to be present. covid-19-secure.pdf
However, there is a range of possible control
measures that should be integrated to be most Staying COVID-19 Secure in 2020

effective. These are outlined in this document.

We confirm we have complied with the government’s
guidance on managing the risk of COVID-19

FIVE STEPS TO SAFER

WORKING TOGETHER

3.3 The risk assessment does not need to follow We have carried out a COVID-19 risk assessment and

a set format. However, it is essential to identify

shared the results with the people who work here

We have cleaning, handwashing and hygiene procedures

in line with guidance

and record the following:

We have taken all reasonable steps to help people work
from home

We have taken all reasonable steps to maintain a 2m

distance in the workplace

Where people cannot be 2m apart, we have done everything

practical to manage transmission risk

 Those at risk, including any individuals who Employer Date

are particularly vulnerable.

Who to contact: Your Health and Safety Representative
(or the Health and Safety Executive at www.hse.gov.uk or 0300 003 1647)

 Hazard/hazardous situations, e.g. close

contact situations or contact with frequently
shared/highly used surfaces.
 How virus transmission could occur amongst
staff in the workplace/activities.
 What is being done to manage the risks of
transmission (control measures).
 What more needs to be done to manage
the risks.
 Who is responsible for implementing any
actions or changes and by when.

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS), works closely with Human Factors experts.
Appendix 5 provides a copy of their detailed risk assessment framework. If in doubt about how
to complete this, seek external help.

7 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 4. Engage staff

4.1 Involving staff will help employers It should be noted that:

understand the issues that need to be addressed
from an employee perspective. This may include  Staff who are able to work effectively and
anxiety, possible exclusion, childcare and travel safely at home will reduce the risk of the virus
to work issues. A survey should help management spreading amongst the workforce. They
make informed decisions on how, when and who should continue to work from home until the
to safely return. Demonstrating effective planning Government guidance changes.
should also help employees feel safe and
 Expert occupational health assistance should
confident to return to the workplace.
be used where employees intending to return
to the workplace may be suffering from
4.2 A sample pre-return to work survey is
underlying health issues, may be pregnant, or
included in Appendix 1. This includes a short set
living in a household where people are
of questions aimed at helping organisations and
shielding or who have already contracted the
managers decide who is best placed to return to
COVID-19 virus. This should inform decision
the workplace, who needs additional shielding,
making on any appropriate additional steps
and who needs further support for comfortable
that need to be taken to keep these
working at home.
individuals safe.
 A staff induction/briefing pack should be
compiled as early as possible and updated
with information employees need before they
return to work.

8 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 5. Encourage
behavioural change

5.1 It is essential to help staff adapt to new ways  Lack of physical infrastructure or material to
of working. Minimising the spread of COVID-19 actually support or allow correct behaviours.
in the workplace is strongly dependent on the  Absence of any supervisory elements; feeling
behaviour of all employees. When planning that even if rules are not followed, no
return to the office it is useful to think of correct repercussions are likely.
behaviours as barriers to transmission. Incorrect
or failure to follow correct behaviours should be  Group norms; these push-back effects
thought of as vehicles for transmission. become even greater if there is a group
tendency to agree to ignore any new rules.
5.2 The key examples of behaviours to be
encouraged are hand washing, cleaning any 5.4 Organisations should take the following
shared equipment before and/or after use and steps in anticipation of these issues:
maintaining social distancing. Some of these are
behaviours that people have started to become  Communicate clear behavioural rules or
used to. However, there is a risk that returning to protocols. Support them with visual aids, e.g.
the workplace could trigger a return to habitual floor markings and pictoral signs, avoiding
behaviours that do not follow these safe rules. text where possible.
 Factor in/allow people any extra time needed
5.3 Behaviours are driven by underlying to comply with expected rules.
motivators or drivers. In human factors, these
 Ensure that work expectations/work
are known as performance influencing factors
practices do not conflict with any expected
(PIFs). These may lead to COVID-19 hygiene or
risk control behaviours.
social distancing rules being ignored or broken
and include:  Monitor behaviours and challenge rule
breaking early on. Have a clear and
 Uncertainty over how to do things correctly;
transparent policy and process for doing this.
lack of rules or guidance.
 Repeat messages and keep them live to
 Experience to date leading to an
avoid a slide back to old routines.
underestimation of risk (if someone has not
contracted the virus, does not know anyone  Establish rapid response teams or request
who has, or has had a mild case of it). HR to check and discuss suitable protocols
for new situations that may not have been
 Pressures that counteract safe behaviours,
anticipated.
e.g. time pressures and feeling there is no
time to do things ‘the right way’.

Behavioural rules and instructions should be reviewed regularly to make sure they are effective and
realistically reflect the work environment and the work that staff are doing.

9 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

As a business, consider both proactive and  Use technology to allow meetings from a
reactive measures when bringing people back to distance, even in the same building, not just
the workplace. This guidance also includes a from home.
range of control measures that work best in
 Identify individuals who may need more
combination with each other. Some may be more
stringent exposure control measures; who is
appropriate or achievable depending on features
most at risk? Involve OH or HR to carry out
of individual workplaces and work practices.
individual risk assessments.
6.1 Eliminate  The British Occupational Hygiene Society
There is at present no vaccine to prevent (BOHS), provides expert advice on a range of
COVID-19. The best way to avoid transmission is risk management measures, which includes a
to maintain social distancing, observe meticulous range of exposure control measures using
hand hygiene, and avoid all unnecessary isolation and reduction techniques,
interpersonal contact. Keeping people away from procedural options, deep cleaning offices,
the workplace effectively eliminates the risk of the maintenance and cleaning of equipment
transmission directly between staff/visitors, etc. to prepare for restart, PPE options for all
workplaces and the occupational hygiene
Organisations should: issues, risks and mitigations.
(See Appendix 5)
 Encourage staff to cooperate with
Government guidance and plans for testing,
contact tracing, and what to do if they
develop symptoms.
 Where possible ask employees to continue
working from home to reduce numbers in the
workplace and manage the risk of exposure
to the virus. Staff should be provided with
guidance on working from home safely and
comfortably to maintain their physical and
mental wellbeing. For more advice, see:
https://bit.ly/HFHomeWorking

10 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

Clinically vulnerable staff: Individuals in this Occupational health guidance for pregnant
group should be advised to stay at home as women who work in a public-facing role can be
much as possible and are likely to need found at: https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/guidelines-
additional safeguarding if their return to the research-services/guidelines/coronavirus-
workplace cannot be avoided. At present, those pregnancy/COVID-19-virus-infection-and-
at increased risk include: pregnancy/#occupational
 Aged 70 or older (regardless of medical
The NHS website has information on
conditions).
vulnerability to COVID-19 at:
 Under 70 with any underlying health https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-
condition listed below; that is, anyone COVID-19/people-at-higher-risk-from-
instructed to get a flu jab as an adult each coronavirus/
year on medical grounds:
- Chronic (long-term) or mild to moderate
respiratory diseases, such as asthma.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), emphysema or bronchitis.
- Chronic heart disease, such as heart
failure, kidney or liver diseases.
- Chronic neurological conditions, such as
Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone
disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), or
cerebral palsy.
- Diabetes.
- A weakened immune system as the result
of certain conditions, treatments like
chemotherapy, or medicines such as
steroid tablets.
- Being seriously overweight; a body mass
index (BMI) of 40 or above.
- Pregnant women.

11 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

6.2 Reduce exposure 6.3 Hygiene

Staff should only come into the office when Workplace hygiene: It may be appropriate to
it is unavoidable or until such time as the conduct a deep clean before any employees or
Government guidance on this changes. visitors access the building or workspace. If an
office space has been unoccupied for a prolonged
It is essential to take action to avoid creating period, a deep clean may not be necessary. This
unnecessary risks, for example musculoskeletal decision should be taken as early as possible.
or mental health issues, consequently through
reducing the potential for virus transmission. As Organisations should:
noted under 6.1 it is essential that staff working
at home are given advice, support and  Introduce regular cleaning regimes for
equipment to allow them to work comfortably. common touch points, e.g. doors, buttons
handles and equipment like photocopiers.
Where employees need to return to the workplace, Methods and cleaning materials should be
implement measures to reduce risk of viral exposure clearly set out. Anyone with cleaning
and transmission. In broad terms these are: responsibilities should have it made
absolutely clear what is expected of them
 Following social distancing guidelines. once they return to the workplace.
 Modifying office design and layouts to  Ensure cleaning products used are effective
improve circulation space and distance against COVID-19 and instructions are
between staff when working (see section correctly followed.
6.5 for more details and advice)  Where possible, ensure toilets and
 Staggering arrival, break and lunch times. bathrooms are cleaned regularly throughout
 Encouraging outdoor and web meetings. the day.
 Provide dispensers of hand sanitisers as
widely as possible throughout the site,
More details on these and other key
particularly in entrance and exit locations and
COVID-19 risk reduction strategies are
near doors or lifts that are frequently used.
covered in the remainder of this guidance.
 Consider how hand drying facilities could act
as virus transmission surfaces, and take
An important general risk control will be to steps to reduce the risks, e.g. by using
ensure that staff understand and follow the non-contact towel dispensers and/or air-
Government’s COVID-19 Track and Trace dryers.
process. We recommend that the details of
this process are included in return to work
briefings.

12 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

Individual desk hygiene: Provide staff with (how to put it on and take it off) and how to
information and instructions about virus dispose of used PPE.
transmission, hand hygiene and cleaning of  Gloves may be a preferred solution to hand
equipment and furniture. Desk hygiene should washing or sanitising for staff that have to
include: regularly handle items that have been
touched by others.
 Time being allowed for staff to undertake
cleaning around their workspaces throughout  If you are providing gloves or any other PPE,
the day. avoid products containing latex as these may
 Staff being asked to clean their own cause an allergic reaction in some
equipment at the start and end of the day, and individuals.
before use, should anyone else have used it.  PPE should be made available for first aiders
 As far as possible computer equipment (see Appendix 2)
should not be shared and hot-desking should
be avoided. 6.5 Adapt workplace layout design
 Where use of hot desks is unavoidable, For those who cannot avoid being in the
provide each member of staff with their own workplace, most organisations need to take
keyboard and mouse. steps to keep people further apart than was
 Work surfaces, chair armrests, adjustment previously the case. This will present challenges
levers and backs should be wiped down as for most organisations as fewer people will be
part of the workplace cleaning regime. able to be in one space. Initial surveys and
 Clear desk policies should be adopted at the digital analytics show that beyond 40 percent
end of each working day to allow effective occupancy rate, revisions to desk layout design
cleaning of surfaces. and footfalls will need to be designed. (https://
www.burohappold.com/articles/social-
 Changing facilities, where possible, being distancing-in-the-workplace/#)
made available. Consider the following actions:

6.4 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)  Repurpose communal spaces into

PPE should not be used as an alternative to workspaces to help separate staff and
social distancing, except where there is no other maintain social distancing. These areas may
practical solution. The evidence of the benefit of include: rest areas, foyers, waiting rooms,
using a face covering to protect others or canteens, meeting and conference rooms.
yourself is still limited, therefore, face coverings
by themselves are not a replacement for the  Where possible move desks so they are not
other ways of managing risk. Government in lines facing each other.
guidance should be followed. This includes:  Consider the use of screens around open plan
 If risk assessment shows that PPE is desk space to create a barrier in front of and
required, equipment should be provided free around the sides of the desk. Screen heights
of charge to staff that need it. Any PPE should be above the face; when seated
provided must fit properly. Instructions around 54cms above the desk surface, and
should be provided for donning and doffing when standing around 66cms.

13 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

 Screen fabric: Preferably porous rather than  Avoid use of lifts if possible or limit use of lifts
plastic to absorb the virus rather than letting and the numbers using them.
it stay on top of the surface.
 ‘One in/one out’ for use of toilets and washrooms.
 Where people need to see each other,
 For washrooms with multiple urinals and
transparent acrylic or equivalent can be used
sinks, block off alternate sinks and urinals.
with a cleaning regime.
Mark clearly as blocked off if this control
 Where items have to be passed across the measure is applied.
screen, an appropriate sized aperture can be
 Removal of toilet doors (main doors not
included.
cubicles!), as long as privacy can be
 Preferably, there will be a slight top to maintained, to eliminate door handle
prevent transmission upwards. touching when entering and leaving the toilet.
 Avoiding banks of desks that cause people
to pass close to each other; consider the 6.7 Fire evacuation
paths people will need to take off any main Fire risk assessments and evacuation
thoroughfares through the workplace. procedures must be reviewed and staff informed
as part of their return to work induction. There
 Avoiding sign-in procedures where anyone
has been no relaxation of the Fire Safety
has to interact with communal documents or a
Regulations (The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety)
digital device. Arrangements can be made for
Order 2005) due to COVID-19. It is
reception staff or hosts to sign people in and
recommended that all organisations review and
out whilst maintaining social distancing.
act on the guidance provided by the Government
 The use of temperature checks at the work and the National Fire Chiefs Council. The links
entrance. Ensure anyone carrying out this below provides detailed advice on this essential
type of close contact task is issued with aspect of returning to the workplace.
suitable PPE. Consent must be received from This will include the following:
staff for their temperature to be taken.
 N
 ormal evacuation procedures taking priority over
 Removal of turnstiles at entrances/exits. COVID-19 restrictions and ensuring COVID-19
control measures do not hinder evacuations.
6.6 Flow of people  How to ensure any additional shielding for
Consider the routes people will walk when moving higher vulnerability staff can be maintained
around the workspace and where high traffic during an evacuation.
movement needs control. Consider the following:
 How to roll-call staff while minimising close
 Create one-way flows of people including on contact between people at assembly points.
stairs where possible.
 Once the situation has been investigated,
 Widen the movement areas by rearranging staff should be informed by text to return if
furniture where possible. they have dispersed safely to avoid close
 Provide clear signs and directions for contact. For this reason, staff contact details,
movement. including mobile phones, should be kept up
to date. When evacuating, staff should take
 Lay temporary floor markings. their mobiles with them as long as this does
not delay their exit.

14 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

 Inform staff of any changes to evacuation  Staff using their own mobile phones as
plans. opposed to desk phones or communal
phones. Staff should also be advised on
cleaning their mobile devices if they have
https://www.nationalfirechiefs.org.uk/write/
been using them on public transport, etc.
MediaUploads/COVID-19/Protection%20
documents/NFCC_Protection_-_COVID-19_  Sourcing temporary covers for existing chairs
Protection_Advice_to_Businesses_-_9_April_-_ if there are concerns about the fabric not
FINAL.pdf withstanding effective cleaning.
 Providing staff with anti-viral and anti-
https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-
bacterial products and instructions to follow
responsibilities
hygiene rules to clean all their equipment
frequently.
6.8 Equipment solutions  Reviewing and maintaining air conditioning
There are many equipment solutions to reduce and ventilation systems. Consider changing
risks. These are prioritised on those that pertain the ventilation rates where air conditioners
to (probably) existing equipment and so should are in operation. Artificial ventilation rates
be relatively straightforward and low-cost. There should drop to reduce air velocity. Where
are also imaginative and higher tech solutions fresh air intake is possible this should be
that may be more appropriate as long-term increased to reduce the recirculation of any
measures. For instance, hands free non-contact virus particles. In the longer term, look to
or proximity sensing technology, which include whether HEPA or ULPA air filters could be
proximity sensing taps, kick style door openers, fitted either in current A/C systems or in
exit and entrance controls, proximity beacons replacement systems (desk fans should
with RFID or NFC tags, foot pedals instead of ideally taken out of use).
doorbells and Smart RFID cards instead of  Checking water systems as water may have
fingerprint readers for security. This technology remained static for a long period and may
is evolving and may provide solutions as the require draining to replace with fresh water.
situation and understanding of each
organisation’s requirements develops. Other
design/equipment control measures include:
 Adding physical screens to separate
reception staff from guests and other
employees at the reception desk.
 Supplying all office staff with their own
equipment such as a laptop, laptop stand,
keyboard and mouse.

15 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

6.9 Work practices and systems solutions 6.11 Emergency service response
Flexible work hours: The aim should be to When planning site activities, the provision of
reduce the amount of time any staff member adequate first aid resources must be agreed
spends in close proximity with other people, and between the relevant parties on site. Emergency
to enable travel on public transport (if needed) plans including staff contact details should be
outside busy periods. Organisations should kept up to date. Also consider:
develop a plan for how many workers can be on  Revisions to your first aid and emergency
site given the type of work they do and the response procedures particularly regarding
space available. Organisations should do the control of infection and the generation of
following: aerosols, e.g. during CPR.
 Potential delays in emergency services
 Stagger start and finish times including
response.
breaks.
 Reviewing the numbers of first aiders and
 Advise staff to stay in the workplace only as their health status or providing additional
long as is needed. competent first aid or trauma resources.
 Introduce flexible schedules to meet
individuals’ travel and home life needs. Advice given to first aiders from the BOHS is
contained in Appendix 2.
 Ensure teams are always made up of the
same personnel to limit the number of people 6.12 Inclusive communication
any individual is exposed to. Inform all staff of changes and what provision has
 Adjust hot-desking practice so there is only been put in place to create a safe workplace and
one user per desk. new working practices to reduce the transmission
of COVID-19. Take the following actions:
6.10 Limit face-to-face time  Inform staff ahead of returning to work to
Minimise the number of people doing a task and reduce anxieties and help them adapt to new
keep work groups or teams the same. Keep all ways of using the workplace. A briefing or
face-to-face/in-person meetings to a minimum. induction is recommended.
Also consider:  Explain the policy or actions being taken to
comply with Government guidance to
 Standing rather than sitting to reduce
reassure all staff that the appropriate steps
meeting duration/discourage unnecessary
are being taken to create a safe workplace.
social engagement.
 To comply with GDPR let staff know how any
 Holding meetings outside where possible.
personal data arising from staff surveys,
 Opening windows in meeting rooms to help questionnaires and medical information will
fresh air circulation. be used, and when it will be destroyed.
 Reassure staff that confidential medical
information is kept confidential.
 Seek feedback and be prepared to change
interventions based on the feedback and
regular reviews of the risk assessment.

16 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 6. Implement risk
control measures

Provide clear instructions and signs to help staff 6.13 Compliance with Equality Act
follow risk reduction measures. Signs should be The risk of direct discrimination/harassment due
clearly visible and any use of text should be to any changes in the workplace to address
limited, and in plain language, taking into COVID-19 should be appropriately mitigated by
account any need for translated versions. This carrying out screening consistently across all
type of information should include: relevant workers. Employers should be alert to
 Directions and timings of one-way systems the risk of indirectly discriminating against
for moving through the building. groups or classes of their workforce by applying
blanket policies to the detriment of any section
 Signage at the front entrance outlining social of the workforce, e.g. employers must be open
distancing rules. to making reasonable adjustments to the
 Clear marking where hand sanitisers are screening process for workers with a disability.
located or where nearby washbasins can be The EHRC has produced guidance for employers
found. to make sure the decisions they are making are
not discriminatory, as well as guidance for
 Providing clear instructions to staff on how employers on making reasonable adjustments.
they should clean their equipment.
This can be found at: https://www.
equalityhumanrights.com/en/advice-and-
guidance/coronavirus-COVID-19-guidance-
employers

17 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 7. Monitor, review
and learn

The risk assessments and measures that are Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advice:
introduced should be continuously reviewed and www.hse.gov.uk/news/coronavirus.htm
effectiveness of control measures should be
monitored and adjusted and developed further, HSE simple risk assessment template and
if necessary. guidance:
www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/
Government guidance on social distancing is likely risk-assessment-template-and-examples.htm
to change over time and this should be complied
with. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are HSE industry specific risk assessment
also likely to introduce sector specific guidance. examples:
www.hse.gov.uk/risk/casestudies/
7.1 Daily review
In the early stages, it is advisable to conduct a HSE advice - Working safely with DSE:
daily review which examines whether: www.hse.gov.uk/msd/dse/
 The changes implemented are still effective,
necessary and are being complied with. HSE advice for home working:
www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/workers/home.htm
 What new guidance has been issued and
whether this will have a bearing on current BICS - Deep cleaning advice from the British
ways of working. Institute of Cleaning Science:
 There are any improvements that can be made. www.bics.org.uk/bicsc-update-to-the-outbreak-
 Any new situations or circumstances are of-COVID-19-coronavirus/
likely during the day/week which need further
planning to maintain the safety of all concerned. British Occupational Hygiene Society:
www.bohs.org/coronavirus-hub/
7.2 Regulations and Standards
Government advice is updated very regularly. It CIEHF workplace sector group page:
is recommended that the COVID-19 response www.ergonomics.org.uk/Public/Get_Involved/
team reviews changes regularly, particularly Group_Details/Workplace.aspx
those that are relevant in an operational context.
The human-centred organisation – guidance
Government advice by industry: for managers:
www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during- www.iso.org/standard/64241.html
coronavirus-COVID-19
Mental health resources:
HM government guidance - Working Safely www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
during COVID-19 in offices and contact centres: www.mentalhealth.org.uk/coronavirus
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/
media/5eb97e7686650c278d4496ea/working- Occupational health guidance for pregnant
safely-during-COVID-19-offices-contact- women who work in a public-facing role:
centres-110520.pdf www.rcog.org.uk/en/guidelines-research-services/
guidelines/coronavirus-pregnancy/COVID-19-
virus-infection-and-pregnancy/#occupational

18 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 8. Mental health and
psychological wellbeing

8.1 Staff should have a clear channel to Encourage staff to maintain regular contact
 
communicate with their line managers or with each other.
supervisors if they are feeling anxious about Provide links to counsellors to help staff
 
returning to the workplace, or any other aspects manage anxiety or encourage them to speak
of their work. This should be outlined in a to their GP. We recommend the following
document and explained to staff. websites for advice:

 Line managers should listen to their staff to https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-

determine how they feel and wherever matters/
possible offer practical and compassionate www.mind.org.uk
advice.
www.mentalhealth.org.uk
 Line managers need to be prepared to make
reasonable adjustments to a member of
staff’s work to alleviate distress and anxiety The CIPD has produced a guide to explain what
around the return to the workplace/ mental health is, the role of employers and the
commuting, etc. legal issues to consider. To access it go to:
https://www.cipd.co.uk/knowledge/culture/
 Where a member of staff is not responsive well-being/supporting-mental-health-workplace-
and demonstrating negative thoughts about return
themselves or others, they should be helped
to access appropriate professional support Managers may also find this link useful for
from occupational health, their GP or similar. helping provide advice to staff:
There is strong evidence to suggest that
  https://bit.ly/2AO6i1S
managers and supervisors who receive training
in mental health issues are able to have more Mental health post-COVID-19 A toolkit form
helpful conversations with staff, making a SOM and the Royal College of Psychiatrists
positive contribution to their wellbeing. https://bit.ly/2MnzizW

Avoid unconscious bias creeping in when

 
teams are working remotely, for example,
don’t just go to the people you feel
comfortable with to contribute or lead on
projects. Feelings of exclusion and anxiety
are counterproductive to high performance
and team working.

19 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 9. Working from home

9.1 Working from home is likely to be a risk This self-assessment can be usefully combined
control measure for many businesses for the with the survey approach outlined in section 7.2.
foreseeable future. Home working presents a
number of challenges to the way work is done, 9.6 For many people working from home there
the distribution of tasks, and roles and may be an increased risk of musculoskeletal
responsibilities. There are also potential risks to disorders due to reduced movement and poor
health, wellbeing and productivity. arrangement of work equipment. Altered or
sub-optimal ways of working may also lead to
9.2 A clear and simple home working policy feelings of stress/anxiety, which is also a
should be drawn up to help staff with this musculoskeletal risk factor.
change in how they work, and to guide
managers who will be addressing staff needs. A full detailed home workstation assessment may
be needed for individuals who report difficulties,
9.3 Some businesses are undertaking surveys to are diagnosed with musculoskeletal conditions, or
identify staff struggling to work comfortably at where there are more complex challenges in
home and who may need additional equipment setting up comfortably. A competent workstation
or support. This is recommended. Carry out a ergonomics assessor can do these remotely,
staff survey to identify equipment needs, and either by phone or video link.
individuals who need additional help to work
comfortably and effectively. Send the CIEHF infographic to staff alongside
any guidance that has already been provided.
9.4 Staff will need guidance, and in many cases https://bit.ly/HFHomeWorking
equipment, to ensure they can work at home
comfortably. This should include: 9.7 If businesses take a decision to go to
planned and permanent home working
Taking into account the practicability of
 
arrangements, then full workstation assessments
providing the equipment, what individuals’
are needed. These can be self-assessments
needs are and their ability to accommodate it
providing that staff are given the information and
within their home.
support required to do them effectively.
Providing IT and equipment support and
 
training to maintain/re-establish effective 9.8 The CIPD has produced a guide with tips for
communication with colleagues and clients. remote working. This can be found at:
https://www.cipd.co.uk/knowledge/
9.5 The HSE advises that during temporary fundamentals/relations/flexible-working/remote-
homeworking there is no requirement for a full working-top-tips
home workstation assessment of each member
of staff. However, HSE advises that employees
can be given guidance to allow them to assess
their own working arrangements. For more
information, go to: https://www.hse.gov.uk/
toolbox/workers/home.htm

20 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 10. Video etiquette

10.1 Video conferencing etiquette: Increased 10.4 If a video call is necessary, before the
working from home and social distancing meeting:
measures have led to an increased reliance on
Ensure that everyone invited to the meeting
 
remote meetings. Following some basic rules/
has clear joining instructions, understands
etiquette that can be adapted depending on the
the purpose of the meeting and why they are
setting can assist businesses in achieving their
there.
desired goals and maintain creativity and
collaboration. Plan a clear agenda, aiming for the meeting
 
to last no more than 50 minutes, if possible.
10.2 Before setting up a virtual meeting or call, it Circulate a list of attendees (including roles
 
is important to identify if this will add value to all and affiliations) in advance to avoid having to
parties. Creating a clear pathway for people to introduce everyone at the beginning of the
communicate will keep work streamlined and meeting.
employees less at risk of video conferencing
fatigue. Ask participants to prepare short slides to
 
accompany their items on the agenda and
10.3 Ask these questions: aim to keep presentations to a maximum of
five minutes.
 What is the purpose of the call/meeting?
Be aware of participants who may be
 
Can it be a phone call? Can it be an email or
  uncomfortable speaking up on screen.
text message? Talking to them beforehand, or making active
 Who really needs to be involved? use of the chat function, will help to engage
and ensure that there is a full contribution
When should people use video calling to
 
from the team.
check-in? Once a day, once a week? And
how long for?
On timings, consider participants’ care duties
 
that may make it more difficult to join a call
during particular hours.

21 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

 10. Video etiquette

10.5 At the start of the meeting: 10.6 During the meeting:

Encourage people to join the meeting five
  Keep microphones on mute, and videos off/
 
minutes early to allow some informal on in line with agreed protocol.
conversation.
Chairperson to manage speakers and
 
 Clarify whether the meeting is to be recorded. conversation, ensuring that all are able to
speak in turn.
Improve feelings of connectivity by allowing
 
time for some open, relaxed discussion both Avoid too much discussion taking place in a
 
pre and post-meetings. side/conversation on the chat screen. Some
people may struggle cognitively to take in
Clarify and agree whether the video will be on
 
spoken discussion and written chat.
for speakers or not; either always on, on only
when speaking, only on for chairperson, or Ensure that the meeting is ended on time.
 
no video.
Integrate stand-up breaks into calls,
 
Explain how any talk/raised hand function
  at least every 20–40 minutes, to enhance
should be used. Good practice for meetings wellbeing and productivity as well as breaks
of more than five people is to ask individuals between meetings to allow for preparation as
to raise their hand, or note in a discussion well as taking a movement break.
that they would like to speak and for the
Have procedures in place that allow everyone
 
chairperson to invite them to speak.
to speak, including those who find it difficult
Ask participants to mute their microphones
  for their voice to be heard.
unless they are speaking.
If bandwidths or connections are low, video
 
should be switched off.
If anyone is sharing their screen, they are
 
recommended to shut down all other files
and applications, including email, to avoid
unintentionally sharing confidential
information.

22 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 1: Return to work survey

This survey is designed to help …company name... decide how and when to safely allow staff to return
to the workplace. Your responses are important to our planning, so please provide any details that you
feel comfortable giving us. Please leave specific answers blank if you would prefer not to respond.

We understand that under normal circumstances we would not be asking you many of these things,
however, it is important now so that we can manage the risks to you and others. All information you give
us will be treated in total confidence by …department/name… and in line with current GDPR
regulations. You have the right to request a copy or withdraw it at any time. Decisions on allowing return
to work will be partly based on your responses.

If you would like further information about the survey and how it will be used, please contact:
…(name / role)…

Thank you for your help

Name: Department / team:

Age: Manager:

Please complete the survey by putting an X in either the ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ column, as appropriate. Please
give any brief details you think relevant.

Yes No Brief details

1. C
 an you work comfortably at home?
(e.g. no aches and pains, at a table or
desk, in a supportive chair, screen raised
and following guidance?).

2. C
 an you work effectively from home?
(e.g. information/ communication/
workflow?). Please provide details if you
cannot work effectively.

3. Is working at home making you feel

anxious, stressed or depressed?

4. A
 re you able to work away from home
given any current care responsibilities
(e.g. children not at school, elderly or
disabled dependents? If n/a – respond
Yes).

23 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 1: Return to work survey

5. Do you have any known COVID-19

increased risk factors?
Please ensure you check the NHS
website for conditions: https://www.nhs.
uk/conditions/coronavirus-COVID-19/
people-at-higher-risk-from-coronavirus/
whos-at-higher-risk-from-coronavirus/

6. D
 o you use public transport to get to and
from work? If Yes, please say if using
bus, train, tube, etc.

7. H
 ave you had, and recovered from,
COVID-19 confirmed by testing?

8. D
 o you have any special access or
support needs at the workplace? (e.g.
when using lifts/stairs are not possible or
when needing assistance with eating or
personal hygiene, etc?).

9. If you are asked to wear a face mask or

gloves, could you wear them
comfortably? (e.g. without them causing/
making worse any conditions like
dermatitis, etc?)

10. D
 o you have your own desk at work
(respond Yes), or do you use a hotdesk
(respond No)?

11. D
 o you have any concerns about
returning to the office?
(e.g. any underlying health conditions
or concerns including pregnancy? If yes
– please let us know what)

 o you consent to having your

12. D
temperature measured at work as part
of our day-to-day screening? (If no –
please briefly outline any concerns)

13. A
 re you familiar with the Government’s
Track and Trace process, and are you
able / willing to use a phone app to
support this where possible? (If no
– please briefly outline any concerns)

24 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 2: COVID-19 Guidance for first aiders

This guidance has been issued to first aid responders to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19
during the pandemic. It is based on guidance from Public Health England and recognises that as a first
responder, a first aider may come into contact with people of unknown medical history/symptoms and,
therefore, there is a possible risk of cross-infection when administering first aid, including that of
COVID-19, unless precautions are taken.

It does not replace the requirement for first aiders to conduct a dynamic risk assessment of any given
first aid situation that may arise, in accordance with standard first aid training.

COVID-19 and route of transmission

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are:

• Recent onset of a new, continuous cough and /or
• High temperature and shortness of breath.
Other symptoms are less common, e.g. headache, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, but may still arise.
Transmission is through respiratory droplets via two routes:
• Direct transfer of droplets via inhalation, to mouth, nose or eyes.
• Touching a surface, person or object that is contaminated and then transferring the secretions to
own mouth, nose, eyes when touching your face.

General Precautions

Precautionary measures require everyone to avoid becoming infected via these transmission routes
through handwashing, not touching your face and social distancing.
First aiders should identify at-risk situations and in any non-emergency situation, the potential for
symptoms should be assessed prior to giving advice/administering first aid and where possible,
should be delivered while maintaining a distance of more than 2m.
Where distancing of more than 2m is not possible, personal protective equipment (PPE), should be worn.

PPE

PPE should be kept close to the point of access/use, ideally in a ‘grab bag’ with a copy of this
guidance.
It is for single use only and must be changed after each first aid intervention and not used between
patients.
It needs to be put on and taken off (‘donned’ and ‘doffed’) in the correct order. (See below)
It also needs to be disposed of as clinical waste.
If distancing of more than 2m cannot be maintained whilst providing first aid, the following PPE must
be provided and worn as a minimum:
• Disposable gloves
• Face mask Type FFP2
• Disposable plastic apron or disposable coveralls
• Eye protection. It also needs to be disposed of as clinical waste in a clinical waste bag.

Provision of alcohol hand rub and masks for patients are also advised.

25 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 2: COVID-19 Guidance for first aiders

Donning and Doffing PPE

Put on PPE every time when administering first aid and breaking the 2m rule.
It is important to keep own hands away from touching your face when donning and doffing PPE to
avoid self-contamination during the process.

Donning
Doffing
Wash or sanitise own hands and put on PPE in
Take off PPE in the following order:
the following order:
• Gloves
• Apron or coverall
• Apron or coverall
• Mask
• Eye protection
• Eye protection
• Mask.
• Gloves.

Resuscitation

Actions:
• Call for help immediately/defib. if required
• Do not place your face close to the patient’s face to check for breathing
• Do not give mouth-to-mouth
• Place a mask over patient’s mouth/nose, if one is available
• Start chest compressions and continue until help arrives
• The defib. can be deployed without increased risk of infection.

Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19

Actions:
• If someone shows the signs of COVID-19, keep person 2m away unless wearing PPE
• Provide them with a mask and keep others away
• Line manager to make arrangements for them to go home and keep them isolated in the agreed
site isolation area until they leave site.
If the patient is significantly unwell, e.g. extremely short of breath, contact the site emergency
response team and/or 999 and advise them of the potential of COVID-19.

This Appendix is taken from the BOHS Return to Work Guide https://bohs.link/return-to-work-guide

26 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 3: Frequently asked questions

Q. I have an employee with asthma. Do they Q. What do we do for an employee who is not
need to self-isolate for 12 weeks? in the ‘extremely vulnerable’ group but is
worried about being at work?
A. Not usually. An area that has caused difficulty
is to define what is meant by ‘severe asthma’. A. We have spoken with a small number of
The Faculty of Occupational Medicine (FOM) people who are not in the extremely vulnerable
advises: group but are worried about coming into work,
either due to their own health, or because they
Members of staff with severe hospital
 
live with someone who is vulnerable. Whereas
diagnosed asthma, including those requiring
Government guidance is that employees should
biologic treatments, maintenance oral
work from home wherever possible, for many
corticosteroids or other
employers this is not feasible for most of their
immunosuppressants, are recommended to
staff.
self-isolate at home in line with current PHE
guidance.
ACAS provide guidance for employers at:
For members of staff taking high-dose
 
https://www.acas.org.uk/coronavirus
inhaled steroids alongside additional
controller treatments for their asthma who
ACAS also advise at: https://www.acas.org.uk/
have suffered two or more asthma
coronavirus/vulnerable-people-and-high-risk
exacerbations requiring oral steroids over the
that employers must be especially careful and
past year and continue to experience
take extra steps for anyone in their workforce
frequent asthma symptoms requiring use of
who is in a vulnerable group.
their reliever medication, line managers
should strongly consider reallocation away
The Government has also published guidance
from front-line duties.
for unpaid carers, usually family members:
Members of staff with mild asthma that is
  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/
well controlled are not at high risk. coronavirus-COVID-19-providing-unpaid-care/
guidance-for-those-who-provide-unpaid-care-
to-friends-or-family
Q. Is an employee with a disability as defined
in the Equality Act 2010 more vulnerable to This Appendix is taken from the Tool Kit
COVID-19, and should they be off work at produced by the Society of Occupational
home for 12 weeks? Medicine (SOM) available on their website at
A. Not specifically as a result of having an https://bit.ly/2ArLwop. SOM acknowledges the
impairment that meets the disability provisions of contribution of Cordell Health in the
the Act. An employee may have a condition development of the toolkits.
causing an impairment and not be at an
increased risk, whereas others who do not have
a disability may still be at increased risk, e.g.
those who are pregnant, and people over 70
years of age without a disability.
Only if a person has a condition as defined in the
Government’s guidance making them extremely
vulnerable to COVID-19, should they be shielded
(for 12 weeks at least).

27 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 4: Advice for employees with a positive COVID-19 test

Q. Can I get re-infected with COVID-19? Q. Should I be retested and wait for a
negative test before returning?
A. If you develop further symptoms of
COVID-19, please self-isolate and re-present for A. Evidence shows that tests can remain positive
testing. The evidence at present on the risk of re- for over 14 days after symptoms subside. At
infection is unclear. present, it is unclear what this means, as more
research is needed in this area. We do know that
after seven days your infectiousness is low.
Q. Am I now immune to COVID-19? Retesting and isolating, awaiting a negative test,
before returning to work is therefore not advised.
A. This is not yet clear but, on the limited data so
Those with a positive test should stay off work
far, you probably have a level of protection that
for seven days and return to work on day eight,
dwindles over time (possibly months). Whether
providing they are well and have not had a high
this immunity prevents all reinfection or merely
temperature for 48 hours.
makes a second round of sickness less intense,
and the period of time for which immunity lasts,
depends on multiple factors, such as genetics,
General advice:
gender, the strength of your initial immune
response, and the characteristics of the virus Q. I have symptoms of a potential COVID-19
itself as it continues to evolve. We will update infection, should I be tested?
this advice as more information becomes
A. If you fall within the Government category for
available.
testing, then yes. Please note that the optimum
time to be tested is within three days of the
Q. I am awaiting a test result. Should I come onset of symptoms; applying for a test as soon
into work? as you get symptoms is advised. Further advice
on eligibility can be found here: https://www.gov.
A. For the most accurate test result, you should
uk/guidance/coronavirus-COVID-19-getting-
apply for a test as soon as you have symptoms,
tested
to be tested in the optimum testing window. You
should not be coming into work whilst awaiting
the results. This is because current evidence
Q. How accurate is the current swab testing?
suggests infection declines very quickly within
seven days of symptoms. Once you have A. The current test used is an antigen test, which
received the test result, inform your manager. If detects viral RNA from a nose and throat swab.
the test is positive, please also update an Due to the speed of the outbreak and the need
absence report. to develop testing, there is limited data about the
accuracy of the test. During the test validation, a
Q. I am having ongoing symptoms despite small sample tested gave an accuracy of 100%.
isolating for seven days, can I come into work? It is difficult to generalise this result to a large
number of real-life tests.
A. Some symptoms, including a cough, but not
continuous cough, and fatigue, can be ongoing
for a time after the infection is over. However, if
This Appendix is taken from the Tool Kit
you are still experiencing a fever or a continuous
produced by the Society of Occupational
cough do not come into work. Self-isolate until
Medicine (SOM) available on their website at
these symptoms have subsided for 48 hours as
https://bit.ly/2ArLwop. SOM acknowledges the
a precautionary measure. The risk of reinfection
contribution of Cordell Health in the
is unclear, and if you re-experience a continuous
development of the toolkits.
cough and high temperature, that is, after 48
hours of being symptom-free, please self-isolate
and re-present for testing.

28 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 5: Risk Assessment Framework

Conduct a risk assessment which addresses how to restrict the transmission of the COVID-19 virus in
the workplace. This essentially involves planning how to conduct work whilst following Government
guidance on social distancing. Like most health risks, reducing the risk from COVID-19 involves the use
of the hierarchy of controls. Whilst the hierarchy focuses on the important aspect of elimination first, it is
essential that a range of controls are adopted and that these are integrated with each other.

• Facilitate home working wherever possible.

• Conduct return to work telephone interviews with staff to identify vulnerable
individuals who may require more stringent social distancing or shielding.
Seek help from occupational health providers on how to do this. Guidance will
be available from the SOM on conducting risk assessments on individuals.
• Introduce self-assessments for all workers and visitors to sites.
• Workers who are unwell with symptoms of COVID-19 should self-isolate in
accordance with Government guidance. They should not travel to, or attend,
the workplace.
• Facilitate testing for those workers who have symptoms and are eligible for
Eliminate
testing.
• Rearrange tasks to enable them to be done by one person, or by maintaining
social distancing measures (two metres).
• Avoid skin-to-skin and face-to-face contact at all times.
• Arrange facilities to maintain social distancing where possible.
• Stairs should be used in preference to lifts and consider one-way systems.
• Create facilities for meetings to take place whilst social distancing, e.g.
electronic meeting spaces, outside discussions or large open spaces.
• Eliminate face-to face meetings where possible.

• Minimising the time workers are in close proximity to others must also include
consideration of the following: process line reconfiguration, changes to shift
patterns, one-way systems for pedestrians, screens, dwell times between
tasks, cleaning regimes and frequent hand washing.
• Where the social distancing measures (two metres) cannot be applied:
- Each event should be risk assessed.
Reduce
- Minimise the frequency and time workers are within two metres of each
other. Where face-to-face contact is essential, this should be kept to 15
minutes or less.
- In circumstances when social distancing is not possible, equally effective
measures must be in place to protect workers from virus infection.
- Minimise the number of workers involved in these tasks.

29 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 5: Risk Assessment Framework

• Consider alternative or additional engineering controls to reduce worker

interface.
• Regularly clean common touchpoints, doors, buttons, handles, vehicle cabs,
tools, equipment, etc.
• Introduce pop-up hand wash stations.
• Make cleaning materials available in the workplace.
• Keep face-to-face meeting numbers to a minimum.
• Review the performance and servicing of mechanical ventilation and air
conditioning systems and use fresh air in preference to recirculated air.
Reduce
• Increase ventilation in enclosed spaces.
• Workers should wash their hands before and after using any shared
equipment.
• Attendees should be at least two metres apart from each other.
• Rooms should be well ventilated/windows opened to allow fresh air
circulation.
• Screen workers and visitors by asking them to complete a health
questionnaire before visiting the workplace.
• Temperature screening may be useful but has limitations.

• Keep groups of workers together in teams/shifts, e.g. do not change workers

within teams.
• Arrange the workplace so that workers are away from others as much as
Isolate possible.
• Consider changing shift patterns, e.g. longer split shifts to reduce the
numbers in the workplace at any one time.
• Stagger break times.

• Where face-to-face working is essential to carry out a task when working

within two metres:
- Keep this to 15 minutes or less where possible.
Administrative - Consider introducing an enhanced authorisation process for these activities.
- Provide additional supervision to monitor and manage compliance.
- Carry out an assessment and review of these activities to identify all
repeatable tasks.

30 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Appendix 5: Risk Assessment Framework

• PPE should not be used as an alternative to social distancing, except where

there is no other practical solution.
• Where close proximity working is required for longer than 15 minutes, assess
the need to issue employees with appropriate PPE.

PPE • Re-usable PPE should be thoroughly cleaned after use and not shared
between workers.
• Consult with an occupational hygienist and HSE guidance about the
possibility of extending the life of single use PPE. Extending the life of single
use PPE should only be done in exceptional circumstances as a result of
shortage of supply.

• Worker behaviour and cooperation will be the key to implementing all of the
controls.
• Carry out inductions to inform people of the changes.
• Encourage an open and collaborative approach between workers.
Behaviour • Trial interventions in places before implementing them across the board.
• Seek feedback and be prepared to change interventions based on the
feedback and regular reviews of the risk assessment.
• Make changes which are sustainable in the medium term.
• Encourage staff to cooperate with Government plans for contact tracing.

This Appendix is taken from the BOHS Return to Work Guide https://bohs.link/return-to-work-guide

31 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19

Acknowledgements

This document has been produced and coordinated by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human
Factors (CIEHF). Dr Noorzaman Rashid (CIEHF) and Emma Crumpton (System Concepts Ltd), with Kirsty
Angerer (The Travelling Ergonomist), and Ed Milnes (Guildford Ergonomics Ltd) are authors of the guide.

Contributors
Nichola Adams, Inspired Ergonomics Ltd
Dr Rob Aitken, Institute of Occupational Medicine
Prof Kevin Bampton, British Occupational Hygiene Society
Matthew Birtles, HSE
Jaqueline Collard, Innoven
Rachel Ganz, ARUP
Dr Roxane Gervais, British Psychological Society
Dr Richard Graveling, CIEHF/Institute of Occupational Medicine
Prof Neil Greenburg, Kings College London
Clive Johnson, International Institute of Risk and Safety Management
Vienna McLeod, International WELL Building Institute
Rick Newman, Risk Assura
Valerie Noble, St Luke’s Hospice
Nick Pahl, Society of Occupational Medicine
David Peregine-Jones,Torus
Prof Christine Poulter, British Occupational Hygiene Society
Chris Ramsden, CIEHF/Chartered Society of Designers
Michelle Reid, Institute of Occupational Medicine
Prof Sarah Sharples, University of Nottingham
Kulbir Shergill, University of Warwick
Prof Mark Sujan, Human Factors Everywhere
Ruth Sims, University of Derby
Alex Smyth, Royal Academy of Engineering
Angela Spangler, International WELL Building Institute
Rachel Suff, CIPD
Jim Taylour, Orangebox
Prof Andrew Thatcher, University of Witwatersrand
Naomi Weir, CBI
Alex Wilson, BOHS/Johnson Matthey
Dr Joanna Yarker, infinity Health

32 Creating a safe workplace during COVID-19 © Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors (CIEHF)