Working from home
[ch 1: page 24]The government is no longer instructing people to work from home if they can and has expected and recommended a gradual return to workplaces over the summer. However, the guidance recommends employers “remain responsive to workers’ needs”, particularly as not every adult has been offered two vaccine doses, and “adopt practices that help to reduce the risks to individuals in the workplace”. It recognises that many employers are looking at future hybrid working models which include an element of home working.
“Whatever model you choose to follow for the longer term, you should discuss it with those who might be affected and also with employee representatives,” it advises.
Employers should discuss the timing and phasing of any return with workers and consult with them on any health and safety measures put in place to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading.
The workplace risk assessment should reflect the fact that workers are coming into the place of work and employers should take action to manage the risk of Covid-19 spreading in line with the guidance.