Coronavirus – Advice for Employers and Employees

As the virus now appears to have arrived in Leeds and Bradford at the start of this month and to assist employers with protecting the health and safety of their staff, we would recommend the following action –

• Keep employees updated on actions being taken to reduce risks of exposure in the workplace.

• Ensure all employee’s contact numbers and emergency contact details are up to date.

• Ensure managers know how to spot symptoms of the virus and are clear on any relevant process. For example, sickness reporting and sick pay in the event that someone in the workplace develops the virus.

• Ensure there are clean places to wash hands with hot water and soap and encourage employees to wash their hands regularly.

• Give out hand sanitizers and tissues and encourage their use.

• Consider if protective face masks could help for people working in vulnerable situations.

• Consider if any travel planned to any effected areas is essential.

An employer must not single anyone out and must not treat an employee differently because of their race or ethnicity.

The workplace usual sick leave and pay entitlements apply if an employee has Coronavirus.

Employees should let their employer know as soon as possible if they are not able to go to work.

An employee may need to make allowances if their sickness policy requires evidence from the employee, as the employee may not be able to get a fit note if they have been told to self isolate for 14 days.

There are further steps that can be taken if an employee is unfortunate enough to contract the virus and please contact Ian Furness at Brearleys in that event on 01924 443900.