New Regulations have been made, which came into force on 28th September 2020 (in England only).
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Self-Isolation) (England) Regulations 2020 are complex. They set out mandatory periods for self-isolation, and a duty to notify the Secretary of State of the names of people in the same household of anyone who has tested positive for Covid-19.
Changes for employers:
- It is now an offence for an employer to knowingly permit a worker (including an agency worker) to attend any place other than where the individual is self-isolating.
- This includes individuals who are required to self-isolate because they live with someone who has tested positive.
So if an employer knows a worker has tested positive (or lives with someone who has tested positive), it is now responsible for stopping the worker from working (unless they can work from home). Any employer who fails to do so will face a fine, starting at £1,000 (reg 7).
Changes for employees:
- There is also an obligation on the worker to tell their employer that they are self-isolating (reg 8). Any individual who breaches self-isolation will, normally, commit a separate criminal offence (reg 11).
If you require any further help or assistance with the new changes. Then please get in contact with a member of the Ward Williams HR on 01932 830664 or email sally.phillips@wardwilliams.co.uk.