Based on changes introduced by the UK Government, COVID-19 requirements are changing from 19 July 2021.

Case numbers continue to increase rapidly. It remains a legal requirement for all positive COVID-19 cases and their contacts to self-isolate for 10 days.

We encourage Hertsmere businesses, residents and the wider public to continue to implement and observe social distancing, use of face coverings, hand washing etc. to protect each other; provision of fresh air ventilation to all inside spaces is also important. Business should review their risk assessments and ensure that the risks from Covid-19 are controlled as far as possible.

Better Business for All have created a document entitled COVID Sense IS Common Sense:The Way Forward. A handy document filled with practical steps on how to maintain control and links to additional support for businesses at this time.

If you have any queries please contact your Environmental Health Team

All government announcements on Coronavirus

This page will be updated, as and when new information and guidance is announced.

Guidance for businesses during Covid-19

You must ensure your premises are 'covid secure' and you are aware of any changes which affect your business sector. You must conduct a risk assessment specific to your business and complete the 'Covid secure' checklist.

If you have any questions please contact your Environmental Health team.

Collection of customer, visitor and staff details and QR Codes

Requirements for collecting customer, visitor and staff contact details has changed.

The Collection of Contact Details Regulations requires you to display a NHS QR code poster and request that customers and visitors check in to your premises. If individuals do not have the NHS COVID-19 app you must have a system in place to collect their details.

You must now request that every individual scans the NHS QR code or provide their contact details upon arrival, not just the lead member of the group.

An open letter to all businesses who must collect contact details (PDF 76 KB)

New Venue Alerts Process - A guide for businesses poster (PDF 144 KB)

Hospitality Fact Sheet - Venue Check In Regulations poster (PDF 561 KB)

Hospitality venues only: You must take reasonable steps to refuse entry to those who refuse to participate. This means you must to the best of your ability comply with the requirement to refuse entry. 

Further guidance on the requirements:

Maintaining records of staff, customers & visitors to support NHS Test & Trace - .Gov.uk

Guidance to ensure you are GDPR compliant when collecting and storing contact details - The Information Commissioners Office (ICO)

If you are unsure how these new regulations affects your business please get in touch.

How to create a Coronavirus NHS QR code for your business

 

Risk assessments and working safely

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has produced guidance on risk management and for working safely during the coronavirus outbreak.

HSE guidance on risk assessments

An example template of a COVID-19 risk assessment - Please note this has been produced by HSE of Northern Ireland, the law relating to which businesses can remain open or re-open may differ to England.

Risk assessment template (Word 29kb)

HSE Risk assessment template (PDF 588kb)

Guidance on legionella

Guidance on legionella risks during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Ventilation Guidance for Businesses

Better Business for All has produced guidance for businesses on Ventilation to help prevent the transmission of Covid-19. 

Ventilation Guidance (PDF 239KB)

Guidance and checklist for re-opening food businesses

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) have produced guidance and a checklist for food businesses re-opening during COVID-19:

Further guidance is also available from Gov.uk:

Working safely for different work sectors

The Government has produced guidance to working safely during the coronavirus for twelve specific work sectors:

Working safely during Coronavirus

Play Your Part Campaign - Protect your workforce

Hertfordshire County Council have put together a toolkit for local businesses to ensure they are Covid Secure.

The toolkit has a number of resources available including posters, leaflets, guidance, checklists and templates to help local businesses.

Other useful information:.

Flow chart for workplaces showing steps to take if there is a suspected or confirmed case of Covid-19

Play your part poster for businesses

Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership - Support for Hertfordshire Businesses

The Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership has  a toolkit of advice and support for local businesses re-opening, diversifying or manufacturing new products during the coronavirus pandemic. The toolkit has been updated following the Governments Roadmap out of lockdown announcement.

Holding Events during Coronavirus

Any events must be Covid secure. The Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership has produced guidance on hosting secure events.

Further information on organising an event can be found on our dedicated Event page.