General
Guidance for employers regarding the coronavirus from ACAS

With
more cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), being reported in the UK each day,
employers will be wondering how to handle the issue especially as they may need
to react fast if a situation develops in the workplace or if there are concerns
about the health of a particular employee.

John Cato of Witan Solicitors in Birmingham and Northampton, advises employers to get prepared with some sensible precautionary measures and highlights where to keep up to date on the latest guidance.

The
best way for employers to keep abreast of the current advice is by visiting the
following websites regularly:

Government guidance for employers and businesses

This website, with information from Public Health England
and Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, provides guidance
on:

• the novel coronavirus, COVID-19;
• how to help prevent spread of all respiratory
  infections;
• what to do if someone at work is suspected or
  confirmed to have COVID-19;
• what advice to give to individuals who have travelled
  to specific areas; and
• actions to take if staff come into contact with
  someone who is self-isolating or is a possible or confirmed case of COVID-1

Acas – Good practice advice for employers

This website provides
advice on practical issues, including:

• sick pay
• if employees do not want to go to work
• if someone becomes unwell at work
• if someone with coronavirus comes to work
• if the employer needs to close the workplace

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.

If you would like to talk to one of our employment law solicitors, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Please note that the advice may have changed since this article was emailed.