The UK Government today released its new tier system that will come into affect from 2nd December 2020.
Like many areas, you will probably find yourself in one of the top two tiers for the foreseeable.
But what do the new rules mean for businesses going forward?
Like before, there are still rules in place that apply to all 3 tiers, the most relevant for businesses are:
- a face covering must be worn, unless they have an exemption
- socially distance
- wash your hands
- walk or cycle where possible, plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes when travelling
Then we get into the specifics of each tier – so lets break it down per tier:
Tier 1: Medium alert
- businesses and venues can remain open, in a COVID secure manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs
Tier 2: High alert
- businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a COVID-Secure manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs
Tier 3: Very High alert
- large business events should not be taking place
- avoid travelling to other parts of the UK, including for overnight stays other than where necessary, such as for work
The new guidance seems quite clear for both tiers 1 & 2 in that you can still operate as normally as possible, as long as you are COVID-19 secure and have taken the necessary precautions – this isn’t a huge change from what many businesses have been doing for most of 2020.
However, as soon as you get to tier 3, the guidance seems to be a little vague – reading between the lines it appears to suggest that large business events are a definite no no and that you should only go into your place of work if it is absolutely necessary. As before, it would seem that home working will be encouraged and should be adopted where at all possible.
As with previous COVID-19 guidance, this is highly likely to be amended over the upcoming weeks and months and here at SECC we will do our best to bring you the latest news that is relevant to businesses.
If you require assistance in helping to make your business COVID-19 secure then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Source: Gov.uk