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HSE carrying out COVID spot checks in transport and logistics sector
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced it is proactively checking whether transport and logistics businesses are COVID-19 secure.
In the build up to the festive period, HSE inspectors are working with local authorities to ensure the transport and logistics industry is effectively managing the risk of coronavirus.
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Lockdowns and tier restrictions have resulted in a big increase in online shopping. The surge in online spending is expected to increase over the next few weeks in the run up to Christmas. This will of course increase the activity of the supply chain businesses to online shopping.
HSE inspectors and local authority officers are therefore visiting warehouses and distribution centres across the country to make sure workplaces are COVID-secure and that relevant guidance is being followed.
COVID-secure businesses will have necessary workplace controls in place, such as social distancing and cleaning arrangements, to manage the risk of infection and protect workers and others from coronavirus. The ongoing spot checks are to ensure businesses have suitable toilet and hand washing facilities for all workers, including visiting drivers. If necessary, other health and safety matters will also be checked.
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Information from the visits is to be shared to promote good practice and help the industry meet the combined challenge of COVID and the seasonal surge in demand.
Harvey Wild, Head of the HSE’s Transport and Public Services Unit, says: “The logistics and distribution industry overall has seen a significant increase in business activity over the past few months and, with shops and retail centres closed, there will be a surge in online shopping in the run up to the festive period. As a result of this, we will see an increase in the number of agency and temporary workers in the transport and logistics sector to meet the demand. It’s important that all workers and also customers feel confident that measures are being taken to protect them from COVID-19”.
Legal duty
Mr Wild stresses: “Employers have a legal duty to protect workers and others from harm and this includes taking reasonable steps to control the risk and protect people from coronavirus. We encourage businesses to consult with their workers on the changes they put in place to become COVID-secure. This is to provide reassurance for workers and to also increase confidence in customers and the local community.”
He adds: “Becoming COVID-secure not only benefits the health of our communities and vital businesses, it is also good for the health of the UK economy.”
The HSE warns that action will be taken if employers are found to be not managing the risk. Action can range from providing specific advice to issuing enforcement notices and stopping certain work practices until they are made safe. A business failing to comply can lead to prosecution and criminal conviction.
For more information on ensuring drivers’ welfare at delivery and collection sites during the coronavirus pandemic, visit the HSE website.
Not confident in your COVID compliance?
Our Health & Safety specialists can conduct a full health and safety audit of your premises and practices, review your policies and procedures, and help you maintain safety and compliance throughout the pandemic through a COVID-specific risk assessment, checklists and documentation, e-Learning courses, and practical advice on appropriate controls.
To discuss your needs, call 0345 226 8393 or visit our Coronavirus Advice Hub for access to all our free employer resources, including helpful webinars, practical guides and risk assessment templates.
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