HSE has published guidance on when and how you should report coronavirus incidents under RIDDOR (the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013).
RIDDOR applies to all sectors and workplaces in Great Britain. You should only make a report under RIDDOR, relating to coronavirus, when:
- an accident or incident at work has, or could have, led to the release or escape of coronavirus. This must be reported as a dangerous occurrence
- a worker has been diagnosed as having COVID-19 attributed to an occupational exposure to coronavirus. This must be reported as a case of disease
- a worker dies as a result of occupational exposure to coronavirus
Air conditioning and ventilation during the coronavirus pandemic
Good ventilation can help reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus in the workplace.
It is important to focus on improving general ventilation, preferably through fresh air or mechanical systems.
Where possible, consider ways to maintain and increase the supply of fresh air, for example by opening windows and doors (unless fire doors).
Health and safety COVID-secure spot checks ongoing
HSE is carrying out spot checks and inspections on all types of businesses in all areas to ensure they are COVID-secure.
By calling and visiting premises and speaking directly to employers, we can check the measures they’ve put in place are in line with government guidance.
- how spot checks and inspections work
- what our inspectors will need to check
- how they can help you keep your workplace COVID-secure
- actions we will take if employers are not managing the risk of COVID spreading
Legionella risks during the coronavirus pandemic
Employers, the self-employed and people in control of premises, such as landlords, have a duty to protect people by identifying and controlling risks associated with legionella.
If your building was closed or has reduced occupancy during the pandemic, water system stagnation can occur due to lack of use, increasing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease.
HSE has published a range of coronavirus-related guidance and information, which you may find useful.
It includes:
- Social distancing in the workplace
Make sure you are keeping people apart to help reduce the spread of coronavirus – our step-by-step guide can help ensure your workplace is COVID-secure - Cleaning and hygiene
How to clean your workplace to reduce risk from coronavirus