As the U.K. begins to open for business, employers are all too aware they face a fresh challenge when it comes to keeping their workplace safe – from both a health and economic perspective. Making workplaces COVID-secure is crucial to the well-being of your team and the sustainability of the business, <a href=”https://www.propertyweek.com/legal-and-prof–people/how-liable-are-landlords-for-covid-19-workplace-risks/5108803.article”>not least because failure to comply could result in legal action.</a>

By now, most top-level management will have thoroughly reviewed the guidelines and actioned these points. From social distancing to hand sanitiser stations, the vast majority of workplaces will have all the trappings of a COVID-secure space. However, it takes more than a bit of sanitiser to keep a workplace safe – it’s an ongoing project. Here, we share three tips to keep businesses COVID-secure in the long-term.

Continuously assess risk

The makeup of the average workplace risk assessment has transformed in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. The list of things management need to take into account is substantial: from lift occupancy to one-way systems, and air conditioning and ventilation, there are numerous measures that companies have to negotiate.

However, looking to the long-term, risk assessments will have to become working documents that continuously evolve. It’s inevitable that new government guidance will be introduced, so employers should consider seeking consultation to stay abreast of the most recent developments.

Clear, open communication

Clearly communicating the guidelines to the team is essential to a harmonious, COVID-secure workplace. Installing posters, floor stickers, and frequent friendly email reminders will ensure your staff are always exercising caution. However, make sure this communication isn’t one way; give your team the opportunity to make suggestions. For instance, a good old-fashioned anonymous suggestion box is a good way to get people to be honest and open.

Implement your own tracking system

Monitoring incidents is key to refining and improving a workplace safety strategy. Seeing patterns will help you identify problem areas and take specific action. This will help you catch problems in their earlier stages before anything can get out of control.

Make your workplace safe – and keep it that way

In light of the coronavirus crisis, it’s vital that we remain vigilant. This isn’t only for the health and well-being of your employees, it’s also for the health of your business. Getting caught up in a localised lockdown wouldn’t only be disastrous for revenue, it could also damage your reputation as an employer. That’s why making a workplace COVID-secure isn’t a one-time fix – it’s an ongoing project.