Plan B Restrictions to end in England

On 19 January, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the end of Plan B restrictions in England. The Prime Minister told MPs that scientists believed the omicron variant had peaked nationally and that the government has been looking to reintroduce plan A. 

The New Rules

From 27 January the government will look to end all current plan B coronavirus restrictions in England, with advice to work from home ending with immediate effect. Health Secretary, Sajid Javid said that this should not be seen as the finish line, as the virus and future variants cannot be eradicated. He continued on to say “we must learn to live with Covid in the same way we live with the flu”

Sajid Javid urged people to continue to take the steps needed to keep the virus at bay, hand washing, ventilation and self-isolation if positive. The health secretary emphasized the importance of those currently unvaccinated coming forward and getting their jabs.

The Prime Minister laid out a number of changes that will help the country move away from the Plan B restrictions. These changes are as follows:

• People are no longer advised to work from home and should begin discussions with their employers for a return to the office.
• Face masks are no longer be mandatory, however the government has advised the use of face masks when in enclosed or crowded spaces, and when meeting strangers. 
• Mandatory Covid passports for entering nightclubs and large events are no longer needed, however, businesses can still choose to use the NHS Covid pass if they wish.
• Pupils in secondary school are no longer required to wear face masks in classrooms and government

The Prime Minister also announced that easing of restrictions on care home visitation and travel in England are expected in the near future.

Why is this Happening?

Citing the latest infection rates from the office of national statistics, Boris Johnson said that data is showing that the infection levels are falling in England and hospital admissions had stabilised.

The prime minister acknowledged the significant pressure on the NHS in the North-West and North-East of England and said that cases are expected to continue rising in primary schools, but stated the government will set out its long-term plan for dealing with Covid soon.

How can HPC help?

This sudden decision to end plan B restrictions may have taken some employers by surprise. Despite this, however, it is essential employers take the correct approaches and follow the relevant procedures when adapting to these new rules.

Our health and safety team are highly experienced in many different industries and are here to assist you during this period of transition. If you are looking to bring staff back into the workplace after a long period of remote work, it is essential a risk assessment is completed, in addition, it would be useful to update any written health and safety policies to reflect the new coronavirus rules.

Get in contact with our team today to discuss navigating the period of transition caused by the end of plan B further

T: 0844 800 5932

E: contact@highperformanceconsultancy.com

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