Arun businesses checked to make sure they are Covid-safe

The next round of spot checks began this week, targeting around 800 businesses. Businesses can expect to be contacted initially by phone, with follow-up in person for those that fail, or do not engage with the process.

This follows Step 2 of the roadmap out of lockdown and the re-opening of many businesses.

Nearly 84 per cent of businesses contacted in the second round of spot checks which took place in February, have already passed their check.

During the checks, the council provides advice and guidance to manage risks and protect workers, customers and visitors but where some businesses are not managing this, further action will be taken. This can range from the provision of specific advice and

guidance, carrying out follow up inspections, and in serious cases taking enforcement action, or stopping certain work practices until they are made safe.

Where businesses fail to comply, this can lead to prosecution.

Being Covid-secure means that businesses need to put measures in place to manage risks and protect workers and others from coronavirus.

Karl Roberts, director of place for Arun District Council said: “With the recent change in restrictions it is vital that those businesses opening up for the first time in many months are safe to operate, within Covid guidelines.

“We are talking to local businesses and inspecting sites in the area to understand how they are managing risks in line with their specific business activity.

“Being COVID-secure needs to be the priority for all businesses. It is a legal duty for businesses to protect their workers and others from harm and this includes taking reasonable steps to control the risks and protect people from coronavirus.

“We advise employers to work with their employees when implementing changes to help increase confidence with workers, customers and the local community.”