Returning to work

If you’re unsure, check the government guidance:

As lockdown measures are starting to be lifted take a look at this government guidance to see when your industry can reopen.

People may only travel to work if it is “not reasonably possible” to work from home. This means that employers cannot insist on a worker going into a workplace if they can work from home.

Read the FAQ's regarding homeworking (PDF, 194KB)

If you can work from home, you should also implement the following:

• Home working policy

• Home working risk assessment

• Provide guidance and information on remote working best practice

• Set up a communications plan and ensure your staff are trained and informed

• Further information on these topics is available on MentorLive, our free HR and Health & Safety management system.

The government, in consultation with industry, has produced guidance to help ensure workplaces are as safe as possible. These guides provide details on who should go to work, social distancing at work, cleaning and sanitising, PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and more.

• Construction and other outdoor work

• Factories, plants and warehouses

• Homes

• Labs and research facilities

• Offices and contact centres

• Restaurants offering takeaway or delivery

• Shops and branches

• Vehicles

A business continuity plan allows you to prepare in advance the processes and procedures to help you cope with future unexpected events. Use this template to complete a continuity plan for your business.

Mentor Business Continuity Plan (PDF, 92KB)

Following any closure or change in business operating model due to coronavirus, the immediate reaction of many business owners is to reopen as soon as possible.

However, it's likely that the weeks and months to come will be anything but “business as usual” for business, employees, suppliers and customers. Working through this checklist can help you assess if you're ready to reopen your business.

Mentor Business Recovery Checklist (PDF, 521 KB)

Sector specific checklists are available on MentorLive, our free HR and Health & Safety management system.

Use the template below to complete your risk assessment.

Mentor Risk Assessment (PDF, 123KB)

An example Covid-19 risk assessment is available on MentorLive, our free HR and Health & Safety management system.

Once all measures identified in the risk assessment have been implemented, you must display this poster (PDF, 364KB).

You must communicate with all staff to ensure they are aware of the risk assessment and control measures implemented.

Use the communication guidance provided below to inform employees of measures you are implementing to protect them from Covid-19.

Mentor staff communication guide (PDF, 246KB)

We also recommend you display these posters in your workplace.

NHS coronavirus Poster 1 (PDF, 281KB)

NHS coronavirus Poster 2 (PDF, 5KB)