1. Firstly, it may be prudent to carry out a new risk assessment to ensure every possible precaution is being taken and adhered to, and perhaps introduce additional safety measures if necessary. Where possible, employees should be social distancing, on split shifts, in separate workspaces etc.

2. It might be best to inform your employees that a colleague has tested positive for Covid-19 (without revealing the identity of the employee). If deemed at risk, they will be contacted by the HSE contact tracing team. Reiterate that you are following all the recommended health and safety precautions, and that you have conducted another risk assessment to confirm this. Again, reiterate that the contact tracing team will be in contact with them if they are deemed a close contact. Tell them to be extra vigilant, and to keep an eye out for any symptoms that they may develop. If so, they should contact their GP immediately.

3. You can try make arrangements so that employee’s do not come into contact with each other whilst at work. They should work from home where possible.

4. Additionally, if an employee is worried, they should contact their own GP and explain that they may be considered a close or casual contact with a positive Covid-19 case. Their GP will organise a test if they feel it is appropriate. Please note, current HSE guidelines stipulate, ‘if you are deemed a close contact, you need to restrict your movements, regardless if you develop symptoms or not. If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, you must self – isolate and phone your GP for further advice.’ More information can be found here.

5. You as the Employer have a legal duty to take reasonable care for the health and safety of your employees. This means closely monitoring advice from the government, industry bodies and relevant experts, and using such advice to inform the risk assessments and necessary steps to keep employees safe. If you have followed all advice and implemented all possible safety measures (i.e. PPE where necessary, social distancing, disinfectant spray etc.), you have fulfilled your obligations as an Employer.

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