On Friday 20th November the Government published the new Work Safely Protocol. This guidance has replaced the Return to Work Safely Protocol issued last May.  The guidance incorporates current advice on the Public Health measures needed to reduce the spread of Covid-19 in the community and workplace, as issued by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) and the Department of Health. The protocol sets out the minimum measures required in every place of work to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and to facilitate the re-opening of workplaces following temporary closures and the ongoing safe operation of those workplaces.

There are areas where knowledge has developed since the start of the pandemic and businesses need to review their Covid-19 Response Plan and any other associated policies, procedures, and training documentation to ensure that they are aligned to the requirements in the new Protocol.

Please see template checklist HERE to assist you in the review process.

The Health and Safety Authority will remain the lead Agency in relation to co-ordinating compliance with the Work Safely Protocol. It will continue to be supported in this role by inspectors from a range of other Government Departments and State Bodies.