Since March 2020, the UK has had a number of measures in place to help deal with the coronavirus pandemic, ranging from full lockdown to masks, testing and vaccine passports. These measures have been constantly under review and are frequently updated. As the latest easing of the measures comes into force, take a look at what you should and should not do.
Dos
Check the rules for the different nations within the UK, as England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all have different measures in place. Although masks are no longer mandatory in England, many places still require them in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, including public transport, schools and shops.
Continue to wear a mask on TfL services and in hospitals and GP surgeries. Government advice remains to wear them in crowded spaces.
You can talk to your employer about returning to the workplace. In England, the requirement to work from home if possible has been lifted, while Scotland is planning a phased return. However, in Wales, you should continue to work from home if possible. Where workplaces are reopening, check the ventilation, as this is helpful in reducing transmission. A CO2 monitor can help identify poorly ventilated areas.
Isolate following a positive LFT test, as in most cases, there is no need for a confirmatory PCR test. Those who should take a confirmatory PCR test include:
- Those eligible for the test and trace support payment
- Anyone taking part in a research program that requires a confirmatory test
- People with a health condition that may make them eligible for new treatments
- Travellers arriving in the UK who receive a positive LFT test on the second day
Consider regular testing of your employees to help prevent a serious outbreak in the workplace. Matrix Diagnostics provides batches of Covid tests, including a PCR test with laboratory analysis and a rapid Covid-19 test which provides results in 15 minutes. It may not be necessary to isolate for 10 days after testing positive for Covid. Instead take an LFT test on days six and seven, if these are negative then you can leave isolation.
If you haven’t already, get vaccinated, including taking the booster jab. The high uptake of vaccination is a major factor in the country’s ability to ease rules and restrictions.
Don’ts
There is no need to take a pre-departure test before travelling to the UK if you are fully vaccinated or a child, you can instead take an LFT test on arrival. You should also remember that restrictions are not being eased everywhere and if you are travelling, you will need to check the local Covid measures.
Don’t delete your NHS Covid pass even though it is no longer required in England. Some venues in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland still require a Covid pass, as do many countries around the world.
Good hygiene remains essential to help prevent transmission, so don’t let hygiene standards slip. In the workplace, make sure everyone has easy access to handwashing facilities or hand sanitiser, and maintain a thorough cleaning routine.
Importantly, don’t assume everyone is comfortable with the easing of restrictions. The vulnerable and those with vulnerable family and friends may prefer to continue to wear masks and maintain social distancing. Some retailers are requesting that masks continue to be worn on their premises and this should be respected.
