Wednesday 13th marks the start of the government’s phased Covid-19 recovery strategy as the UK moves into a new “stay alert” phase that also sees the reopening of key industries. The Prime Minister said that while people should continue to work from home where possible, those who were unable to work from home should be actively encouraged to go to work, providing their workplace is open. Sectors that are permitted to operate include construction, logistics & distribution, manufacturing, food production and scientific research.
A “Plan to Rebuild” document published yesterday sets out guidance on a phased recovery, including the implementation of “Covid-19 secure” workplaces. Further guidance for individual industries was also published and includes measures such as reducing use of public transport, PPE in the workplace and increased sanitising measures. The PM continued to stress that those who can work remotely should continue to do so, so that those who are unable to can safely return to the workplace.
The document acknowledges that many businesses across the UK have already been highly innovative in developing new, durable ways of doing business, such as moving online or adapting to a delivery model. Many of these changes, like increased home working, have had significant benefits; for example, reducing the carbon footprint associated with commuting. The Government continues to ask all employers and operators of communal spaces to be innovative in developing novel approaches.
While construction and high value car manufacture were two of the first industries to resume operation, Mr Johnson said that phase two will involve reopening more shops and allowing some primary aged pupils to return to school - hopefully by June 1st. The third and last phase of lifting the lockdown could see some hospitality businesses and other public places reopen by 1st July. This is conditional on data confirming that that the rate of infection is under control, and that the government is able to sustain increased testing and secure adequate PPE.
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