Guidance on new coronavirus health and safety regulations available for Northampton businesses

Businesses in Northampton can get advice and guidance on how the new coronavirus health and safety regulations apply to them from the council.

Many companies are allowed to reopen after some lockdown restrictions have been lifted, including factories, offices, construction sites, drivers and tradespeople.

But there are strict rules to prevent Covid-19 spreading relating to social distancing, good hygiene, enhanced cleaning, shielding those who are particularly vulnerable to severe illness and supporting employees with symptoms to self-isolate.

Northampton Borough Council cabinet member for environment Mike Hallam said: “This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone and we’re doing everything we possibly can to support businesses and help them through these unprecedented times.

“I appreciate how hard it is for businesses that are closed, and in some cases operating very differently, but only by working together, we can defeat this virus.

“I know that the vast majority of individuals and organisations are following the guidance.

"I would appeal to everyone including the business community to carry on with the great work protecting customers and staff and I encourage everyone who requires further clarification on the new rules to contact our environmental health and licensing team.”

One of the businesses receiving tailored advice on social distancing and protective measures from the council is Poundland.

The Covid-secure measures recommended included reduced staff numbers, floor distance markings to reiterate the two-meter rule, increased cleansing regimes, the introduction of new perspex screens, virtual monitoring visits, managing customers numbers in and out of the store.

The advice from the council can be provided informally or via a legally recognised partnership through the primary authority scheme.

For more information advice and guidance, contact the council’s environmental health and licensing team at [email protected] or visit the website.