On the 9th May 2020 the Government published it’s guidance on the safe return to work for employers and workers. The Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out the 5 phases being used to reopen Ireland after the COVID-19 shutdown. Phase 1 comes into operation on the 18th May. That sees a return for outdoor workers, construction, garden centres and hardware stores provided that they can demonstrate social distancing and hygiene protocols. Depending on the progress with containment of COVID-19, the anticipate start dates for the other phases are 8th June (phase 2), 29th June (phase 3) 20th July (phase 4) and 10th August (phase 5).
Every employer must comply with the Return to Work Safely Protocol before they can reopen. The protocol required each employer to develop a COVID-19 Response Plan. The C-19 Response Plan should be designed to complement and strengthen the business’ Risk Assessment and Safety Statement. Every workplace must appoint at least 1 lead worker representative charged with ensuring that COVID-19 measures are strictly adhered to in their place of work. Employers must provide a COVID-19 induction training for all workers.
Cuttle Consulting have been developing COVID-91 Response Plans for clients who are aiming to reopen on May 18th or one of the other phases. If you need help or guidance in development of your business’ C19 Response Plan contact us at paul@cuttleconsulting.ie.
Your Local Enterprise Office may also be able to support you with their Business Continuity Vouchers.