The HSE received 5,585 whistleblower reports from employees related to coronavirus risks in the workplace between March and the end of November 2020. Of those, 2,685 specifically reported failures of their employers to implement social distancing rules in the workplace.
Employment firm GQ Littler has pointed out that 25% of all reports from employees on social distancing were made in October and November, and said many concerns over Covid-19 measures are still being ignored by employers.
The HSE - which has powers to take enforcement action against both businesses and senior managers/directors for breaches - has said it will carry out spot checks to check that businesses are Covid-19-secure.
Sophie Vanhegan, partner at GQ Littler, said: “Aside from the public health considerations, the repercussions of non-compliance could include enormous reputational damage. Employers need to make sure that they not only have robust policies in place but that they are continuing to review these to ensure they are being followed.”