In the below article, we set out changes for working from home for England and Wales.
England
As of 19 January 2022, there is no longer a requirement for employees to work from home and the guidance has changed to encourage staff back to the workplace.
Face masks are no longer mandatory from 27 January 2022, and the guidance has been updated to suggest wearing one when you are in crowded or enclosed spaces, or if you come into contact with people who you would not ordinarily meet.
Wales
Whilst it is no longer a legal requirement to work from home in Wales, the Welsh government are continuing to advise people to do so.
Face masks are also still required to be worn in most indoor public places. This will be reviewed on 10 February 2022.
What does this mean for an employer?
Despite the updated rules in England and Wales, HSE’s guidance states that employers must continue to control the risks of COVID-19 and update their risk assessments where necessary.
Similarly, HSE continues to suggest the following workplace controls:
- Good hand hygiene;
- Adequate ventilation;
- Sufficient cleaning.