NHS test and trace service in the workplace

Test and Trace

The NHS Test and Trace service:

• provides testing for anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus to find out if they have the virus
• gets in touch with anyone who has had a positive test result to help them share information about any close recent contacts they have had
• alerts those contacts, where necessary, and notifies them they need to self-isolate to help stop the spread of the virus

This updated guidance explains how employers and businesses can play their part in the NHS Test and Trace service to slow the spread of the virus, protect the health and care system and save lives.

This guidance is for England only.

The law requires that employers take steps to keep workers and visitors safe. The Government states that by following the 5 steps for working safely, along with sector-specific guidance, employers can reduce the risk of co-workers having to self-isolate if a member of staff tests positive for COVID-19.

The NHS Test and Trace service does not change existing guidance that employees should work from home wherever possible.
Employers are required to:

• make their workplaces as safe as possible (where working from home is not possible)
• request that workers self-isolate if they have been asked to do so
• support their workers when in isolation

The NHS Test and Trace service:

• provides free testing for anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus
• asks those that test positive and their close contacts to self-isolate to stop the spread of the virus in the workplace

The Government states employers (and the self-employed) must continue to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees. They also have similar obligations in respect of other people, for example, agency workers, contractors, volunteers, customers, suppliers and other visitors.

Click here for the full guidance.

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