The British Safety Council has warned of the threat the Omicron COVID-19 variant poses to the workplace and how employers can best manage the risks, particularly in the run up to Christmas.
Mike Robinson, chief executive of the British Safety Council, said: “Most employers have taken sensible precautions during the pandemic to help protect their staff against catching or passing on COVID-19.
“The swift way they responded to new Government guidance ensured that the workplace did not become the source of transmission that people feared it might. It is vital that we all maintain our efforts, and don’t let down our guard, especially when we are waiting to find out exactly what risks Omicron may pose to our health and the way COVID-19 could spread further.”
Mr Robinson continued: “Employers will know their organisation best and be able to judge what they can and should do. We would advise them to review and where possible avoid any non-essential face-to-face contact.
“This may mean some or all staff working remotely, holding meetings online where it is feasible to do so and, yes, looking at postponing Christmas parties until we are clearer on the risks, especially if they are bringing large numbers together and where non-essential travel is involved.”