RIDDOR reporting of COVID-19 and Joint HSE, TUC, CBI Statement

The Health and Safety Executive have issued new guidance relating to the reporting of instances of work-related cases of COVID-19.
The guidance is that employers must only make a report under RIDDOR (The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013) when:

• An unintended incident at work has led to someone’s possible or actual exposure to coronavirus.
  • This must be reported as a dangerous occurrence using the relevant online form as soon as possible, although it is advisable to do so within 10 days.

• A worker has been diagnosed as having COVID 19 and there is reasonable evidence that it was caused by exposure at work.
  • This must be reported as a case of disease, and again using the relevant online form as soon as possible, although it is advisable to do so within 10 days.

• A worker dies as a result of occupational exposure to coronavirus. This should be reported as soon as is practical and within 10 days of the death. Call the Incident Contact Centre on 0845 300 9923 (opening hours Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5 pm)

A joint statement has been issued by the Health and Safety Executive, the TUC and the CBI which is intended to clarify the position regarding continued safe working.
The statement reiterates that the health and safety of workers remains paramount, and that employers must continue to provide workers with information about risks to their health and the actions their employers must take.
Social distancing is a key public health measure introduced by Public Health England to reduce the spread of infection. Most employers are going to great lengths to ensure social distancing wherever possible.
However, the HSE have stated that if it comes to their attention that employers are not complying with the relevant Public Health England guidance (including enabling social distancing where it is practical to do so), the HSE will consider a range of actions ranging from providing specific advice to employers through to issuing enforcement notices, including prohibition notices.
You can keep up to date with the latest HSE guidance here.