Does Plan B mean that I cannot go into the office?

In an effort to tackle the large rise in Coronavirus cases, the government has recently implemented Plan B, which includes measures to try and reduce the spread of the virus.

In relation to those working in offices, the guidance states that “Office workers who can work from home should do so”. However, there are some exceptions to that recommendation. For example, when it is necessary to access certain equipment to allow a person to do their job.

The government has clearly taken into account the toll that working from home has had on certain individuals, as the guidance states that employers should consider whether working from home is appropriate for those “facing mental or physical health difficulties, or those with a particularly challenging home working environment.”

What has not changed is an employer’s obligation to provide for a safe working environment, and employers should remember this if staff will be going into the office.

The law in this article is current as of 20 December 2021.

If you have any employment law queries, please do not hesitate to contact David Nathan at [email protected] or on 020 7822 2247.

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