COVID-19 position restated at Industry Forum

COVID-19 position restated at Industry Forum

At the Glass and Glazing Covid-19 Circle, the GGF once again underlined its position on the issue around installers working during the Coronavirus pandemic.

John Agnew, Managing Director attended the online forum and afterwards stated;

“I was pleased to relay the GGF’s position on this serious issue. Though some in our industry appear to be making up their own rules and guidance on this issue and are misrepresenting the GGF, let me clarify. We have consistently followed the Government’s guidelines. It can’t be any clearer; if it is safe to work to the Government and Public Health England guidance, then tradespeople can work in domestic homes.”

The GGF recently published clear three-point criteria for installers to help them make the decision to work in domestic properties.

The GGF position in line with the Government’s advice and Public Health England Guidance urges employers to do the following:

1. Only continue to work if it is safe to do so within the health and safety guidelines as published on the Government website
2. Conduct a thorough health and safety risk assessment
3. Check with your insurers that you covered for Public Health and Health and Safety Employer liability

Earlier this month, the GGF sought and gained Government clarification on the issue of essential and non-essential workers operating in a persons’ home.

On the 7^th of April, the Government department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Directorate of Construction clarified:

“There is currently no distinction between essential and inessential construction work in England. The Government’s position is that construction work can continue, provided the worker is not displaying symptoms of Covid19, does not need to self-isolate for another reason, and that the work can be done in a manner consistent with the guidelines published by Public Health England (PHE).”

PwC hosted the COVID-19 Circle on 27 April, to provide a mechanism for companies to discuss industry specific issues of common interest to help the industry supply chain re-establish post- COVID-19 and enhance risk management procedures. It also provides an open forum for shared technical knowledge and experience.

In summary, John Agnew added, “It was good to take part in this online forum and we will do so again to ensure our Members are being properly represented and our thoughts and positions are made clear. If any company is unsure of where they stand with the Government guidance I would suggest they either visit the Government’s own website for confirmation. If greater clarity is required on the GGF’s position, then please contact the GGF directly.”