From 20 September, attendance at the workplace for specific business requirements for those still working from home, may commence on a phased and staggered basis. Organisations need to have a plan in place to operate this staggered and phased return. From 20 September to 22 October 2021, all public health guidance remains in place for workplaces. This includes the requirement for physical distancing, the wearing of masks and appropriate ventilation.

A revised Work Safely Protocol (16 September 2021) reflects updated public health advice and knowledge. It includes new symptoms associated with the Delta variant of COVID-19 and additional information on ventilation, and vaccinations.

It reinforces that the decision to get a vaccination against COVID-19 is voluntary and employees make their own individual decisions in this regard. It refers to the advice from the Data Protection Commissioner whereby the processing or requesting of information on an individual’s vaccination status is generally not appropriate, with certain exclusions. However, employers are encouraged to provide advice and information on the vaccination programme so that employees have the necessary information to make an informed decision, especially for those whose first language is not English.

The protocol highlights the importance of maximising ventilation in areas where people are in close contact. Dilution of indoor air by opening windows and doors or using mechanical ventilation systems can lower the airborne concentration of the virus. Reoccupying workplaces should not, in most cases, require new ventilation systems but improvements to ventilation will help increase the quantity of clean air and reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. Ventilation should not be seen as a replacement for the other infection prevention and control measures such as hand-washing, surface cleaning, respiratory etiquette, physical distancing, wearing masks/face coverings and vaccination.

Employers are being encouraged to consult with employees and can use the extensive new Returning to the workplace checklist that has been produced by the Health and Safety Authority. It is based on the workplace safety protocol and will aid your planning around the building, employees returning, Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Tests, working in the office, isolation procedures, canteen and welfare, travel, visitors and, of course, GDPR. The continued public health requirements for self-isolation/restricted movements for those with symptoms (who should immediately seek a test); those with positive test results; and close contacts of confirmed cases, unless fully vaccinated with no symptoms, all remain in place.

A cautious and stepped approach should be adopted at all times, in the light of prevailing level of risk and government guidance. Return should be phased, so all employees do not return at the same time. Bear in mind that attendance initially is for specific business requirements, so plan for appropriate attendance levels, social distancing, the use of staggered arrangements, such as flexible attendance and non-peak travel times. Read our FAQs for more information.

The government is also calling on employers to consult and start to develop longer-term arrangements for blended or remote working in view of operational requirements. Direction on future plans will help to reduce uncertainty and anxiety.

From 22 October, further restrictions are to be lifted. The government’s plan is to lift the majority of restrictions, including the requirements for physical distancing, and replace them with guidance and advice to protect ourselves and to live our lives to the fullest extent possible. The approach will bring a gradual move from regulations to personal responsibility and employers will need to reinforce safe working practices.

From 22 October, further restrictions are to be lifted. The government’s plan is to lift the majority of restrictions, including the requirements for physical distancing, and replace them with guidance and advice to protect ourselves and to live our lives to the fullest extent possible. The approach will bring a gradual move from regulations to personal responsibility and employers will need to reinforce safe working practices.