The impact of globalisation, political uncertainty, increased use of technology and the emergence of Covid-19 means that even sophisticated organisations with change management protocols and crisis plans are likely to have had to adapt them to reflect the “new normal”.

Notwithstanding the reasons and urgency for change (government advice, for example) the duties that Organisations owe to ensure the safety of their employees and those who may be affected by their undertaking remain unaffected.

Organisations are increasingly required to be innovative, to change the way they work without the luxury of time to plan and to reflect on the impact of these changes. It may also be the only way they can survive as a business in the current circumstances.

It is therefore essential that any new risks within or created by changed business activities are identified and addressed.

Take the example of a restaurant business which has adapted its business model to provide home delivered food. The issues facing it may include:

FAQs

• Have you changed the nature of business in a material way which might affect insurance required. A restaurant business which has diversified to provide home deliveries will need to consider motor insurance cover.
• Consider new risks for employees e.g. Driving, Lone working , PPE, COVID-19 , Manual handling, Mental Health and Wellbeing issues and update risk assessments where appropriate. Communicate these changes to those affected.
• Consider whether you have appropriate numbers of staff, skills, supervision.
• Consider measures required to address risks and whether they are still suitable nd sufficient, or need updating.
• Consider risks to customers , hygiene guidance, social distancing etc.
• Monitor and review measures (eg if staffing numbers or skills available reduce due to illness and government guidance given the rapidly changing nature of advice).
• Do you require services from others which if not available may have an impact on risk – e.g. statutory inspections of equipment.
• Consider product safety and the impact of any change to service e.g. way in which allergens are communicated, or temperature of food is maintained.
• Consider Licensing arrangements, guidance on age restricted sales.
• Consider arrangements for drivers, licence checks business insurance.

The above is by no means a comprehensive list of questions but gives an insight into the risks which if not considered an Organisation may otherwise unwittingly expose itself and others to.

DACB Health and Safety Corporate Solutions team is running a series of Spring webinars to assist Organisations with managing legal risk in a changing environment.

For more information or advice, please contact Sally Roff, or another one of our experts in our regulatory team.