Coronavirus (COVID-19): Scottish Government Update On COVID Information


COVID-19: Scotland’s move to beyond level 0 (employment implications)

The Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Requirements) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 (SSI 2021/277) came into force on 9 August 2021, revoking Scotland’s protection levels system and allowing all businesses and venues (including those required to remain closed at level 0) to open, with no curfews, gathering limits or physical requirements.

The Scottish Government has substantially updated its guidance to reflect the removal of restrictions and support businesses in adopting measures to mitigate risk. New Precautionary measures guidance, revised Safer businesses and workplaces guidance, and Returning to offices guidance emphasise the need for businesses to take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Although social distancing is no longer required, it is still recommended. Masks must be worn in some places and are recommended in workplaces where it is hard to maintain a safe distance. Homeworking is still advised for the current time, but hybrid working will be encouraged in the long term. Advice for people at highest risk guidance advises that those at highest risk can go to their workplace if desired or if required by their employer.

New self-isolation rules for close contacts came into effect on 9 August 2021. Contact tracing guidance states that close contacts who are fully vaccinated, have a negative PCR test result, and no symptoms do not need to self-isolate.

 

 

Scottish Government Update On Covid Information

Organisations with ten or more employees can now sign up for asymptomatic workplace testing as part of an enhanced drive to identify emerging COVID-19 cases and break chains of transmission.

The workplace testing offer will initially be until the end of September 2021, in line with the universal testing offer. It will include formal volunteers from third sector organisations. More information is available here.

The Scottish Government has also launched a Beyond Level 0 campaign in line with Scotland’s move past local levels. The campaign encourages everyone to ‘Keep Scotland on track’ during this time by getting two doses of the vaccine, continuing with safe behaviours, and testing regularly. It acts as a reminder that everyone should continue to play their part in keeping Scotland safe.

The Beyond Level 0 toolkit attached includes assets for the overarching campaign and the following pillars:

You can download all Beyond Level 0 Assets here.

Guidance for businesses and workplaces on reducing the risk of COVID-19 and supporting staff and customers has been published.