RABDF outlines nine steps to safeguard UK dairy workers as Covid-19 restrictions ease
The UK government has issued new guidelines for farm workers as Covid-19 restrictions begin easing to make sure workplaces are as safe as possible.
Issued on 11 May, the guidelines detail specific steps farm workers, including seasonal labour, should adhere to, to help protect them from the risk of Covid-19.
The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) has summarised the 31-page government document into nine key steps, which are as follows:
- Assessing the risk
- Who can work?
- Implementing social distancing
- Managing common areas
- Managing external visitors
- Provide signage
- Implement frequent cleaning
- Use of Personal Protective Equipment and masks coverings
- Managing goods arriving and leaving the farm
RABDF managing director, Matt Knight, said: “While cases of coronavirus continue to drop, as an employer, you have a legal responsibility to protect workers and others from risk to their health and safety.
“This means you need to think about the risks they face and do everything reasonably practicable to minimise them, recognising you cannot completely eliminate the risk of Covid-19.
“It is important all employers and employees follow the guidelines to safeguard themselves and their workers. This includes protecting contractors such as those coming onto the farm during the silage season and trying to implement social distancing where possible.”
Details on the RABDF’s nine steps can be found by visiting: .
To view the 31-page government guidelines, visit: .
