UPDATE - Government advice on working in homes, especially self isolating and shielding

The government have released the following updated advice on social distancing for tradespeople during the coronavirus pandemic.

Working in your customer’s home

Government advice is clear:

1. Perform essential repairs and maintenance if you are well, have no symptoms & tell customers before you arrive.

2. On arrival, wash your hands with soap & water for 20 seconds then wash hands regularly, particularly after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing, and when leaving.

3. If you cannot wash your hands, use hand sanitiser and have it with you at all times.

4. Always keep a safe distance of at least 2 metres from any occupants and ensure good ventilation where you are working, including opening windows.

5. Do not work in any home self isolating or shielding individuals unless stopping a direct risk to their safety - For example, emergency plumbing, heating or electrical repair.

When working in a self isolating or shielding property, take these additional steps:

• Ask householders to stay in a separate room or as far away as possible

• Ensure before you arrive someone other than the vulnerable person opens their door and avoid face to face contact with any vulnerable person during your visit

• Be VERY strict about handwashing and respiratory hygiene

• When you finish, say which surfaces and areas you’ve touched and worked in and clean them before leaving using this guidance - Read the guidance on cleaning and waste

6. Do not perform ANY work if you have coronavirus symptoms, however mild.

See here for the Government’s full advice: