Essential Covid 19 guidance for Shropshire businesses

With the Covid 19 threat causing such uncertainty currently, we urge all Shropshire businesses to do everything they can to limit the spread of the virus. Think twice about every movement and interaction and ask yourself: is it really necessary? The only way to beat this virus is to stop physical person to person spread. This will save many lives and reduce the amount of time we spend in lockdown.

For businesses that have to remain open, you must put in place robust procedures to prevent the spread of the virus. Tips include:

• Employees and members of the public must remain two metres away from any another person at all times. If you're permitted to remain open you will need to manage customers coming into your business to maintain this separation
• Use click and collect or delivery where you can to minimise contact
• Maintain good personal hygiene with regular and thorough hand washing with soap and hot water. If a basin isn't available use hand sanitisers
• Don't ask members of the public to sign for items
• Ask members of the public if they're self-isolating or have any symptoms of Covid 19 infection

If your business is permitted to stay open and movement is essential, you must determine the safest way to do this whilst adhering to government guidance. We must all act together now.

Government guidance is as follows:

• Businesses to close and exemptions
• Guidance for businesses from Public Health England on preventing the spread of Covid 19
• Guidance for employers and employees
• Business FAQs
• Employers and businesses - What you need to know

There is a risk posed by uncontrolled trading resulting in public gatherings.  Businesses must not trade from any open spaces where they don't have permission and can't practice safe social distancing. Any food trader must also be registered with Shropshire Council. Specific Food Safety advice regarding Covid 19 can be found on our Food Safety pages.

We ask for your co-operation and will help with advice, but we will take enforcement action should the need arise to protect the most vulnerable in society.

If Shropshire businesses or residents require more information please email: advicecompliance@shropshire.gov.uk or telephone 0345 6789067 and select option 3.