March 4, 2020

COVID-19 Concerns? What to do about Returning Travellers

If a colleague has returned from a specific area listed by the Government that requires 14 days self isolation, regardless of symptoms, they should follow the Government’s advice and in the UK use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do next, or in Ireland call 112. They should not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.

If a colleague has returned from a specific area listed by the Government and they have symptoms of a cough, high temperature or shortness of breath (even if those symptoms are mild), they should follow the Government’s advice and in the UK use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do next, or in Ireland call 112. They should not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.

If the employee has visited one of these areas on your behalf, you bear some responsibility for the position in which they now find themselves. The best option is to explore opportunities to work from home. If this isn’t possible, consider paid sickness absence or even, subject to specialist advice, paid medical suspension.

Need more help with returning travellers? Moorepay customers can contact our 24/7 Advice Line.

**Information in this blog was correct at the time of writing, however with government and legislation changes happening daily some of this may now be out of date.**

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About the author

Philip Barker

About the author

Philip Barker

Philip has worked for Moorepay for over nine years, starting as a Health & Safety Consultant in February 2008 before taking up the position of Consultancy Manager in January 2015. Coming from a retail background, both as a store manager and health & safety professional, he already had a good cross industry experience. Working at Moorepay has provided an opportunity to broaden both knowledge and experience across a wide range of industry sectors. Philip started his health & safety career after a number of years managing retail stores and holds a HNC in Environmental Health Studies, a Diploma in Environmental Policy and a NEBOSH Diploma.