System of controls: infection protection and control
In this section, where something is essential for public health reasons, as advised by Public Health England (PHE), we have said ‘must’. Where there is a legal requirement we have made that clear. This guidance does not create any new legal obligations.
This is the set of essential public health actions you must take. They are grouped into ‘prevention’ and ‘response to any infection’. If you follow the system of controls, you will effectively reduce risks in your setting and create an inherently safer environment.
These additional measures will be reviewed in partnership with health experts to decide whether evidence suggests that these measures can be eased ahead of the summer.
Prevention
Providers (including their staff where applicable) must always:
1. Prevent contact with individuals who are required to self-isolate by ensuring they do not attend your setting.
2. Ensure face coverings are used in recommended circumstances.
3. Ensure everyone is advised to clean their hands thoroughly and more often than usual.
4. Ensure good respiratory hygiene for everyone by promoting the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ approach.
5. Maintain enhanced cleaning, including cleaning frequently touched surfaces often, using standard products such as detergents.
6. Consider how to minimise contact across the site and maintain social distancing wherever possible.
7. Keep occupied spaces well ventilated.
In specific circumstances:
8. Ensure individuals wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary.
9. Promote and engage in asymptomatic testing, where available.
Response to any infection
Providers (including their staff where applicable) must always:
10. Promote and engage with the NHS Test and Trace process.
11. Manage and report confirmed cases of COVID-19 amongst the setting community.
12. Contain any outbreak by following local health protection team advice.