The Covid-19 Omicron Plan B has been enacted in response to the virus to try to slow infection and assist the NHS.
In order to prevent virus spread and protect people, face coverings are now mandatory in certain settings and will continue to be in transport hubs and public transport, including in taxis and private hire vehicles.
Plan B also means the following must be adhered to:
- Face coverings are required by law in most indoor settings.
- Office workers who can work from home should do so (started 13 December)
- Certain venues and events will be required by law to check that all visitors aged 18 years or over are fully vaccinated, have proof of a negative test in the last 48 hours, or have an exemption. (started 15 December)
The guidance released, outlining measures to assess and address the risks of coronavirus, is intended to help transport organisations in England understand how to provide safer workplaces and services for themselves, their workers and passengers. The guidance should be read in conjunction with existing current guidelines on staying safe and preventing virus spread.
The guidance and the safer travel for passenger guidance should be followed by employers, workers and passengers even if they have received a vaccine, as it could still be possible to spread COVID-19 to others.
Each organisation will need to translate the principles and examples in this guidance into specific actions. Transport providers should remain mindful of their obligations under health and safety, equalities and employment legislation. Transport providers should try to coordinate their planning and actions with other providers.
Further information:
Further information for other UK nations: Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.