Businesses across the Lancaster district are being spot-checked to make sure they have Covid-19 safety measures in place to help prevent the spread of the virus.
And the public is also being asked to do their bit to support businesses by observing any measures they may have in place, such wearing face coverings.
Visits by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will check that business premises and working practices are Covid compliant to help tackle infection rates.
Businesses should already have carried out a risk assessment to pinpoint measures, such as regularly cleaning surfaces to improving air flow and ensuring staff who are unwell do not attend the workplace.
Lancaster City Council is working alongside the HSE and immediate action will be taken in the event that a business does not have the proper controls in place. This can range from the provision of specific advice, the issuing of enforcement notices, and stopping certain work practices until they are made safe.
Councillor Dave Brookes, cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “Although coronavirus restrictions have largely been removed, the legal duty for businesses to follow the advice to stop the spread of Covid-19 remains.
“Our public protection team is talking to local businesses and visiting and inspecting sites across the Lancaster district to understand how they are managing risks in line with their specific business activity.
“Managing the risk of spreading coronavirus in the workplace needs to be the priority for all businesses. They have a legal duty to protect staff and customers from harm and this includes taking reasonable steps to control the risk and protect people from coronavirus.
“This message also stretches to us all as individuals. We need to work together as a community and help businesses by observing any measures they may have in place, such as wearing a face covering.”
Examples of ways that businesses can mitigate against the spread of Covid-19 include regularly cleaning surfaces which people touch frequently, identifying poorly ventilated areas and improving airflow, ensuring that staff and customers do not attend the business if they feel unwell, and communicating what measures are in place.
More information and guidance can be found at www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19.
Friends from Morecambe to take on Ultra Marathon for brave toddler
Firefighters and swim centre team give key water safety message on Morecambe school visit
Police probe after stolen motorbike being ridden dangerously found in Morecambe
Man arrested in Lancaster after bridge jump hoax call
Local hospice wins national award for Will donation campaign
Cash boost for babies and families at Royal Lancaster Infirmary after fundraising at local golf club
Morecambe’s Pride in Place Board give update on West End investment programme
Children's play area in Lancaster opens after £118k revamp
Illegal tobacco and counterfeit clothing seized during raid on Lancaster city centre shop
Lancaster bowling green fundraiser hits target
Six food businesses in Lancaster district fail allergen tests
LISTEN: Stars of Morecambe and Wise stage show can't wait for Eric's 100th birthday
LISTEN: Thousands enjoy Wray Fair finale to annual scarecrow festival
PHOTOS and VIDEO: Incredible sand art on Morecambe beach honours Sir David Attenborough
Row over Morecambe FC debt as ex-directors' firm issues winding-up petition against club
Morecambe Pride handed £3,500 grant boost
North West awards delight for talented stars of Lancaster musicals
Music festival set for Lancaster over Bank Holiday postponed due to ‘ongoing planning’
Lancashire Police Museum in Lancaster celebrates fourth anniversary
Police investigate alleged sexual exploitation at Lancaster flat
