Coronaviruses are a common family of viruses, and one of the main causes of the common cold. In late December 2019, a new coronavirus was identified in China with the potential o cause severe respiratory illness. The disease caused as a result of infection by the new coronavirus has been named COVID-19. During 2020, the virus has spread throughout the world (including to the UK) and many people have developed COVID-19.
This note sets out the key health and safety obligations on employers that are relevant to the spread of the virus, and suggests practical steps that may be taken to mitigate the risks of liability.