Conduct a risk assessment

As an organisation providing services you have a responsibility to protect staff, volunteers and clients from harm. This includes taking steps to protect against COVID-19. Before returning to normal service delivery, consider the risks posed to all those involved.

You will need a risk assessment for the venue and facilities where services will be delivered, and people involved such as staff, volunteers, clients and contractors.  The assessment must cover hygiene practices and social distancing measures. We have set out the key steps below. 

Refugee Action's how-to guide on prioritising clients and services will help you to look at what services you provide and how you deliver them.

What to do

Follow a risk assessment template which will help you to:

• Identify hazards - what work activity or situations might cause transmission of the virus?
• Assess the risks - who could be at risk and how likely it is that they could be exposed?
• Control the risks - remove the activity or situation, and if this isn’t possible, minimise the risk.
• Record your findings - ensure your findings are documented and readily available for your staff and volunteers to view.

Share the results of the risk assessment

• Create clear return-to-work procedures - use your risk assessment to develop a safe plan for staff, volunteers and clients. 
• Share with staff, volunteers and clients.
• Consider publishing the results of your risk assessment on your website.

Display a copy of the risk assessment in the workplace

• This is a government requirement and will show you have followed this guidance.

Regularly review and update the controls

• Your risk assessment should be a living document. Set out a timetable for reviewing and identify who is responsible.

Consider individuals who may be more vulnerable

Groups to consider who may be at higher risk:

1. Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals
2. People who are shielding (see: Public Health England, Health Protection Scotland and Public Health Wales)
3. Young persons
4. Destitute individuals
5. Individuals in shared accommodation
6. New or expectant mothers
7. Individuals with disabilities
8. Individuals with health problems
9. Older people

Risks to consider

Mental and emotional risks
For example, moving to face-to-face provision could impact on team wellbeing, such as concerns about catching the virus.

Risks associated with public transport
One of our partner organisations has considered reducing risk for staff and volunteers by paying taxi expenses. Other forms of lower risk transport such as walking, running or cycling could be encouraged, for example with a bike to work scheme or cycle racks.

The national and local COVID-19 situation
You should consider your local  R-rating for your area and any local advice in addition to national government guidance.

Missed safety and maintenance work during COVID-19
You should check:
•  Fire safety and other equipment
•  For Legionella, e.g. the hot and cold water or air conditioning
•  Building maintenance and safety with your landlord
•  Your plans with your insurance company

Set clear procedures for staff, volunteers and clients feeling unwell

This should include guidance on self-isolation and steps that facilitate contact tracing. If the individual is on your premises, consider designating an isolation room. The NHS provides information on recognising the symptoms and what to do.