Payroll bureaux can bring employees back ‘if they’re COVID-secure’

“Instead of the government telling people to work from home, we’re going to give employers more discretion and ask them to make decisions about how their staff can work safely.” – Boris Johnson

Following a recent press conference with the Prime Minister, there seems to have been a huge shift regarding home working.

From August 1, workplace safety guidance is due to change, providing employers with a much greater say on whether they want to bring employees back or continue working remotely.

During the press conference, Mr Johnson stated that it would be ‘safe to go back’, providing workplaces are compliant with the new COVID-secure rules.

“This could mean of course continuing to work from home, which has worked for many employers and employees, or it could mean making workplaces safe by following COVID-secure guidelines,” says Mr Johnson.

What are the new workplace guidelines bureaux must abide by?

It’s been stressed that all employers looking to reopen their offices must adhere to the new health & safety regulations if they’re intending on resuming work within their office.

Below we’ve identified the essential changes payroll bureaux must consider when looking to reopen their office:

• Risk assessment paperwork
• Permanent desk spaces
• Staggering shift hours and potentially introducing rotas
• Continuing virtual meetings
• Staff access: lifts, staircases and one-way systems

Looking for further support to make your workplace COVID-secure?

In our recent guide, we cover all the above points in more detail, ensuring you have the necessary resources to comply with the Government’s rules regarding health & safety.

The guide also looks into the legal ramifications of COVID-secure compliance as well as exploring what solutions are available to help tackle the challenges payroll bureaux face.

Download the guide here to ensure your workplace meets the various instructions the Government has laid out.

Additionally, if you’re looking for more support during the COVID-19 pandemic, check out our support hub that features all the latest news and resources.

Stephanie Coward

Managing Director, HCM

Stephanie Coward is Managing Director for HCM at IRIS, where she leads the strategy, innovation and growth of the organisation’s HR and payroll portfolio. She is responsible for positioning IRIS as a trusted partner to HR professionals and ensuring its solutions support the evolving needs of modern workforces.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the technology sector, Stephanie brings deep commercial and operational expertise, with a passion for improving the employee experience through technology.

Stephanie is committed to advancing IRIS’ HCM offering and helping organisations build more resilient, empowered workforces.