While influenza is primarily a public health concern, employers have clear health and safety obligations under UK law. This includes compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), as amended, which requires organisations to ensure safe working conditions and minimise transmission risks in the workplace.
Practical Steps for Employers
To protect workforce health and maintain business continuity, employers should consider the following measures:
1. Keep Symptomatic Staff at Home
Employees who develop flu symptoms during working hours should be sent home immediately. Allowing symptomatic individuals to remain on site significantly increases the risk of wider workplace transmission. This principle extends to educational and training environments, where unwell attendees displaying symptoms such as persistent coughing or sneezing should similarly be asked to leave.
2. Facilitate Remote Working Arrangements
Where operationally feasible, identify roles that can be performed remotely and provide appropriate support for homeworking. Replace face-to-face meetings with video or telephone conferencing to reduce unnecessary physical contact.
3. Plan for Workforce Disruption
Influenza outbreaks can result in significant staff absences. Employers should anticipate potential shortages and prepare accordingly. This may include cross-training staff to cover essential functions and reviewing existing risk assessments to account for reduced staffing levels and modified workflows.
Further Resources and Official Guidance
For additional information and practical documentation, the following resources may prove valuable:
Latest Government Update
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) provides ongoing surveillance and guidance on influenza and respiratory illnesses. For the most current information, visit:
National flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports: 2024 to 2025 season – GOV.UK
Seasonal influenza: guidance, data and analysis – GOV.UK
This guidance is subject to regular updates as the situation develops.
Comprehensive Winter Health Advice
For current, detailed information on protecting against flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses:
Do I have flu, COVID-19 or a cold? Know the signs and symptoms – UK Health Security Agency Blog