New facility launches for Stockport businesses to report and seek guidance on Covid-19 outbreaks

Stockport Council has launched a new facility for businesses in the borough to report Covid-19 outbreaks, and access information on how to control the spread of the virus in the workplace.

An outbreak is defined as two or more cases of Covid-19, with illness onset dates within 14 days, associated with a specific non-residential setting, such as a workplace or hospitality venue where there has been direct exposure between cases, or an absence of an alternative source of infection.

Businesses in the borough can now use a new online form to report outbreaks directly to Stockport Council to access further support to curb the virus’ spread. The form will collect the following information:

• the date of the first coronavirus symptom
• if the coronavirus outbreak is confirmed or suspected
• the number of people who have confirmed or suspected coronavirus
• the date of the first coronavirus test (if the outbreak is confirmed)
• if anyone has been admitted to hospital
• details about the hospital where they have been admitted
• your contact details

Affected individuals will also be contacted by the Test and Trace service to identify other people potentially exposed to the virus.

Stockport Council has also updated its guidance for employees, employers and businesses in the borough for helping to combat the spread of Covid-19 in the community. The Council website provides links to salient information produced by the UK government as to how to reopen workplaces safely. The guidance covers the following areas:

• who should go back to work
• social distancing
• personal protective equipment (PPE)
• managing your workforce
• cleaning
• managing contractors and visitors
• inbound and outbound goods