Coronavirus (COVID-19)

How to protect yourself and others

Coronavirus restrictions remain in place across the country. In England:

  • Only socialise indoors with people you live with or who are in your support bubble
  • Up to 6 people or 2 households can meet outside
  • Work from home if you can and only travel when necessary

Get the latest government advice on social distancing, self-isolating and protecting the most vulnerable at GOV.UK. 

Do not leave home if you or someone you live with has any of the following symptoms:

  • a high temperature
  • a new, continuous cough
  • a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste

You must self-isolate immediately and get a coronavirus test.

While waiting for your test result you and your household should follow the stay at home guidance.

British Sign Language (BSL)

Public Health England approved information is regularly updated on SignHealth. 

How to avoid spreading the infection

Hand washing with soap and water

Watch this video on how to correctly wash your hands.

Remove jewellery like watches and bracelets:

  • Step 1: wet your hands and apply enough liquid soap - 1 to 2 applications - to create a good lather
  • Step 2: rub palms together
  • Step 3: rub the back of hands
  • Step 4: Interlink Your Fingers
  • Step 5: cup your fingers
  • Step 6: clean the thumbs
  • Step 7: rub palms with your fingers
  • Step 8: grip and rub the wrists
  • Step 9: rinse soap off thoroughly
  • Step 10: dry hands and wrists with paper towels and dispose into the bin - use foot pedal

Using alcohol hand gel/rub

Should contain at least 60% alcohol and be compliant with EN14476

Remove jewellery like watches and bracelets

This guidance is only for visibly clean hands

Step 1: apply enough product to your hands (1 to 2 applications).
Step 2: rub palms together
Step 3: rub the back of hands
Step 4: interlink your fingers
Step 5: cup your fingers
Step 6: clean the thumbs
Step 7: rub palms with your fingers
Step 8: grip and rub the wrists

Avoiding skin irritation from PPE

  • Keep yourself well hydrated and keep your skin clean
  • Consider use of moisturisers, to be applied 30 minutes before PPE
  • Consider use of barrier cream
  • Ensure PPE is well fitted and creases are minimised
  • Regularly inspect your skin for signs of soreness
  • Try and have breaks from wearing a mask every 2 hours to reduce
  • moisture build up and facilitate skin recovery
  • Try an alternative mask if available
  • Talk to your manager or a health professional if you experience problems