Living with Respiratory Communicable Diseases at Work (including Covid)

Updated 5 April 2023 by Saba Alai

This page is about respiratory diseases, such as coronavirus, that can be transferred easily when working at Physics premises or elsewhere on behalf of the Department.

People in the Department of Physics are continuing to catch infections, feel very unwell, and lose weeks of work because of communicable respiratory illnesses such as severe colds, influenza and Covid-19.

Quick access:

Do you have symptoms of an infectious illness?

Policy

The Department and University policy is to stay away if you have symptoms of respiratory illnesses and could be infectious. The University encourages people to get vaccinated, and to follow NHS advice.

If you feel well enough to work, please discuss arrangements with your manager/supervisor and work at home. If you must come in and have residual symptoms, wear a mask to protect others and ensure there is good ventilation in your shared work area.

Do you have symptoms of an infectious respiratory illness?

If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, protect other people by keeping away from them. You may come into contact with people with enhanced vulnerability to infection, so it makes sense to check for coronavirus if you have to get close to others. If you have any symptoms (cough, sneezing, fever, scratchy throat, change in sense of smell or taste etc), follow the NHS guide on Living Safely with Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19.

Enhanced Vulnerability or Concerns about being in the Department

STAFF AND REGISTERED VISITORS: If you are at increased risk of respiratory illnesses, you will need to complete an Occupational Health form OHF02 Risk Assessment for vulnerable individuals - discuss this with your manager and HR (or your host if you are a registered visitor). If you are concerned about being in the Department, in the first instance, please talk with your line manager, supervisor or host. You can also talk to: