Over the summer of 2021 many of the COVID restrictions introduced last year have been lifted or altered. Below are some of the key points for those running industrial archaeology and industrial heritage sites in England to bear in mind, ahead of this year’s Heritage Open days (10-19 September: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/). Full details can be found on the UK Government’s website here: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Test & Trace No Longer a Requirement
Although no longer a legal requirement in England, businesses are encouraged to display QR codes for visitors to check in using the NHS COVID app, to support Test and Trace.
Live Events
All restrictions on live events have been removed, including restrictions on the number of attendees. There is no requirement for table service, nor restrictions on singing or dancing.
Certification
The NHS COVID Pass on the NHS app demonstrates a person’s Covid-status. The UK Government is planning that, by the end of September when all over-18s have had the chance to be double-jabbed, full vaccination will be the condition of entry to venues where large crowds gather.
Workplaces
The UK Government recommends a gradual return to the workplace over the summer and into autumn. Businesses must not require a self-isolating worker to come to work, and workers and customers who feel unwell must not attend the setting. Businesses will be encouraged to ask staff and visitors to clean their hands regularly and clean surfaces that people touch regularly.
Cafes
In cafes the requirements for table service and distancing between tables have been lifted.
COVID restrictions and requirements are subject to change, so remember to check regularly the relevant sections of the UK Government’s Coronvirus webpages for the most up-to-date advice: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Industrial Heritage Networks 