Covid checks on supermarkets

The environmental health teams from Buckinghamshire Council have been working in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to do spot checks on supermarkets and convenience stores across Buckinghamshire.

So far, they have visited over 100 supermarkets across the county to ensure they are complying with COVID-19 requirements. This follows a request from the Secretary of State that all councils visit the supermarkets in their area.

While some shops were given specific guidance, generally stores were following the guidance well and protecting staff and shoppers. Council teams will continue to work with HSE colleagues in the next few weeks. They will be out and about doing more visits and focussing on smaller premises like convenience stores. They will also make some return visits for additional checks.

Fred Wilson, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for enforcement said: "We want to do everything we can to help our local businesses stay open and their customers to feel safe.

"We are checking that the correct signage is in place and that there are hand sanitising stations and enough space for people to shop safely. It's also important that all the staff in supermarkets and convenience stores are aware of what the Government guidelines are during these difficult times. We know these guidelines can seem restrictive at times but we must all play are part and follow them to help stop the spread of the virus."

The guidelines for essential shopping for your household and/or a vulnerable person are clear:

• Please follow the guidelines and instructions from the supermarkets and their staff (please do not abuse them)
• Shop alone whenever possible
• Use the hand sanitisers at entrances and in store
• Maintain social distancing whilst shopping
• Follow any one-way system in place
• Wear a face covering unless you are medically exempt
• Wash your hands after shopping