The Health and Safety Executive has updated its guidance on disinfecting premises during the coronavirus pandemic to include joint advice on risks to health that can be created by using walk-through spraying or misting systems.

Spraying people with disinfectants is not recommended under any circumstances (including in a tunnel, cabinet or chamber). It could be harmful and does not reduce the spread of the virus.

The organisation's advice on cleaning premises using fog, mist or UV treatment, and clarity around the the law on disinfectants can be found here.

Separately, the HSE has stressed the requirement for employers to ensure an adequate supply of fresh air in the workplace. Its updated guidance will help employers in most workplaces identify poorly ventilated areas and provides advice on improving ventilation while maintaining a comfortable temperature.

Protecting home workers is another area of concern for the HSE. Advice for employers on lone working without supervision, display screen equipment and stress can be found here.

In other COVID-related developments, the Prime Minister has announced that it will not be possible to resume face-to-face learning for the majority of pupils and students until 8th March at the earliest.

UK cases, testing, vaccinations

20,634 new people had a confirmed positive test result (as at 4th February 2021). Between 29th January and 4th February, 148,725 people had a confirmed positive test result -- a decrease of 25.7% on the previous 7 days.

There were 801,949 tests reported on 3rd February -- an increase of 9.2% on the previous 7 days. Between 28th January and 3rd February, there were 4,480,259 tests.

People over the age of 16 and living in postcodes CR4, EN10, GU21, ME15, N17, PR9, W7 and WS2 are strongly encouraged to get a test.

Vaccines are currently given in 2 doses, at least 21 days apart. 10,490,487 people had been given a first dose by the end of 3rd February. 501,957 people had been given a second dose by the end of 3rd February.

Image courtesy: Water Direct

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