From 19 July 2021, there is no longer a legal requirement to wear a mask/face covering in indoor settings, however the government is expecting and recommending individuals continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, and where they come into contact with people they don’t usually meet. In particular, where the risk of transmission is likely to be greater.
Businesses and employers must complete a risk assessment, and take reasonable steps to manage risks to the health and safety of their workforce and customers in their workplace or setting, including the risks of COVID-19. Businesses can require or encourage customers, clients or their workers to wear a face covering.
As part of their COVID-19 risk assessment, British Gymnastics encourages clubs and gymnastics providers to consider the use of masks/face coverings in enclosed and crowded spaces, and areas that are poorly ventilated as well as for coach contact activities. You may want to review your risk assessments based on the layout and individual circumstances of your venue, and potentially encourage over 11s not actively participating in a session to wear a mask/face covering. For example, for anyone entering and exiting the building, a volunteer/parent helping out in a session and/or a coach on their break in an enclosed space.
When completing a risk assessment, you would need to consider the reasonable adjustments needed for staff and customers with disabilities.
All businesses should follow the principles set out in the
working safely guidance.
Where businesses require their workers to wear face coverings there are some circumstances where
people may not be able to wear a face covering. Businesses should be mindful and respectful of these.
If your workers (including contractors) or customers choose to wear a face covering, you should support them in using face coverings safely.
Up-to-date information regarding the wearing of face masks can be found at
gov.uk.
