The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) has issued advice for tradespeople who may be confused about what they can and can’t do when it comes to working in people’s homes.

It is in addition to the guidance provided by UK Government to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID and lessen the chance of future litigation in unprecedented times.

There is no national requirement for home improvement to stop during lock lockdowns, however the BiKBBI says advice should be sought from the local authority if there is a lockdown affecting the projects.

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There are restrictions on movement during lockdowns, so BIKBBI suggests tradespeople check with the local authority before travelling.

During work, the BiKBBI says pay “careful consideration” to reduce touch points and movements, wear face masks and stagger trades in the home.

In addition, it says increase ventilation by keeping external doors and windows open and internal doors closed and disinfect surfaces and tools with the site cleaned before, during and after work.

The BIKBBI points out risk assessment are mandatory and should be completed, or at least reviewed for each project, with templates available on the UK Government website.

Although risk assessment are generally only for businesses that employ the services of more than five people, it advises all businesses (regardless of size) complete as assessment for each project.

And the BiKBBI recommends tradespeople use the Track & Trace system at each workspace or generate a free QR Code and occupants and visitors can download the NHS app and check in.

Although symptoms are not always evident with COVID-19, when they are the rule is to stop work.

If tradespeople, contractors, customers or anyone’s household are experiencing symptons,  work should not continue and isolation should commence from that point.

The BiKBBI advises tradespeople confirm all parties are symptom-free before leaving home each day and a call into the customer would be best.

Recently, the institute has made a call to arms for manufacturers, distributors and retailers to unite and help solve the fitter shortage.