A new app developed by global travel and operational risk company, Anvil Group, prompts employees to self-certify that they are free of COVID-19 symptoms before coming into work, enabling employers to reduce the potential for infection in the workplace. 

Available on iOS and Android devices, the app takes employees through a series of simple questions relating to the main COVID-19 symptoms recognised by the UK National Health Service, and delivers an initial diagnosis based on the answers submitted. The app lets employees know whether they are deemed safe to enter their workplace or should stay at home and await further instructions. Employees’ self-certification results are immediately sent to their employer, enabling employers to remain compliant with health and safety legislation and identify any potential cases early.  

The app has been designed to help businesses, particularly those with at least 50 employees and limited HR or health and safety resources, who may be struggling to cope with managing the increased measures introduced, to ensure workforce safety.  

Matthew Judge, Group MD at Anvil Group, said: “By developing the Fit to Work app, we’re providing a solution that will help organisations to navigate a return to the workplace safely and with confidence.

“Employers need to take sensible steps to fulfil their duty of care and to document their assessment and adopted policies. Being able to demonstrate that they have considered the risks carefully and have taken sensible steps to mitigate those risks will be crucial evidence in defence of any subsequent claims. If someone becomes infected at work in the absence of evidence of such steps having been taken, the employer is vulnerable to being found in breach of duty and liable for losses arising.”  

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has updated its guidance regarding reporting cases of COVID-19 under the Reporting of Injuries, Disease and Dangerous Occurrence Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR). Anvil’s Fit to Work app helps organisations to demonstrate that they have implemented a ‘safe system of work’ to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19.  

Alongside the Fit to Work app, Anvil Group has also introduced a range of other COVID-19 support services including client, industry and country specific information; daily reports and medical fact sheets; educational webinars; additional occupational health services; and antibody testing. 

Organisations wanting further information on the Fit to Work app should contact Anvil Group directlyhere.