Blackwell's Covid-19 Risk Assessment

July 2020

Blackwell's aim to bring the joy of books and reading to as many people as possible whilst minimising the risks associated with COVID-19.

We have thought very carefully about the health and safety of our customers and booksellers and have taken every reasonable measure to ensure that everyone feels safe at all times.

We continue to follow advice from the Government and British Retail Consortium in our planning in conjunction with consultation with employee representatives and feedback from customers.

We continually review to ensure that we remain flexible and responsive to ensure best practice at all times.

Risk Controls

Blackwell's have created a policy and guidance for all shops, and undertaken detailed risk assessments in every location.

Key risk controls have been implemented which can be summarised as follows.

Social Distancing

• Limited numbers of customers in each location which may mean some queues
• Implemented 2 metre social distancing guidelines and training to employees
• Physical screens placed where social distancing is more difficult
• Signage and posters to control social distancing

Keeping Customers and Booksellers Safe

• Asking customers to wash hands or sanitise before they browse and quarantine areas for browsed books and returns
• The temporary suspension of second-hand buyback
• Cash payments are discouraged
• Sanitiser available for customers and employees
• PPE for employees who wish to wear gloves or masks
• Staggered work patterns, including meal and break times
• Shielding of extremely vulnerable colleagues and supporting working from home wherever possible
• Increased cleaning protocols – particularly for high touch areas
• Audit and regular monitoring of policy and implementation of guidelines

Please do check shop opening hours before you visit as they may have changed.

We want to thank our amazing booksellers for their passion, determination and hard work that has enabled us to re-open our shops.

We hope you enjoy your visit.