Stricter rules to be put in place in supermarkets

Stricter rules are set to be put in place in supermarkets across Wales, including limits on the number of customers in store.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said Welsh Government ministers had met with retailers this week to “discuss their vital role during the pandemic”.

It comes following the discovery of new, more contagious strains of coronavirus in recent weeks, including one in Brazil.

As well as limits on the number of customers in store, shops will also be required by law to provide hand sanitiser and put social distancing signs up.

It comes as new Welsh Government legislation, set to come into force next week, puts current guidance into law.

Mr Drakeford said: “We will strengthen regulations to ensure retailers take these steps so that their premises are as safe as possible for shoppers and their employees alike.

“Many are already operating high standards and we need to raise the bar for those who could and should improve.”

He added: “However, we all have a personal responsibility to help make shops as safe as possible.

“We all need to shop alone if we can, observe the two-metre rule, practise good hand hygiene and wear a face covering unless exempt.

“Any abuse directed at store employees who remind people of their responsibilities will not be tolerated.”

Nick Ireland, from the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw), welcomed the legislation and said: “Retail staff are working with the public every day and not only suffer increased abuse, but are deeply worried about catching Covid-19.

“We are very concerned by reports from our members that too many customers are abusing shopworkers and not following necessary safety measures, like social distancing, wearing a face covering and shopping alone where possible for essential items only.

“Usdaw is urging the shopping public to strictly follow the rules and respect shopworkers. Supermarket staff have worked throughout the pandemic to keep the country supplied with essentials. These key workers must be valued, respected and protected.”

What is the new legislation?

The new legislation will require all businesses employing five or more people to carry out coronavirus risk assessments and implement measures to protect workers and the public.

This means taking into account issues such as hygiene, ventilation, social distancing and the use of PPE, such as face masks.

The First Minister said: “Risk assessments must be reviewed and updated regularly, whenever circumstances change and I want to make clear in law this includes whenever the coronavirus Alert levels change in Wales.  

“We are working closely with employers, trade unions, local authorities and the Health and Safety Executive to consider the detail on how to keep work settings safe.”