Isolation Exemption changes for pharmacy teams
31st August 2021
The SG Policy Framework details the clinical safeguards required for close contacts of people with a positive COVID test to be able to return to work. The framework provides a checklist which employers can use with employees to provide clarity on self-isolation and COVID testing requirements for the person to return to work
Following a close contact notification, pharmacy team members:
Are not required to self-isolate if they:
- are double vaccinated at least 14 days prior to exposure (vaccination date is ‘day 1’)
- had a negative PCR test, after exposure;
- are not currently self-isolating;
- have no COVID-19 symptoms
Are required to self-isolate for 10 days:
- if they have a positive PCR test result
- have declined to take a PCR test
- if they develop COVID symptoms after returning to work and they should take a PCR test
- if they have a positive LFD test and they should take a PCR test
Are required to self-test with lateral flow tests for 10 days
- if they have a negative PCR test and return to work. Staff declining LFD testing should not work in patient facing roles.
The employee’s line manager must:
- facilitate the access to LFD test kits
- risk assess ensuring that the member of staff is not returning to a high risk clinical setting
Further reading:
Please contact the Pharmacy Services team for further advice and support: