Workplace testing programme expands to offer free rapid home testing
The Government has announced rapid home testing for companies with over 10 employees. You must however register by 12th April to access these fully funded tests. Tests are available for businesses who cannot offer on-site testing.
Over 60,000 businesses across the country have already registered their interest to provide rapid tests to key workers. From 6 April, the workplace testing programme will supply home test kits to companies with over 10 workers where it is not possible to set up testing on-site, due to a lack of space or because companies operate across multiple sites.
Businesses across the country will be eligible to order the home test kits online to distribute to their employees. These self-test kits will be picked up by staff from their employer with clear instructions about how to take the test. Staff will then complete the home test in the normal way, before reporting their results to the NHS using the provided gov.uk address.
The workplace testing programme uses lateral flow tests (LFD) to rapidly detect the virus in 30 minutes. Swift detection of cases means those who test positive can isolate immediately and, in doing so, break chains of transmission and suppress the virus.
The offer of free test kits through this programme is open to businesses in England, but they must register their interest by 12 April deadline in order to qualify.
Register to receive free test kits at https://www.gov.uk/get-workplace-coronavirus-tests
Read the full announcement at https://www.gov.uk/government/news/workplace-testing-programme-expands-to-offer-free-rapid-home-testing
