The need for clarity follows regular questioning from installers, after the government recently extended testing to: “workers delivering essential services in the utilities sector”.
Stewart Clements, director at the HHIC said: “The HHIC is pleased that government has recognised that the heating and plumbing industry carry out essential frontline work to maintain the supply of heating and hot water to UK homes, schools, hospitals and businesses. Its operation is essential to ensure people are kept safe in their homes and businesses.
“Following announcements that COVID-19 testing capacity in England has been extended to all key workers and their households with symptoms, the Department for Business, Energy and industrial Strategy (BEIS) has confirmed that workers delivering essential services in the utilities sector, which encompasses heat, are now eligible for testing.”
He added: “The current COVID-19 crisis is an ever changing, and ever moving situation which requires daily review and communication, so that we are in the best position to keep our members informed.”
For more information, and the option to self-refer for a test