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<p>As a Government, we have outlined the risks posed by the COVID-19 virus, and the
control measures required to avoid exposure and transmission. In parallel, we have
been clear that the work of the justice system must continue throughout the prevailing
public health emergency. Accordingly, it has been necessary to keep some courts and
tribunal buildings open, and we are working hard to open more so long as that can
be achieved safely.</p><p>HMCTS is committed to ensuring the health, safety and welfare
of all staff, members of the judiciary and visitors to its sites, as far as it is
reasonably practical whilst they are on the premises.</p><p>In order to aid implementation
of the required control measures, and to monitor and assure ourselves of compliance,
we developed and implemented an assessment tool to be carried out in each of our open
sites.</p><p>The tool was developed in consultation with trade union health and safety
representatives. The finalised tool was issued to each site, with instruction that
it should wherever possible be completed in conjunction and consultation with a Trade
Union representative. I understand that wherever possible our officials did conduct
those assessments with trade union colleagues, and continue to do so as the results
are regularly reviewed.</p><p>We are confident that our open sites are safe, and can
confirm risk assessments will be available to be shared on request very soon.</p>
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