Belgium: commerce sector social partners approve a plan setting the conditions for the safe resumption of business

Belgium’s non-food stores will be able to reopen from 11 May. As such, on 30 April the social partners signed a declaration and approved the Phoenix Plan, which details specific measures to be taken in order to guarantee the safety of employees and customers over the weeks ahead. This plan complements the broad guidance agreement drawn up and signed by the federal authorities together with the social partners on 22 April (c.f. article No. 11876). The document underlines that re-opening decisions are down to employers that are in turn responsible for the health and safety of their workers. Employers thus must implement the measures necessary for a safe working environment. As is already the case in shops selling food, this includes the provision of adequate hygiene and protective equipment, the cleaning of the premises and equipment, and effective communication between employees, customers and suppliers. Physical distancing is recommended, which may involve restricting the number of employees on the premises (e.g. by continuing administrative functions via teleworking arrangements). Recommendations as regards customers include allowing 10m² area per single customer and 30 minutes shopping time also per customer. In addition, shopping should be conducted alone as much as possible. Electronic payment is to be encouraged. The plan also emphasizes, “social consultation plays a crucial role. The Committee for Prevention and Protection at Work, or failing that the trade union delegation, or else the staff, must be involved before business re-openings to ensure proper implementation of the measures imposed by the government and included in the Phoenix plan’s additional note. The Committee for Prevention and Protection at Work will be involved in the implementation of any additional measures tailored to the needs of each company’s individual circumstances. The committee can also call on any available expertise from the workplace prevention and protection advisor. Consultations must take place as soon as possible.’