Businesses are being urged to adhere to Covid-19 safety regulations as staff return to work following the Christmas break.

Kim Wilson, the health minister, made the plea after pointing out that 20 per cent of all coronavirus cases last month were spread through workplace transmission.

Speaking at a press conference last night, Ms Wilson claimed that safety standards in the workplace were often “not rigorous enough”.

She added: “As people are returning to the workplace after the holidays, I want to take this opportunity to remind employers that you are responsible for providing your employees with factual information from health officials and assuring that ‘return to work after travel guidance’ is adhered to.”

Referring to recent high rates of transmission in the workplace, Ms Wilson said: “This reveals that workplace standards are often not rigorous enough as employees relax around co-workers.

“Also, some people return to work too early after travel or even when experiencing symptoms. The Government’s position and guidance remains that persons should work remotely when reasonably practicable.

“Diligence is needed as cases continue to rise overseas. Through public health officials, we can help to prepare and educate employees without causing unwarranted concern.

“Likewise, I would like to remind the general public that we must not become complacent and let our guard down. As I have said repeatedly, we must, as a community, follow the public health guidance and measures put in place to stop the spread of the pandemic. We cannot be irresponsible about Covid-19 – a virus that is so easily transmissible.”

Ms Wilson urged residents to continue to follow safety guidelines, and to “avoid the three Cs” – closed spaces, crowded places and close contact settings.

Ms Wilson said: “It goes without saying, that the health and wellbeing of our community is our main priority, and we are working hard to protect you. But we need your help.”