Keep using PPE, officers told

17 November 2020

Humberside Police Federation chair Pete Musgrave has urged officers to continue playing their part in preventing the spread of coronavirus by using personal protective equipment (PPE).

Figures gathered by the Press Association for 24 forces across the four nations of the UK show 849 officers have tested positive for Covid-19 during the pandemic.

Pete said the figure would be higher but for officers using PPE such as masks and hand sanitisers.

“As a Federation, in the early stages of the pandemic, we campaigned for PPE to be provided to officers and staff and the Force has been very good throughout, ensuring there has been adequate supplies for everyone,” says Pete.

“I believe the provision of PPE and the  responsible actions of our colleagues in using it has helped to limit the number of officers contracting coronavirus.”

“But I would still urge officers to continue to play their part in preventing the spread. We can’t be complacent because the virus hasn’t gone away.

“We all need to do our bit, maintain the social distancing regulations and wear our PPE where it’s practical to do so, to protect ourselves, our loved ones and the public.”

Members are asked to wear masks, particularly when social distancing is not an option, to wash hands and wipe down equipment before and after use.

Officers are also encouraged to download the test and trace app to their personal phones to carry on duty and familiarise themselves with the PPE guidance leaflet.

The leaflet contains practical advice around stop and search procedures, handling contact with the public, and the PPE measures needed in many routine situations.

National Federation chair John Apter has also warned that policing the pandemic is taking its toll on the mental health and wellbeing of officers.

“They continue to work 12-hour shifts and have rest days cancelled to help protect the public at this difficult time,” he said, “There is also the constant worry of taking the virus home to their loved ones which is exacerbated when they deal with offenders who weaponise the virus by spitting, biting and coughing – which is disgusting and unacceptable.”

Spit and cough attacks by offenders who claim to have Covid-19 increased by 74 per cent in the first lockdown period.

“This shows the sorts of individuals we have to deal with. People need to realise behind the uniform, officers are mothers, fathers, sons and daughters,” John explained.

“So, we will continue to lobby the Government and the Sentencing Council to ensure harsher sentences are handed down to those who attack emergency workers.”