FIRMS are being urged not to “drop their guard” on safety as more people return to work today.

More workplaces, including shops, hairdressers, gyms, swimming pools, pub gardens and outdoor restaurant areas, will be allowed to open their doors from today as restrictions ease.

But unions have warned that the reopening should not come at the expense of Covid-secure workplaces.

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “As we reopen the economy, we must not drop our guard on workplace safety. 

“If workplaces aren’t Covid-secure, coronavirus cases could spiral out of control again.

“Ministers must tell the Health and Safety Executive to crack down on bad bosses who play fast and loose with workers’ safety. 

“It’s a national scandal that not a single employer has been prosecuted and fined for putting workers or the public at risk.

“Vaccinations can’t be a substitute for comprehensive health and safety measures to make workplaces safe.”