MORE than 160 complaints have been made to BCP Council about coronavirus issues.

Inadequate social distancing, lack of face coverings and absence of PPE are among the issues brought to the attention of the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole council.

Now, as cases rises across the UK, the council has reiterated safety guidance to businesses.

And it has urged the public to report those who are not behaving responsibly.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: "Our economic development team and environmental health services have been assisting businesses throughout the BCP area and offering advice to help them adhere to Government guidance on covid-19.

"This has included visits from our officers as part of a business support and outreach program to signpost them to government guidelines and ensure they re-open and operate safely and successfully."

Between August 1 and September 7, environmental health officers responded to 163 complaints.

These were in a range of business settings and covered issues including lack of PPE, lack of face coverings, inadequate social distancing and absence of Test and Trace systems. The environmental health team aims to work with businesses to ensure improvements where these are needed, but also has an enforcement role.

Many of the complaints referred to hairdressers and barbers.

Now the council has pointed business owners in the direction of advice and information.

It can be found at bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID19/Employers-Employees-and-Businesses/Government-guidance.aspx.

The council has also reminded businesses that there is a legal requirement to undertake a COVID19 Health & Safety risk assessment. More details can be found at hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/working-safely/risk-assessment.htm.

Anyone with concerns about safety measures at businesses in the area is asked to call 01202 795000.

The advice comes as several schools and businesses in the area have reported positive coronavirus tests.

They include the Moon in the Square pub in Bournemouth Square, The Gryphon School in Sherborne, St Mark's Primary in Swanage and Merley First School.