BOXT has announced a COVID-19 SOS service to ensure the elderly and vulnerable are protected in the event of necessary boiler installations during the proposed extended isolation period. 

In a bid to reduce the risk of infection, the company is also rolling out enhanced safety measures to ensure person-to-person contact is kept to an absolute minimum for those who are most susceptible, as well as the wider public.

This will include:

• A dedicated 24/7 telephone number for the over 70s and ‘at-risk’ (0800 304 7640) who would like the security of talking directly to customer service to make their booking
• Priority booking for the over 70s and ‘at-risk’ calling the dedicated number - these customers will benefit from delivery and installation of a new boiler the next working day if ordered before 3pm
• Single visit installation for the over 70s and ‘at-risk’, with solo engineer to perform the install where possible
• Pre-visit phone call and support to help advise on how the installation will be carried out - discussing what level of distancing or isolation is appropriate whilst the work is undertaken 
• Engineers have been trained to adhere to World Health Organisation guidelines including personal hygiene, zero physical contact, and person-to-person distancing.

BOXT installers are also carrying out the following actions:

• Thorough cleaning of any surface in the vicinity of their workspace; before and after installation
• A risk assessment with the customer regarding COVID-19 before entering the home
• Installers are being issued with disposable work gloves, heavy duty wipes, refuse sacks, and masks. 
• From Monday 23 March, all customers will receive a call the day before with a questionnaire regarding COVID-19
• Supplies permitting, all engineers will be attending homes with disposable overshoes, coveralls, and more robust facemask
• During this period, installers are unable to accept food and drink on premises.

Because BOXT does not employ salespeople to physically visit your property prior to installation, this means only the engineer will visit your home. The company believes this is extremely beneficial in this current climate as it limits the potential of any spread. Rather than having multiple people walking in and out of your home and making matters worse. 

Andy Kerr, co-founder of BOXT, said: “We have already seen a significant spike in installations in recent weeks as the UK prepares for lockdown. As every Briton over the age of 70 will be told "within the coming weeks" to stay at home for an extended period to protect themselves, we believe it is now essential we offer a service to support those who are most at risk for additional peace of mind. 

“We have also reviewed our existing procedures and will be introducing enhanced safety measures including supplying engineers with face masks and disposable gloves to ensure everyone can feel secure during these uncertain times.”