skip to main content

Advice for Members on Covid-19 Testing Requests

Our advice to members who are asked to participate in Covid-19 testing, in order to attend recording session engagements.

Published: 04 November 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph close up to a microphone set up in a recording studio.
A test cannot guarantee the associated engagement will be Covid-free. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Whilst the pandemic continues members may be asked to take a Covid-19 test and/or complete a health questionnaire prior to undertaking an engagement.

Please bear in mind the following points:

  • There is nothing in law preventing an engager from making such requests as part of a contract.
  • Whilst a test can demonstrate additional risk mitigation, it cannot guarantee the associated engagement will be Covid-free, unless every participant is tested and remains in isolation between that time and the engagement.
  • The NHS, or Private testing company may need to ask for pertinent health information (“special category data”) in order to carry out a Covid-19 test. However, any request from a Production Company must adhere to relevant employment, equalities and data protection law and seek Explicit Consent as detailed in GDPR Article 9(2)(a) in order to ask those questions about your health.
  • Ensure you obtain clear information if being asked to take a test. You should be given all necessary assurances and details of how your data will be managed.
  • Members should not otherwise be asked to divulge any information regarding the 9 Protected Characteristics defined in the Equalities Act 2010, which are – age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership (in employment only), pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.
  • Most companies have a budgetary allowance to assist in helping fulfil their requests for testing. The MU would expect anyone being asked to take a test to benefit from assistance towards any out of pocket expenses / travel etc. AND any travel whilst Covid-19 pandemic continues should be via a safe method of travel. Avoid public transport where possible.

You may also find these resources useful:

If you have any concerns regarding a test you have been asked to undergo or a health questionnaire you’ve been asked to complete, please contact us for further advice and assistance.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

John Shortell wearing a Musicians' Union t-shirt with rainbow logo, holding a flag, during a Pride march in 2023. He is joined by colleagues and other members who are performing as they walk.

MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List

The MU congratulates John Shortell, Head of ED&I, on being named one of IQ Magazine’s outstanding queer professionals in the international live music business. John is a driving force for change, and the Union is exceptionally proud to have him working on behalf of musicians.

Published: 03 July 2025

Read more about MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List
An empty conference stage, lit up multi coloured blocks.

Join the MU at the We Make Music Scotland Conference 2025

The MU will be attending and sponsoring a workshop at this year’s We Make Music Scotland Conference, taking place on Thursday 4 and Friday 5 September at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow.

Published: 02 July 2025

Read more about Join the MU at the We Make Music Scotland Conference 2025
Wooden blocks with speech bubble graphics on them against a blue background, a single block with a red stop sign is in front of them, blocking the line, representing free speech restrictions.

MU Reiterates Anti-Censorship Stance

The MU reiterates its anti-censorship position and support for the organisation ‘Freemuse’, following the issues around the broadcasting of Glastonbury sets this weekend.

Published: 01 July 2025

Read more about MU Reiterates Anti-Censorship Stance