I don’t consider myself an alarmist, but my father and brother’s Boy Scout motto of “Be Prepared” is ringing strongly in my head as we learn more about the global spread of the Coronavirus. As employers, Federal and State laws require organizations to reasonably protect employees from work-related illness and injuries. The nature of the workplace often affects the type and level of response that may be required. Having worked with a number of health care organizations entrusted with the care of patients as well as employees, they often need to implement heightened protections.
As a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) member, I’ve been receiving daily messages regarding employer preparedness to help manage concerns regarding the Coronavirus. As this situation intensifies, you don’t want to be “building and flying the plane” at the same time. You want to be prepared with plans and procedures so you are ready to fly when needed.
Here are some key considerations as a starting point:
- Create (or review if in place) a communicable disease policy and management plan. Identify a primary contact person in your organization who employees can contact if they have questions or concerns.
- Educate employees on workplace safety precautions and how to prevent the spread of the virus. The Center for Disease Control has free information and posters and constantly updates it site with new information: CDC Coronavirus Guide for Employers.
- Consider postponing non-essential travel or implementing appropriate travel restrictions based on the nature of your business and where employees are traveling.
- Respond to employee questions or concerns in a timely and respectful manner. Ensure related policies/practices/actions are non-discriminatory. You may need employment law counsel to help advise you on such matters.
- Ensure leadership is continuously committed to emergency preparedness and business continuity planning…Always “Be Prepared.”