The spread of COVID-19 is changing the way organizations operate across the country. For businesses not able to work remotely, employers are focusing on how they can address returning back to work while also following the right safety measures.
For now, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has focused on regulating when employees are allowed to return to work after being exposed to COVID-19. But as we continue to flatten the curve, the focus will soon shift to: how will the U.S. transition from a nationwide quarantine to a “normal” work routine? More importantly, how will organizations establish new programs that fit into this new way of life?
We put together some strategic considerations and compliance requirements that experts believe employers should start preparing for in the near future—and how we can help you get started today.
HR communication. Over 80% of employees report wishing that their employer would take greater action to address outbreak-related challenges. Now that employees want to know about new work-from-home policies, efforts to keep workplaces safe, and how the business is faring during this time, communication will become more important than ever before. HR departments and professionals can keep up with this by responding frequently and proactively while arming workforces with the proper tools to ensure that everyone is heard and updated.
Rethinking workspaces. It’s tough to drill into employees’ heads that they need to be six feet away from one another and then return to an office with an open floor plan. OSHA has also advised employers to conduct a risk assessment of existing worksites and consider changes that would reduce future exposure. In order to comply with this, employers may have to consider innovative spaces, flexible hours, and more remote work before gradually transitioning from social distancing.
Technological alternatives. It typically takes six to 12 weeks for a smooth transition from on-site to remote work. But in the midst of COVID-19, business owners had to immediately shift from the mindset of, “is this possible?” to, “how can we make this sustainable?” With more than 85% of employees worried that public health circumstances will impact their jobs and ability to work, it’s time for employers to quickly adapt to digital technologies that allow seamless collaboration from a distance.
Health and safety training. Organizations such as the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are currently providing the latest information on general health and safety precautions regarding COVID-19. But before returning back to normal, businesses will be required to review their own employment policies and make necessary modifications or additions. Since employers will be required to provide their own hygiene guidance, proper cleaning procedures, and even online safety training courses, they should take proactive steps now to make sure they have the tools, technology, and personnel in place.
Now that you know the importance of establishing an effective compliance program, how can you take the proper steps to promote HR communication, team collaboration, and health and safety training as you prepare your return-to-work policy?
moving your company forward.
For many businesses, the need to adapt to a post-COVID-19 world isn’t a matter of if—it’s a matter of when. And we believe the best way to be prepared is to proactively look out for your employees, your business, and your future.
At clevermethod, we focus on providing custom digital solutions that move our partners forward. Now, we’re focusing on how we can utilize our expertise to prioritize the well-being of our employees and our clients.
Whether you’re looking for a program that promotes sharing, communicating, collaborating, or training, we’d love to discuss how we can build a unique tool that allows your business to function more effectively, more efficiently, and most of all, more safely. Some options to consider include:
1. An online employee portal for sharing content, staying connected, and receiving the latest company updates and information.
2. A channel for issuing the proper health and safety certifications that may soon become mandatory upon return to “normalcy.”
3. Online employee training courses for new hires, new processes, and new mandates.
4. Programs that enable HR departments to effectively communicate during (and after) social distancing.
Contact us to learn how we can help you get ahead of the curve in following safety standards, meeting compliance requirements, and setting your post-COVID-19 business up for success.