No matter which sector of the economy you work in, getting back to work after a global pandemic can be challenging and overwhelming. There are certain safety measures that should be taken to ensure the health and wellbeing of both employers and employees.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, no one should feel obligated to return to their job until they feel comfortable doing so. Employers must provide a safe environment for their workers and communicate any safety protocols that need to be put into place before anyone can return to work.
Suddenly remote work has become the norm instead of being a perk. Employers should take this time to review their remote working policies and make sure they are up-to-date and effective. It is important to ensure that all employees have access to the necessary tools and resources for them to be able to effectively do their job from home.
In this article, we will provide some general guidance on safe ways to get the world back to work during a pandemic:
1. Isolation
This is the first and probably the most important step to be taken before anyone can return to work. Employees should be isolated from other workers until they are at least two weeks symptom-free. The company should also be sure to provide the necessary testing and contact tracing resources. An infected employee could quickly spread the virus to other workers, so it is important to be proactive.
2. Social distancing
Social distancing should be practiced by both employers and employees at all times while in the workplace. This means keeping six feet apart from one another and limiting contact as much as possible. Employers should also provide PPE such as masks and gloves to protect employees while they are at work.
3. Sanitization
One of the most important steps any employer can take is setting up a comprehensive sanitation plan. This should include a regular schedule for cleaning and disinfecting all common areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and lobbies. Employers should also provide hand sanitizer and wipes for employees to use throughout the day.
4. Co-working Spaces
If a business is unable to offer remote work and must have employees in the workplace, then they should consider implementing co-working spaces. Split up tables into individual cubicles or set up separate offices that are only used by one person at a time. This will help maintain social distancing while still allowing multiple people to work together in the same space.
5. Staggered Work Hours
To further minimize contact between employees, employers should consider implementing staggered work hours. This means that different departments or groups of workers can come in at different times throughout the day. This will reduce overcrowding and allow for better social distancing practices.
Conclusion
Getting back to work after a pandemic can be challenging, but there are certain safety protocols that employers and employees should adhere to. The most important thing is to create an environment where everyone feels safe and comfortable while they are working.
Employers should make sure they are taking the necessary steps to protect their workers and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to be successful. With the right measures in place, employers and employees can work together to create a safe and healthy workplace environment.
Also read: Five Tips for Effective Engagement of Remote Employees
