Preparing Your Workplace for This Year's Viral Threats
Managing COVID-19 and other viruses ...
Posted by Roger Eddowes on 18/09/2023 @ 8:00AM
As the leaves begin to fall and the days grow shorter, businesses across the UK are once again faced with the challenge of navigating the health landscape amidst the looming threat of COVID-19 and the annual flu season ...
Whether it's adopting a flexible work model or implementing stringent health protocols, the key is to be prepared and adaptable!
The recent government announcement regarding the early rollout of the flu and COVID-19 vaccination scheme has understandably raised eyebrows amongst employers. While there's no immediate cause for alarm, the approaching Autumn season presents an opportune moment for businesses to re-evaluate and reinforce their strategies for managing infectious viruses in the workplace.
"What if the new Eris strain of COVID-19 takes hold?"
In this case, if haven't already, it's worth considering the implementation of a COVID-specific policy. Such a policy could require employees to notify you of a positive COVID-19 test and stay at home, with pay, until they test negative. If they do attend the workplace, additional precautions like wearing face masks, maintaining distance, and regular sanitisation should be enforced.
As we transition into Autumn and brace ourselves for the Winter flu season, it's crucial to address the issue of 'presenteeism' which is the act of attending work despite being unwell. This not only poses a risk of spreading illnesses, but can also lead to personal burnout and stress. You should remind all your staff of the importance of prioritising health over attendance.
To minimise the risk of viral transmission, you could adopt a number of measures:
Hygiene First: Emphasise the importance of regular handwashing and maintaining a clean workspace
Ventilation: Ensure that workspaces are well-ventilated to reduce the concentration of viral particles
Social Distancing: Encourage employees to maintain a safe distance from one another
Vaccination: Advocate for employees to get vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu
Hybrid Working: With many businesses now familiar with hybrid working models, it's easier than ever to transition employees to temporary remote work if they're at risk of transmitting an illness
The pandemic has undeniably reshaped the way businesses operate and we all have to embrace this new normal. By taking proactive steps now, you can ensure that your workforce is equipped to handle any health challenges that the coming months might bring.
Whether it's adopting a flexible work model or implementing stringent health protocols, the key is to be prepared and adaptable.
Until next time ...
ROGER EDDOWES Business Godparent
Would you like to know more?
If anything I've written in this blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more about keeping your workplace and your employees safe from COVID-19 and this year's flu virus, it may be a great idea to call me on 01908 774320 and let's see how I can help.
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Roger trained at Edward Thomas Peirson & Sons in Market Harborough before working at Hartwell & Co, followed by Chancery, as a partner. He started Essendon Accounts and Tax with Helen Beaumont in 2014 as a general practitioner with a hands-on approach.
Roger loves getting his hands dirty, working with emerging, small-to-medium and family businesses to ensure they receive the best possible accountancy advice. Roger utilises an extensive network of business contacts to leverage the best guidance and practical solutions.
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