As more businesses begin to open their doors, employers must ensure that employees who return to work are trained on new safety measures and are returning to work safely. Controls should be put in place to ensure the highest degree of employee safety as possible, employees should be aware of new controls in the workplace and be updated consistently as needed.
Controls and safety measures to have in place when employees return to work include limiting face-to-face contact where possible, face-to-face meetings should be conducted alternatively online. Physical barriers should also be utilized to redesign workspaces that allow employees to have a 36ft distance around them from other employees.
Employees returning to work should be trained on the organization’s new safety protocols and procedures, including how employees will be health screened upon entering the workplace, physical distancing measures, any required personal protective equipment and surface/equipment decontamination and cleaning procedures. This training should be conducted through virtual methods where possible.
Adequate signage should be posted in the workplace regarding the organization’s pandemic protocols and procedures. Signs for proper handwashing procedures should be posted by sinks in all washrooms. Signage to be posted also includes, but is not limited to, social distancing requirements, screening processes and personal protective equipment.
It is important to maintain consistent communication with employees who are returning to work to ensure any questions or concerns about the organization’s pandemic safety protocols or the return to work process are answered.
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