Yes, we are all tired of it. And, yes, most of us have relaxed COVID routines in our personal lives as we’ve gotten vaccinated and boosted. But as employers, we still have a responsibility to protect our workforce and customers. And, with COVID numbers increasing again in parts of the country and the Centers for Disease Control’s recommendations evolving, employers should continue to take precautions and make sure their workplace COVID policies are up to date. Your employees are your most important asset and it is worthwhile to remain vigilant in support of their wellbeing.
Safety Check List
Below are some reminders and refreshers to bring up with your team during a safety meeting:
- Clearly communicate the CDC definition of “fully vaccinated.” According to the CDC, you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines when you have received all doses in the primary series and one booster.
- Clearly communicate the company policy concerning COVID. The policy should be available to every employee, at any time.
- Instruct all employees to monitor their symptoms daily, and to stay home if they are unwell or have a fever, regardless of vaccination status.
- Strongly encourage and provide necessary supplies for continued good hygiene practices. Remind employees who have not been fully vaccinated to continue to follow established masking and physical distancing procedures.
- Remind employees who are immunocompromised (or live with a family member who is) that they may voluntarily wear a mask and physically distance, even if they have been vaccinated. Be sure that your team feels comfortable in choosing to mask. It’s important for their wellbeing and that of their family members.
- Allow for reasonable accommodations to assist staff who are either unvaccinated or immunocompromised to maintain a safe and healthy workspace. This may not work in all workplaces. However creating safe ways for your team to continue working is advantageous for you and for them.
- Encourage respect and support in the work environment for all individuals, specifically those who choose to maintain more cautious practices. Communication is key, when people understand policies and feel supported, they’ll have better mental health, even during this uncertain time.
- Worksites with medical facilities, above the level of basic first aid (company medical offices, school nurse applications, etc.) are now governed by the OSHA Emergency Standard for the Protection of Healthcare Workers from COVID 19, located on the OSHA website. KNOW THE RULES.
- Frequently monitor CDC.gov and your state website to stay current on guidelines.
If you need help, reach out to TSS and we’ll help you strategize ways to support your employees. Also, consider taking our highly-rated COVID Clean course as a reminder of strategies you can implement in your workplace to keep your employees and the community safe.