How to safely resume operations after lockdown
Slowly, the economy and society are moving back toward "normal operations. But getting there is not easy, especially since companies have to take a large number of measures - depending on the industry. Eight steps help to ensure a safe resumption of operations.
Returning to the "new normal" is becoming more of a focus for many organizations as Covid 19 measures are eased. Organizations must now work to ensure a safe and sustainable resumption of operations. This is not always easy, as failure to comply with appropriate Covid-19 containment measures results in legal consequences in many countries.
Companies are facing unprecedented challenges on several fronts. To sustainably address the economic and social consequences of the Corona crisis, companies must ensure the safety and well-being of their employees as they resume operations. This is to avoid a backlash in the fight against COVID-19, as well as possible criminal prosecutions.
Eight points for the safe resumption of operations
To help companies get back up and running, International SOS - a leading health and safety risk management service provider - has launched what it calls a Worksafe Protocol with the following eight measures:
- Workplace measures: screening, zoning, barriers, cleaning protocols, ventilation, access, and the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
and IT equipment, if required. - Operations (Operational): isolation, basic hygiene, health and medical measures; health questionnaires and physical and mental health support.
- Regulations: creating and adapting policies that are in line with government regulations. This to ensure that medical needs are met around the
occupational health and safety for employees at their workplace and while traveling, is fully covered. - Knowledge and Know-How: Knowledge of current quarantine and transport regulations and medical certifications. Ability to perform timely contact tracing and use of quarantine measures. Consideration of privacy is a must.
- Social distancing: limiting the number of employees in the workplace, space planning, staggering work hours and days, including A/B team shifts, flexible work arrangements and home office.
- Alerts: Develop automated methods to be alerted to emerging threats, e.g., new local clusters, second COVID-19 wave, and changing security risks, such as civil unrest.
- Strengthen: Build partnerships with infectious disease experts for detailed and competent advice, which is provided in a timely manner.
- Empowerment of employees: Communication and training are necessary to introduce new working conditions and policies. Involving top management and clearly defining responsibilities are critical.
The right measures for successful normal operation
Cédric Fraissinet, Managing Director at International SOS, Switzerland: "No company can guarantee that the spread of infection will be prevented. However, decisive precautions can minimize risks, fulfill the Duty of Care, and strengthen the resilience of employees. In this context, solid preparation and actionable insights based on up-to-date information are a must. This allows hazards to be identified and risks to be mitigated. If necessary, a solution can be found quickly. Considering government regulations and assessing what is necessary for employees to return to work safely, both from a logistical and personal perspective, is a major challenge for many organizations. Therefore, those organizations that implement the right measures will have the greatest chance of success."
Source and further information: International SOS
