Many companies are taking precautions in light of the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (the Coronavirus or COVID-19). The following are some guidelines to consider when planning for this situation and in communicating internally with employees.
When communicating with clients, you should note that these guidelines are a preventive measure and we suggest providing employees with information from recognized sources such as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).
Areas for your plan/guidelines should include:
- Workplace cleanliness and hygiene
- Remote work accommodations
- Business travel
- Leave policies
- Medical tests and privacy
- Attendance policy
- Time-keeping for non-exempt employees
Office Cleanliness
Ask employees to use good judgment and use proper sanitary practices in the office. More specific guidance is listed below directly from the CDC website.
Remote Work Accommodation
Any necessary remote work arrangements should be established with the Company in advance. Plans for emergency situations and essential functions should be considered.
Business Travel
Inform employees that the company retains discretion to limit non-essential airline travel.
The WHO also has issued travel advisories that can be found at
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/travel-advice.
Leave Policies
Refer employees to the company handbook for applicable leave policies and workplace accommodation policies
Medical Tests and Privacy
Respect employee privacy, particularly related to health matters, and request that employees not disclose protected health information to managers.
Attendance Policy
Notify employees that the Company continues to follow its attendance policies and traditional work policies unless otherwise approved.
Time-Keeping for Non-Exempt Employees
If a non-exempt employee is permitted to work remotely for purposes of treating or preventing exposure to the Coronavirus or other infectious disease, the employee must continue to follow the company’s time-keeping policies, especially for non-exempt employees.
