Even as provinces across the country are slowly beginning to reopen for business, the COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing and will have a lasting effect on the way that all Canadians work and live.
For starters, it’s entirely possible that many companies that generally run out of offices will simply decide that it’s easier and safer for employees to work remotely at home. With that being said, however, many offices will eventually reopen, and the challenge for employers will be to show their employees that their health and safety is at the forefront of their thinking. To that end, we’ve put together this short blog containing some advice on what you can do to make sure that your employees feel safe if and when they come back to work.
Hire COVID-19 screeners
In recent weeks, RPI’s team of Account Managers have received many requests from offices and small businesses that are looking to hire COVID-19 screeners to screen employees and visitors for any potential symptoms. These screeners range from registered practical nurses (RPNs) with several years’ worth of experience in healthcare, to individuals with a history of working at events with long lines and crowds. Screeners use an infrared, no-contact thermometer to ensure that employees don’t have a fever, and they’ll also be asked a series of questions about other potential symptoms. Hiring a screener or two for your business will show your employees that their well-being is important to you as their employer.
Stock up on PPE
Personal protective equipment (PPE) will, in all likelihood, become a part of everyone’s regular routine moving forward. This can include simple things like face masks and gloves, to more protective gear such as full face shields. When/if your employees come back to work, consider providing them with basic PPE, especially those employees who take public transit daily. By providing them with simple items such as masks and gloves, you’ll be giving them peace of mind about their trips to and from work, as well as ensuring that they feel safe in the office.
Be understanding
While the majority of COVID-19 cases and deaths tend to affect the elderly and persons with preexisting conditions, there’s no doubt that it’s a very serious virus. It’s completely understandable if employees are apprehensive about returning to work, even if the curve has been flattened, and as an employer, it’s important that you take precautions and reassure employees that you’re taking their worries to heart.
In closing
We’re not out of the woods yet, but when offices and workplaces inevitably begin to reopen, follow these tips and make sure that you’re helping your employees ease back into a normal work schedule.
If you have any interest in hiring COVID-19 screeners, or simply want more information on how they can help, give our team of Account Managers a call today and ask them any questions that you may have.
Phone: 416-850-9809; Toll-Free: 1-866-505-3383
Email: info@rpigroup.ca
