Back to Work Resources
COVID-19 dominated the first quarter of 2020 and is creeping further into the year. States are in various stages of preparation as they seek to reopen and accomplish some sense of normalcy again. As parts of the countries begin to reopen, local, state and federal governments provide recommendations while employers are left to figure out the details and execute plans that bring employees safely back to work in hopes of spurring on the economy. Here are steps that employers can take to help ensure a safe environment for their employees and customers, as well as some helpful resources to implement the plan.
Resources to Get Back to Work
At Moody Insurance Worldwide, we understand the uncertainties that businesses in all industries are facing in the wake of COVID-19. As businesses receive the go ahead to slowly start reopening and adjusting to a new normal, we know there are going to be inherent complications and concerns along the way. For these reasons, we have provided helpful resources for businesses and people alike to utilize as they return to work. These include:
General Precautions
As a precautionary measure, all businesses no matter the industry should implement the following guidelines:
Personal Recommendations
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Cover mouths and noses with an elbow when sneezing or coughing.
- Maintain six feet of distance from other people.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Let your employer know if you have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19;
Business Recommendations
- Display posters and deliver communication that promotes handwashing and healthy hygiene.
- Make masks available for employees to wear in common areas.
- Consider employee temperature screening.
- Put sanitizing hand rub dispensers in the lobby and other prominent places around the workplace.
- Restrict access to and overcrowding of break rooms, cafeterias, and conference rooms.
- Prohibit the mixed-use of items such as phones, keyboards, desks, offices, and other equipment.
- Implement a frequent routine of cleaning and disinfecting.
- Consider phasing in the number of employees.
- Consider remote work options whenever possible.
- Allow in the fresh air and improved ventilation when possible.
Full Circle
Small, separate cubes and offices were popular years ago until a shift was made to an open office environment. However, COVID-19 is prompting a return to private, separate spaces with greater distance between desks and people. It is also sparking greater innovation in technology as tech companies work toward things like UV lighting that disinfects and touchless access to offices and elevators. One global real estate firm launched the Six Feet Office Project, which is an idea still in its conception that seeks to promote a safe environment and a healthy workplace.
Industry-Specific Guidelines
While all employers should implement general precautionary measures, specific industries and businesses will need to exact precise measures that relate to their buildings, employees, and business models. Construction, Manufacturing, Hotels, and Hair Salons include some of the business entities that will have to implement additional measures to maintain a safe environment for their employees and customers. Additional precautions could include training, disposable towels, and disinfectants for cleaning workspaces, flex shifts, and transitions to virtual processes.
About Moody Insurance Worldwide
Moody Insurance Worldwide, a division of Moody & Associates that was founded in 1914, is a leading provider of risk management programs and insurance coverage to individuals and businesses across the East Coast. We write all sizes of businesses, with technical expertise in many key industry areas, and provide personal insurance programs for estates and high net worth individuals. Our licensed, experienced commercial account managers can work with you to determine the coverage that you need at a competitive rate. Contact us today at (855) 868-0170 to learn more about what we can do for you.