Tips on returning employees to work after the pandemic

If we have learned anything from the current pandemic, it is this—we don’t yet have a universal, comprehensive understanding of COVID-19. As both federal and state governments begin to discuss reopening the economy, this presents a quandary for businesses, which are caught between calling back their workforces and fulfilling their obligations under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) to provide a safe work environment free from recognized hazards.

Reopening strategies

As reopening begins, you will need to carefully monitor guidance being generated from authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health officials. In addition, measures you may consider implementing to mitigate against workplace COVID-19 risks include the following.

Phased-in reentry. You may need to reopen your workforce in phases, with employees who are able to work remotely continuing to do so while others  are returned to the worksite in small groups.

Staggered start times. By asking employees to report to work at staggered start times, you can reduce crowding in elevators and other common areas.