Now that you’ve assessed risk tolerance with your employees, is it time to return to the office?
Prepare your organization for employee questions and concerns by having a robust plan.
The purpose of a return to work plan is to outline the protocols established to safeguard your
employees for a safe return to work and educate them on best practices to prevent the spread of the virus.
Step 1: Listen to the experts. First and foremost, highlight the company’s responsibility and
due diligence to adhere and follow guidelines set out by the government and Alberta Health
authorities. They are the experts (and the law), and their recommendations will be monitored on an on-going basis.
Step 2: Implement a daily workplace entry screening process. This should include a self-
assessment questionnaire, and anyone who is not able to attest that they are clear of symptoms and have not been in contact with someone who is ill are not allowed into the office.
Step 3: Outline building etiquette and safety measures. Connect with your building to inquire
on what safety measures they have put in place. Perhaps they have rules around physical
distancing within stairwells, or capacity limitations within elevators. Are only certain doors that can open automatically being used?
Step 4: Prepare your post-pandemic workplace. Inform your employees on the measures
you’ve taken to best prepare their return to work, such as:
Outlining the arrival process. Setting out sanitizer stations on each floor and requiring all employees and visitors to sanitize their hands whenever they enter the workspace.
Implementing physical distancing methods through measuring, assessing, and marking each floor with brightly colored physical distancing stickers.
Ordering and distributing additional PPE and medical supplies, such as, face masks, hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes and gloves.
Communicating an increase in disinfection and cleaning measures, especially in high touch areas.
Creating physical distancing rules and guidelines for common areas, such as, foyers, kitchens, meeting rooms and printing areas.
Step 5: Keep the lines of communication open. It is an uncertain and potentially
uncomfortable time for employees to be back in the workplace. Engage your employees and
send out updates to keep your employees up to date on any announcements or changes within this new work environment. Communication is a two-way street, provide employees with an email or phone number to report information or give feedback on the current safety measures in place.
If you would like help or advice in developing a strategic return to workplan, specific to your
company, contact us anytime at info@vimyhr.com or text 403-478-7710.
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