6 Steps Employers Should Take to Prepare for Coronavirus in the Workplace

With experts indicating the inevitable spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) across the United States, many employers want to know how they can best prepare their workplaces.

1) Make a plan before before you need a plan.

Decisions made in haste can expose companies to liability. A reasoned, fact-based, plan will help your company navigate the outbreak.

  • Develop a business continuity plan for use in the event of mandatory closures or local infections.
  • Identify key business functions and personnel and plan for how the company will continue to operate during a closure.
  • Consider your crisis communication plan and ensure that information can be communicated quickly to your employees.

2) Review your existing sick leave and remote work policies.

  • Consider whether your organization is able to expand remote work options.
  • Under New Jersey and New York City paid sick leave laws, the closure of a business or a child’s school is a permissible reason to use paid sick leave.

3) If you’re sick, stay home!

  • Emphasize the availability of sick leave to your employees.
  • Encourage employees who are under the weather to stay home.

4) Post and circulate information on proper hand-washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette, and other preventative measures.

5) Be mindful of state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

  • Avoid making decisions based on an individual’s race, nationality, or other protected status.
  • Remember that employees’ medical information must remain strictly confidential.
  • If you have questions about any specific situation that may arise, consult with counsel.

6) Furloughs or Layoffs.

  • If layoffs or furloughs become necessary, you should consult with counsel to ensure that those decisions are made and implemented in a manner that complies with all applicable state and federal laws, and regulations.

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