Swine Flu--What Should Employers Do

Until now, the swine flu (Influenza A virus, H1N1) has not reached pandemic status, but it could. Unfortunately, human being is not immured to the virus that causes the flu. The number of swine flu cases reported in the United States and Mexico has been increasing and the news media are paying a close attention to the outbreak; therefore, many of the employees may have concerns regarding their potential for exposure to the flu at work .

If you are an employer, then you have the responsibility to protect your employees. You should let your employees know that you also have concerns, and you have made every effort to keep them safe. Basically, you can post infection control instructions on company website, or in elevators, such as frequent hand washing with soap and water, or even alcohol-based hand gels. Besides, there are some other aspects you should pay attention to:

First, you should review your safety policies and develop an emergency response plan. You should try to reach the “best practices” that go beyond legal requirements. This will be helpful. An emergency response plan can save lives and properties of a company in case of a disaster.

Second, you’d better review your home-stay policies and adjust them. Employees can be encouraged to work at home if they experience flu-like symptoms. In this way, you can continue your operation in a crisis. This will be helpful and reduce your loss.

Then, you should make plans for a potential impact of a pandemic on your business, your employees and customers. Try to communicate with your employees that you are following the situation closely and will take all necessary steps to ensure their safety and health.