Posted on Jan 4th 2021.
During the pandemic current guidance remains that people who can work from home should do so, however, if you are in a position where you are bringing your staff back to work there a number of points that you must consider. The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) identifies 3 tests that employers must pass before bringing their teams back – these are …
The CIPD are clear in their communication that employers should demonstrate that all practical steps have been taken to ensure that employees feel safe to return.
When returning to work you have a duty to protect, as far as reasonably practicable, employee’s health, safety, and welfare.
As an employer you have a duty to support employee’s mental health during their return to work.
Be conscious of any difficult situation’s employees may have experienced or are experiencing during this period and offer support where you can.
You may have employees with childcare challenges or those who are clinically extremely vulnerable and are anxious or have been instructed to shield. Have open conversations and identify ways that you can support your employees.
If a worker raises a concern about a failure to provide a safe working environment this could amount to a protected disclosure under whistleblowing and employees can also contact the HSE with concerns.
Employment, equality, and discrimination laws will apply in the usual way so make sure your decisions are fair.
When your teams return to work a period of re-induction will be important to reacclimatise them to the workplace – especially if they have been furloughed.
Communicate any changes the company has seen, any changes to work duties or tasks or changes to procedures.
If you haven’t already, clearly communicate all that is being done to protect their health, safety, and wellbeing.
It is important that you stay up to date with the latest Government.
Public Health and HSE guidance, check the sources and ensure that you are clear on your responsibilities as an employer to protect your employees and your business.
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With over 20 years HR generalist experience across all disciplines, Sarah has worked across a number of business sectors and understands the importance of robust and practical HR processes and trained, motivated and engaged people in delivering business success.
As Wurkplace’s Head of HR, she is passionate about both providing the best HR service to our Clients as well as recruiting, developing and retaining the best team.
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