Alex Wilkins, Head of Business Development at iHASCO, outlines the top 5 considerations when it comes to compliance if you have returned employees to the workplace or are implementing a gradual return.
For those businesses wanting to bring their employees back to the workplace after the government's work from home guidance was lifted in England on 19th July, there are important health, safety and wellbeing considerations which must be addressed in order to remain compliant. We have been supporting our clients with these vital areas to help them ensure a safe and smooth transition, as well as demonstrate to their employees that they can return confidently.
Display Screen Equipment (DSE)
Figures from a YouGov poll found that 23% of the 2000 adults surveyed reported having headaches/migraines as a result of DSE use since COVID-19. Employers are required to carry out DSE assessments when an employee changes work station, therefore it is important to help your staff understand how to stay safe and productive when they return, as well as complete a DSE assessment to resolve any set-up issues. This will help them mitigate the risks of musculoskeletal injuries, headaches and eye strain.
Fire Safety
Businesses still have legal obligations surrounding fire safety, and it is likely that your fire risks have changed as a result of COVID-19, whether you have remained operational or been closed for a certain period of time. Employers need to be mindful about any changes to the layout of the premises or the working environment, and update the fire risk assessment accordingly. Refreshing staff training when it comes to fire safety is crucial, especially after time away from the workplace. It’s also important to ensure your business has enough trained Fire Wardens, especially if staff have flexible working patterns.
Data protection
GDPR compliance is essential at all times and it’s likely some staff will have fallen back into old ways whilst remote working. Those returning to the workplace may need a refresher on the GDPR procedures required to keep data safe in the workplace, as well as a reminder on what to do in the event of a data breach. The best way to avoid a costly breach, is to educate your employees and ensure they take reasonable steps to protect data.
Infection, prevention and control
While the government has removed COVID restrictions in England, an organisation is still responsible for the welfare of its employees. Reducing the risk of infections in the workplace is sensible to help avoid illness and prevent staff absence. It’s thought that if a single door handle is contaminated by an infectious disease it can spread around a building within as little as two to four hours. Helping your employees understand how infection spreads and steps they can take to maintain good hygiene, such as hand washing, disposing of waste safely and keeping your environment clean is crucial, and will help employees feel more at ease when making a return.
Mental health and wellbeing
A return to the office may cause additional stress and anxiety, so it is vital that you support your employees. Managers can play an important role in easing staff back, and regularly checking in with them. Ideally, you should have a conversation with all employees before they make a return to work and adapt their working hours or role if they are struggling with their mental health. Being open and having these conversations will help create a culture of care.
iHASCO’s range of eLearning titles will help organisations remain compliant and successfully reopen the workplace. With a range of Health & Safety titles, they make it easy for your staff to remain safe and productive. Request a free trial of the entire course library today, to see how the courses could benefit your employees.
