As we move into the season of football and fall foliage, employers would, unfortunately, need to also prepare for something a lot less enjoyable – the flu season. With temperatures dropping and demand for tissues rising, preparedness is key, particularly with the added challenges brought about by COVID-19.
In a recent article published on JD Supra, a number of steps that manufacturers, and by extension all employers, could consider at this time of year were highlighted.
Employers will need to consider a range of factors including the health and safety of their employees, the potential impact on productivity, as well as the potential legal implications that could arise as a result of their approach to managing the flu season and, of course, COVID-19.
This calls for a well thought out response plan which should not only be reactive, dealing with issues as they arise but also proactive, anticipating potential challenges and having structures in place to deal with these as effectively as possible.
With the evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and the wide range of issues that employers need to consider, the preparation for the flu season this year is likely to be more challenging than in previous years.
While no plan can guarantee complete prevention of these illnesses, having an effective response plan will go a long way in ensuring the safety and well-being of employees while also reducing the potential legal risk for employers.