From 1st April, the government will end free testing for individuals and businesses, which puts more onus on employers for setting their own COVID policies. The guidance on working from home has been lifted and the legal requirement to self-isolate following a positive test has also been replaced with guidance to stay at home. This leaves many employees facing challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve.
This article looks at the implications for employers, and how they can continue to consider the physical and emotional wellbeing of their workforce and maintain a fully productive and operational business.
Are your policies up to date?
Employers will need to set out their policies and procedures to keep their employees safe. For example, requiring individuals who test positive to still work from home when they can, and whether regular testing is required. How regularly you expect your workforce to be in the office and how you will continue to support them when they work from home.
Pay and sick pay for positive cases
If the employee is well enough to work, despite testing positive, they can be asked to work from home and paid as normal if their role allows. Until 24 March, statutory sick pay will continue to be payable from day 1 for employees who test positive for Covid but who cannot work from home.
Those with concerns about returning to the office
Perhaps one of the biggest hurdles is bringing people back into the workplace and ensuring that everyone is protected and feels safe.
Employees may be reluctant for personal reasons, such as health concerns, pregnancy, or anxiety around vulnerable family members. It is important to treat concerns on an individual basis, and ensure that where reasonable adjustments are identified, you give them proper consideration.
Managers should have honest and open conversations with their team members individually about returning to the workplace. The company may be encouraging people back on a staged / hybrid basis, and this may be for the benefit of the business. If this is the case, employers need to be clear of their intention and the reasons behind it, clearly stating the benefits for both the business and employees’ social interaction and team collaboration.
A continuous testing programme for your employees
Some employers may wish to implement a regular workplace testing programme to screen for all positive cases, including those who are asymptomatic. There are now private healthcare companies offering a lateral flow testing service which reports results to both the employee and the employer. This ensures that results are reported accurately via the employer and a regular testing process is put in place for everyone to adhere to.
Returning to the workplace after a global pandemic can be extremely daunting for everyone. Employers need to remain flexible, understanding and ensure clear communication to make a happy and productive return for everyone involved.
If you would like any guidance or advice on HR policies relating to COVID-19, please contact us for a free consultation.
