For some of you, summer is coming to an end as we head into August. Here in Florida, summer is probably at least another couple months. Most everyone likes the transition of seasons. When it comes to COVID-19, we thought we were transitioning into a new season, one with less restrictions. Employers and HR professionals had a brief, calming assumption that we had some breathing room (literally and figuratively) after navigating the pandemic.
Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. Not yet. Once again, we are focusing on our “duty of care” and potential liability in a sea of swelling infection rates and employee confusion. Don’t be complacent. We know we have a responsibility for employee health. We can handle this! Rely on your COVID and Infection Control policies and practices. Examine your back-to-work procedures and revalidate them. Make sure that you are following the latest CDC guidance on masks in your workplace. Now is not the time to “be tired of all of this”.
This too will end at some point. In the meantime, do the right thing and protect your employees. This will lower your stress and help you sleep at night knowing you did everything you could. Encourage management to be good examples for your staff. Lead from the top! Hopefully, the next transition will be easier. Happy August!
