On Aug. 19, 2009, the federal government recommended that businesses plan for a swine flu pandemic by making attendance and sick leave policies more flexible. We know from our clients that many were already doing just that, and many more were thinking about it.
“There has been a change from typical business as usual,” said Tim Newman of Watson Wyatt, “in that many companies are advising employees, ‘If you’re sick you should stay home,’ as opposed to ‘If you’re sick, tough it out.’”
As we approach the Fall season, it is likely flu cases will swell in coming month. The Obama administration officials have urged corporate managers to prepare. Among their suggestions:
• Tell employees showing flu symptoms to stay home until 24 hours after their fevers pass.
• Develop plans for operating with reduced staffing.
• Allow more work from home.
• Consider placing workstations farther apart.
• Liberalize sick, personal and family leave, at least temporarily.
Don’t wait; give us a call. We can assist you with suggestions and ideas for policies and/or contingency planning to keep your business operating efficiently.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
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