How to Create a COVID-19 Response Plan
We have a guest blogger on Direct Talk today - Mimi Soule, Managing Partner | Management Advisor at Soule Employment Law Firm
All employers, no matter how small, are required under NC and federal law to provide a safe working environment for their employees. To meet this legal obligation, employers should create a plan to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to avoid exposing employees and customers to the virus. In an effort to control the outbreak and to ensure that employers are meeting all legal requirements related to this pandemic, we are advising all employers – no matter the size of the employer – to take the steps below.
Prepare a Plan.
The specifics of each employer’s plan will vary depending on the business’ services, internal set-up, workforce, customer demand, etc. At a minimum, however, all employers should institute guidelines for their employees per the CDC on basic preventative guidance as follows:
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and/or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Discard tissue immediately into a closed bin.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
The CDC has also provided employers with additional guidance on preparing a COVID-19 response plan, which is available HERE. Some of these additional suggestions include: