On Tuesday, August 31st, the Government made an important announcement with regard to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
While most restrictions will end on October 22nd, the key date for employers is September 20th. That’s when a phased return to the workplace can begin in accordance with a new Work Safely Protocol that will be introduced prior to this date.
For the purposes of this article, we’re focusing on employees returning to the workplace and what action employers must now take.
How will this announcement impact your business in the next 20 days?
While Cabinet stated that employers can begin a phased return of employees to the workplace from September 20th, flexibility is encouraged.
Depending on the sector, it may mean bringing employees back in groups or to a certain number for a period. During this transition, employees may notify you of their intention to request remote work when it becomes a right later this year.
As such, it’s best to remain open-minded over the coming months. It may take some time to return to full capacity and find working solutions that everyone is happy with.
Health Minister sets out approach for moving forward
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly stated that “I think what you will see is a move away, in a gradual sense, from the rules and regulations-based systems to one that does place an emphasis on personal responsibility, and on living alongside it (the virus) in a cautious way.”
Phased return to the workplace
From an employer perspective, the decisions of Cabinet require affirmative action in the form of:
- Communicating ‘Return to Work’ procedures to employees.
- Assessing space within office environments to ensure staff safety.
- Establishing measures within the workplace to prevent a COVID-19 outbreak.
With NPHET expected to be reduced in terms of its input in the coming weeks, it’s crucial for employers to implement processes and measures on how to begin the gradual return to the workplace as soon as possible. A number of issues may arise which require time to manage and these can include a requirement for flexible working and remote working to continue.
Need our help when returning your employees?
If you have questions about bringing employees back into the workplace or updating employment contracts and policies, speak to a Graphite expert now on 01 886 0350 or request a callback here.
