With a positive view toward the future, there will come a time when COVID-19 and its global outbreak will not occupy every major headline and conversation.  The pandemic continues to present immense challenges, even as we approach the midpoint of 2020.  While the cost has been high, response in all areas of society has been impressive and effective.

As businesses, healthcare providers, faith-based, and community organizations struggle with plans to reopen, the CDC gives sound guidance which can make the planning process a little smoother.  People are yearning for a restoration of the necessities and conveniences we all took for granted just months ago, but caution and common sense must prevail to ensure a safe environment for employees and patrons alike.

If you are contemplating reopening or considering how to go about bringing dispersed employees back on campus, these guides provided by CDC are a welcomed resource.

Deciding whether your campus or facility is ready to resume operation can be complicated.  To gain clarity in your decision-making process, you must understand what measures should be in place to minimize exposure and provide a safe environment for all. The CDC’s Workplaces During the COVID-19 Pandemic is a one-page document – a decision tree that can help with your planning and decisions about reopening.

Another CDC resource entitled Prepare your Small Business and Employees for the Effects of COVID-19 gives guidance for minimizing disruption and maximizing safe and healthy practices.  Included is a list of top 10 tips to protect employees’ health.  Some of them are –

• Actively encourage sick employees to stay home
• Promote etiquette for coughing, sneezing, and handwashing
• Perform routine environmental cleaning
• Provide education and training materials
• Have open conversations with employees about their concerns
• Have a plan of action for employees that become sick while at work

Both documents include links to more information from CDC.  Healthy employees are crucial to your business as you move ahead toward regained productivity and profitability.  Plan well and keep looking forward!