There are many important factors to consider when managing a business. Juggling the vast number of components that comprise a good business is no easy task and many employers forget that one of their most important assets is their employees. Without a strong human workforce, a business is unable to thrive, especially in today’s world. As companies begin to reopen their doors to customers and resume somewhat normal activities, it is imperative that employers do everything in their power to protect their employees. 

Employer Responsibilities

In response to the COVID-19, many employees are wondering what responsibility their employer has in ensuring their health and protection from the virus. Employers are currently not required to do anything specific in order to protect their employees from COVID-19, however, it is strongly recommended and required that businesses in general follow the recommendations of masks, social distancing , hand washing, stay-at-home when sick, and other common health precautions. 

Educating Employees About COVID-19

Although employers aren’t required to more than the minimum to ensure their business is a safe and sanitary environment, they should consider the ways in which they can better educate their employees about how to protect themselves from contracting coronavirus. Taking the time to ensure all employees have a better understanding of the virus and how to prevent the spread of it can help reduce the likelihood of COVID-19 impacting employees or customers at a business. There are several easy steps employers can encourage their employees to take in order to reduce the instance of COVID-19 in the workplace:

• Take temperatures daily
• Educate about compliance requirements of social distancing
• Understand the common signs and symptoms of an individual affected by COVID-19
• Reiterate the importance of health and sanitary measures both in and out of the workplace

Employer Negligence and Employee Rights 

If you are an employee who has been exposed to COVID-19 at work or feel as though your employer has been negligent in reducing the likelihood of the spread of COVID-19 at your workplace, you may be wondering what rights you have under these circumstances. Although there has been a drastic improvement in the policies in place for employees in response to COVID-19, this is still widely unchartered territory. If you do contract covid under these circumstances, however, it makes for a strong case against your employer for workers’ compensation benefits. If you are interested in learning more about your rights or exploring potential options for workers’ compensation benefits, contact Poirier Law Firm today. We are here to protect and fight for employees, especially in this unprecedented time of need.