Return to the workplace

As the gradual lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in Ireland includes a phased return to the workplace, employers need to be aware of the various steps involved, writes The HR Company’s Linda Ward

Earlier this year, the Irish Government announced that from 20 September 2021, employees could begin to return to the workplace on a phased basis, in line with the Return to Work Safely Protocol. Whether your employees are already in the workplace, or you are expecting them back some time in the future, below are some steps you should consider taking.

‘Where employees are reluctant to return to the workplace, you will need a robust business case available as to why you require them to return’

1. Conduct a risk assessment – employers have specific duties to ensure the safety, health and welfare at work of all employees. Physical, emotional and psychological risks should be assessed. Control measures should be implemented to minimise/eradicate these risks.

2. Implement as many safety measures as possible – for example, social distancing, face masks and hand sanitisers.

3. Update your safety statement and other relevant health and safety policies. Checklists, templates and further information can be found on hsa.ie.

4. Ask employees to fill in the Return to Work Form prior to their return, which is also available on hsa.ie. To help prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the workplace, every worker must complete and sign this form before returning to work. On review of the form, business owners/ managers may contact employees and ask that they not return to work immediately, and discuss a suitable future date. Also, ensure that the workers you have requested to return to the workplace have been selected fairly.

5. Where employees are reluctant to return to the workplace, you will need a robust business case available as to why you require them to return. There are a number of issues relating to discrimination you should be mindful of, such as family status and disability. In addition, you will need to take into account an employee’s childcare issues.

6. Communicate your absence policy to ensure employees understand what is expected of them. Apply this policy fairly across the workforce.

7. Appoint at least one lead work representative. This person will assist in the implementation of the control measures, and monitoring the adherence to such measures, to prevent Covid-19 outbreaks.

8. Relevant Covid-19 posters should be placed around the workplace, where applicable and appropriate. These are available to download on gov.ie.

9. Devise and/or update your business Covid-19 Response Plan. This is an integral part of your safety management system

10. Keep a contact log of all guests/ visitors who enter your premises and stay for longer than 15 minutes.

11. Educate and train employees on all of the latest up-to-date advice and guidance on public health, and what they should do if they develop symptoms of Covid-19.