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A Step-By-Step Guide For Employers If Their Staff Comes Down With COVID-19

2021-09-08 , 11:06 am

With COVID-19 measures changing faster than a chameleon on a Picasso painting, it can be hard to keep up.

If you’re an employer, this is especially concerning since you’re responsible for your employees and implementing the necessary safety measures as dictated by the authorities.

Recently, the government announced new workplace measures that employers need to follow in the event that an employee contracts the coronavirus.

It sounds complicated, but it really isn’t. Here’s what you need to know in 3 simple steps:

1. 14-Day WFH For All Employees If a Worker Tests Positive

If any employee has contracted COVID-19 and has returned to the office afterwards, employers must impose a work-from-home (WFH) requirement over a 14-day period.

The telecommuting requirement will apply to all employees who were in the workplace at any time in the seven days prior to the individual testing positive.

The employer should implement the WFH requirement as soon as possible, and no later than one day after the positive test result.

2. Premises Where Confirmed Case Worked Should Be Cordoned Off

In addition, employers should cordon off the section of the workplace where the confirmed case worked.

They should then conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the areas and assets that were exposed to the confirmed case.

While the affected section should be vacated immediately, there is no need to vacate the entire floor or building, unless others have had prolonged and close contact with the confirmed case.

3. Preventive Measures

Employers should also instruct workers who are on medical leave to closely monitor their health before they return to the workplace.

And, according to the Ministry of Manpower, they should require their workers to visit only one clinic when they feel unwell, if possible.

This shouldn’t have to be said but all employees should notify their employer immediately if they test positive for COVID-19.

Other Measures: No More Workplace Gatherings

Depending on how much you like your colleagues, this could be great or awful news.

From today (8 Sep), social gatherings and interactions at workplaces will also be banned.

The authorities noted that recent clusters in workplace settings, such as those in bus interchanges, have formed because of “lax” safe management measures, particularly in canteens and pantries.

These areas are where people “tend to let their guard down”, and since their masks are down, the virus can spread more easily.

The health ministry said on Monday (6 Sep) that it would take ” tougher action if there are positive cases among workers who are infected.”

To detect infections before they spread further, workers in more sectors will also be tested as part of the mandatory fast and easy testing regime.

The frequency of these tests may also be increased, from once every two weeks to once weekly.

Until the end of 2021, the cost of these tests will be borne by the government.

As always, if you feel unwell, do seek medical attention and avoid going to your office.