To say that the working world has changed since COVID-19 hit would be something of an understatement. Businesses have had to adapt to the pandemic at lightning-speed, with many organisations working remotely and others opening to the public only with the necessary safety measures in place. In this article, we’ll explore how organisations are keeping both staff and customers safe in the midst of Coronavirus.
Promoting first-class hygiene
We all understand the importance of keeping our hands clean, and sanitising stations are the best way to ensure customers and employees keep that nasty bacteria at bay. Placing these at the entryway to a business is really effective, as is displaying them sporadically. Don’t forget washrooms and staff areas, either. Shops with trolleys and baskets need to think about providing things like tissue roll, to keep handles as germ-free as possible. And it goes without saying that every organisation needs to up their game when it comes to cleaning, making sure floors and surfaces are disinfected regularly.
Maintaining social distancing
While it’s impossible to guarantee social distancing, investing in measures such as transparent screens, floor stickers and crowd control barriers will keep customers and employees at as safe a distance as possible when queuing, paying or sitting, for example. Team members will need to keep an eye on the number of customers or staff in an area, as well, so things don’t get crowded.
Working remotely
Where possible, the advice is to still work from home if you have the means to do so. That means ensuring employees are set up with the right equipment, have access to the right virtual folders, and are clear on the timelines for a return to the office. Keeping on top of employee wellbeing and engagement is key, so make sure staff are kept informed with regular communications, and try and get as much face-to-face time via video calls in as possible
Striving for good communication
Having a team that knows what’s-what is so important at a time like this. Placing someone at the entrance to your business keeps the flow of people coming in calm and staggered, while those ‘on the floor’ can manage one-way systems, busy areas and queues. Businesses displaying stock should also consider levels. Empty shelves suddenly refilled can cause a rush of interest, so proceed with caution! Good communication also extends to your signage. Reminding people to wear masks, one-in, one-out washroom policies – all will help with a smooth and safe operation.
Knowing your industry requirements
Unsurprisingly, close-contact professionals such as beauticians, tailors, hairdressers and tattooists will have different requirements to say, construction or factory workers, while hospitality staff will have a whole other set of guidelines to follow. It sounds obvious, but it’s crucial to keep up to date about the developments in your particular industry. Use the gov.uk site for help and advice relevant to you.
