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Protocols for the reopening of Irish companies after the closure of Covid-19 were released today.
And companies have been warned that the Safety and Health Authority (HSA) may close workplaces that they do not comply with.
The ‘Safe Return to Work Protocol’ outlines a series of measures including social distancing, hand hygiene, first aid and mental health support for returning workers.
If you are a business owner, manager, or staff member, here are some of the key points from the report presented by the Minister of Business, Heather Humphreys, at Government Buildings.
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1. Induction training
Employers must provide induction training for all workers.
“This training should include, at a minimum, the latest up-to-date advice and guidance on public health: what a worker should do if they develop symptoms of COVID-19; details of how the workplace is organized to address the risk of COVID-19; a summary of the COVID-19 response plan; identification of employer and worker contact points; and any other relevant industry-specific advice. “
2. You need a Covid-19 representative
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Companies must designate at least one Covid-19 man or woman. Your job is to ensure that all “COVID-19 measures are strictly followed at your workplace.”
“The person (s) taking the role must receive the necessary training and have a structured framework to follow within the organization to be effective in preventing the spread of the virus.”
3. Disinfection and protection equipment.
The protocol says employers must provide personal protective equipment and protective clothing to workers in accordance with Covid-19’s identified exposure risks and in accordance with public health councils.
But the good news for companies is that there is Government plans and grants to help implement the measures.
There are already many products on the market to promote proper hand hygiene with Irish companies like SkyTrading.ie that sell automatic disinfectant dispensers; These products are likely to become a necessity for companies for the foreseeable future.
However, Minister Humphreys emphasized that aspects of the document “will vary from one workplace to another.”
She said: “What is practical in a small shop will be different from what is needed in a large manufacturing factory.
“It is up to each sector to observe these protocols and make their own decision on how the protocols will work.
“When it comes to restaurants, pubs and cafes, it is difficult for them, but this document gives them the basis to start forming their own protocols.”
4. No handshaking or sharing stationery
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One of the most obvious measures, but according to current social distancing guidelines, handshakes are not allowed.
And workers should be told not to “share objects that touch their mouths, for example, bottles or cups,” which will likely include stationery, etc.
5. Survey of workers
Before employers welcome their employees, they are asked to complete a form at least three days before they return to work.
“This form should seek confirmation that the worker, to the best of his or her knowledge, has no symptoms of COVID-19 and should also confirm that the worker is not self-isolating or waiting for the results of a COVID-19 test.”
You can read the full details of the ‘Return to Work Safely Protocol’ here.
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