In the post-COVID world, it is imperative that your law office is a safe and healthy place.
That goes beyond just putting some wet wipes on the front desk. It requires staff training, regulatory compliance, and constant vigilance.
“Many businesses have adapted to the reality of the pandemic with sanitizer stations, social distancing measures and temperature checks,” writes Emily Heaslip in this article for the US Chamber of Commerce. “But as you bring on new employees or return more team members to the office, your office safety protocols should be adjusted accordingly.”
Below are 3 COVID safety strategies your firm might want to consider.
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3 COVID Safety Strategies for Your Law Firm
1. Short-term solutions. In addition to complying with state and local requirements, the US Chamber recommends updating your office safety training to include: up-to-date CDC and OSHA workplace safety protocols; complete state-mandated training elements; any recent state-specific workplace safety protocols; employer workplace safety policies and practices. “Keep in mind that state training requirements vary widely,” writes Heaslip. “Each of the 16 states that require training has distinct content mandates. You may also need to make arrangements to have office safety training hosted online so that remote workers are onboarded before returning to the office. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences released a training tool that could prove useful in designing your own office safety training. It’s a good place to start!”
2. Long-term solutions. Office safety is mandated by law. Generally speaking, your office safety training should cover: office ergonomics; fire safety; workplace violence prevention; employee health resources; environmental safety; equipment safety; online safety and cybersecurity. “The key to any office safety training you offer is making it relevant and interesting so that employees take away new knowledge,” writes Heaslip. “Create a top ten checklist of the most important things to remember about safety in your workplace. Use a few different methods, such as videos, checklists and quizzes to make the information stick.”
3. Bring in an expert. “The National Safety Council is a nonprofit that provides tons of online training in topics like first aid, emergency preparedness and even defensive driving. Once you become a member, you can access courses designed for your specific industry or to meet specific OSHA requirements. Prices are, on average, between $25 and $50 per person. Check with your local business council to see if they have anyone in the area who can provide office safety training, too.” Other options: J.J. Keller, Safety Skills, Pryor Learning, American Safety Council.
Source: US Chamber of Commerce
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