The COVID-19 pandemic is still raging on, but many companies have to get back to some semblance of normal to stay in business. If you’re in this situation, you’re likely longing for the days when mitigating risk through background screening was your biggest concern.

Rightfully so, you’re likely very nervous if you need to bring your team back together in a shared physical location. However, there’s plenty of steps you can take to help minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission, so your team can work together safely. Here’s some advice to help you settle into the — temporary — new normal.

Four Ways to Protect Your Workforce During the Pandemic

Allow Employees to Work Remotely as Long as Possible

If your team can work from home, it’s likely best to continue this situation for the time being. Sure, people might be going a bit stir crazy and miss the energy of onsite collaboration, but safety should always be your first priority. The last thing you want is for an employee to get the virus at work, so as long as business disruptions have been minimal, try to keep people at home.

Adjust Your Office to the New Normal

Many companies are unable to properly function in a remote setting. If this is the reality for your business, not returning to the office isn’t an option. In this case, you’ll need to create a pandemic-friendly office space.

This might involve moving desks at least six feet apart, making one-way hallways, staggering work schedules, and taking employees’ temperature upon arrival to work. Some of these measures might seem extreme, but no precautions are too great when lives are on the line.

Create a Crisis Plan

No matter how careful your team is, it’s very possible someone will get COVID-19. In this case, you need to have a plan in place to help reduce the spread. For example, you might deep clean the office and have all exposed employees stay home for two weeks.

It’s important to have this figured out before employees go back to work, so you can spring into immediate action if needed.

Request Employee Feedback

No doubt, your team is at least a little nervous about returning to work. Share your reopening plans with them to ease their anxiety and get additional feedback. They might have ideas you didn’t think of that will further increase workplace safety during this trying time. Getting your team involved will also show them you care about them and want them to feel safe.

You have a lot on your plate right now, so delegate your back office services to ECS. We’re here to provide much-needed support to employers and recruiters, because running a business during a pandemic isn’t easy. Get in touch today to find out what we can do for you!