As we are all carefully watching the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation, Swift HR Solutions is actively taking steps to ensure the safety of our team and the continuity of our operations. We will continue to be your HR resource throughout this challenging period.
The novel Coronavirus COVID-19 has spread very rapidly worldwide and is the cause of large number of deaths. Many countries have insufficient capacity for testing. At the same time, many people are infectious before they show symptoms. Therefore it is likely that communities have a large number of people with undetected COVID-19. This is a risk for your team members, their families, and your community.
According to the research, physical distancing is the most effective method to slow down and halt the spread of COVID-19. We are referring to “physical distancing” versus “social distancing” because we believe it is more apt and because we believe that we all need social contact now more than ever . . . at a distance.
Given the serious threat this virus poses to our vulnerable population and healthcare systems, we recommend that all companies immediately close down offices. This will help lessen the risk for your team, their families, and your community. Even if the number of cases in your community is low, it is vital to take action early due to the rapid spread of the virus.
Here are some resources we hope you will find helpful during this situation:
- The Employment Security Department has a helpful website about emergency rules during the coronavirus crisis, including FAQs and a handy side-by-side comparison of current law versus emergency law. If you reduce hours or shut down, impacted employees are eligible to receive Unemployment benefits under the COVID-19 emergency rules. You do not have to lay someone off in order for them to collect Unemployment benefits.
- Karen Kalzer at Helsell Fetterman has a blog about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which is effective April 2 - December 31, 2020.
- The DOL has issued resources around preparing workplaces for Coronavirus, and Q&As on Coronavirus and FLMA.
- Washington counties are eligible for disaster loans through the Small Business Administration.
- Alliant Benefit Services has a good summary of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
- Here is a great blog about how to work successfully from home from well-respected Executive Coach and Trainer Valerie Grubb.
- Law firms are offering free webinars about how to cope with the Coronavirus crisis and have crisis update pages. Check www.dwt.com and www.dorsey.com for a couple of the best.
- Remind your employees of the resources that your Employee Assistance Plan offers. Wellspring offered a great webinar on navigating these trying times with resilience.
- Remind your employees if your medical plan has a virtual medical care option. Most clinics and doctors are now also requesting advanced warning if you have symptoms of the coronavirus before you visit.
We at Swift HR Solutions are here to help you and your organization navigate through this difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Stay safe and healthy out there!
