Navigating mask mandates, employee concerns, and reopening protocols can be intimidating for any business owner. People have different views when it comes to how reopening should be implemented, so trying to please everyone is an uphill battle. The most important thing to keep in mind is the health and safety of your people. Addressing issues with compassion and empathy is the best way to handle concerns regarding new guidelines.
Change can be challenging, over the last few months, we have all experienced enough change to last 10 years! So, as you begin to welcome your employees back into the office, consider where their mental health might be with the fear surrounding the virus. How can you ease their anxiety and help them through this challenging time?
Start your reopening process by asking yourself a few questions…
Who is required to wear masks? When should they be worn? Is an employee allowed to remove their mask when they are in their office, at their desk, or in a cubicle? Can employees remove their masks to speak on the phone? Be sure to make the guidelines clear so everyone understands how their contribution will slow the spread.
Will your business provide masks to all employees? Some state and local governments are requiring employers to provide masks. Even if it is not required, it is still encouraged to offer masks to those employees who may not have one or may forget their mask at home. When you provide masks, you are not only ensuring everyone has access to PPE, but you are also ensuring your message is consistent. You want to ensure the safety of your employees, and providing PPE protection aligns with that.
Furthermore, something to consider, are you requiring all visitors, whether they are a client, customer, or other members of the public to wear a mask when on company property? This might further support your greater message of keeping your company safe.
Be sure to train your employees on the proper ways to wear a mask. The CDC guidelines require people to wash their hands prior to putting their mask on, place the covering over the nose and mouth and secure it under the chin. In order to effectively limit the spread of germs, you must ensure your employees know how to wear their protection. Remember, if you require your employees to wear face masks, you must train them on how to use them.
What about those who resist wearing a mask? First, consider why they are resisting the use of a face mask. Do they have health issues that may make wearing a mask unsafe? Do they have asthma, or a trauma-related reason? Think creatively on how to support that employee through these new guidelines. Try offering a protective device that is not a mask, like a face shield. You could also give them the option to work isolated from others, or opt for an extended period of leave.
The most important thing to consider when reopening your business is the health and safety of your employees. As we all continue to navigate these new guidelines, work to think creatively about solutions, and come at every potential issue with compassion and empathy in mind.