Now, more than ever, businesses need to put measures in place to protect employees. The recent coronavirus outbreak has had a severe impact on businesses, changing the way they operate and even shutting some companies down temporarily. If this time has taught us anything, it’s that you need to be prepared. Taking steps to protect your employees at times like this will help make your business stronger, more resilient, and helps your employees feel valued too.

Take a look at the following suggestions for measures you can take to protect your employees both now and in the future.

Set your business up for remote working

The recent COVID-19 outbreak has been a key test for businesses in how they can manage remote working. Is your business up to the task? Investing in the right technology so that your teams can work remotely will allow your business to continue to operate even in the event of a lockdown, enabling things to keep moving. Preparing your business for cloud computing will be a big help here to ensure your employees can continue to do their jobs from wherever they are.

Improve health and safety measures in the workplace

The importance of health and safety in the workplace has never been more apparent. Taking appropriate health and safety measures can prevent the spread of sickness in the office, keeping your employees safe. At times when only key workers should be going into work, you can adjust your identity access management to help make sure only authorized personnel can enter the building. Review your health and safety procedures regularly, making sure they’re in-keeping with recent events.

Advise employees on how to protect their wellbeing

As an employer, you have a duty of care to help ensure the health and wellbeing of your employees. It’s a difficult time at the moment, and it’s important that employers provide advice to workers that is useful and will protect both their mental and physical health. Some guidance on maintaining productivity when working from home is a good place to start. Your employees should feel confident that they can consult with management if there are issues, so work hard to create that trusting environment where communications between teams is strong and effective.

Future-proof your business’ finances

Many businesses are struggling to pay their staff right now while things are uncertain or operations have had to cease completely. Having a cushion for your business can help you make it through these difficult times, making sure that your employees are paid even at difficult times. It’s worth discussing risk management with your accountant and financial advisor to help make sure you’re prepared if your business needs to shut down temporarily.

It’s a difficult time for businesses, but it’s important that you consider the health and wellbeing of your employees first and foremost. Taking steps to protect them will help encourage loyalty and lower turnover, helping you to build a strong business. Health and safety should be at the heart of everything you do, so make sure you always put your employees first.