Health & Safety

PLANNING AGAIN…

It only seems a couple of weeks ago that we were happily watching Covid-19 case numbers drop. Mask-wearing compliance was dropping off, people were venturing out to the movies, concerts and nightclubs. How quickly things change.

Covid-19 numbers are on the rise – quickly. So many people also have the flu, some of them have been sick for two weeks. There are gastric bugs and the usual winter colds.

This is a good time to review how things went last year, with wider work issues and with the impacts of Covid-19 and the flu. Some of the things to consider will include: • How did you know what was happening? Was one person in the team delegated with keeping abreast of the information, reviewing it, deciding what was relevant, and sharing it with those who needed to know? • How did you remain in contact with your team? How did you keep them informed, how did you maintain morale and the team ethos? • How well prepared were you with the resources you needed? • How did you communicate with your customers?

I would strongly recommend putting a business continuity plan in place to accommodate workers on sick leave. In my small workplace, we have had 20% of the team off sick already, and it’s only just starting. This may or may not include working from home, or a hybrid structure, covering absent workers, and ensuring that workers are supported.

Think about their pay or if they need support when sick. Equally importantly, think about the workers who are carrying the load for those off sick. They are doing their own jobs and more.

Recently, a release from Ashley Bloomfield said that the term ‘fully vaccinated’ has been replaced with up to date with your vaccinations. (This includes boosters. Boosters may or may not be required depending on your workplace.)

Also, the government has reduced the reinfection period from three months to 29 days. This could have a significant impact on your workers and workplace if they are household contacts.

Reviewing, planning and preparation are the keys to making uncertainty less traumatic. It’s sensible to start early.

23031 DANI1 TRUCKING AD.pdf 27/5/10 3:12:58 PM

How can Safewise help?

We work with organisations that need more health and safety knowledge or more time to address these issues than they have in-house. We also have free Covid19 resources available.

For more information, check the website, safewise.co.nz Tracey Murphy is the owner and director of Safewise Ltd, a health and safety consultancy. She has more than 12 years’ experience working with organisations from many different industries. Tracey holds a diploma in health and safety management and a graduate diploma in occupational safety and health. She is a professional member of the New Zealand Institute of Safety Management and is on the HASANZ register.

Danielle L. Beston

Barrister At Law

Transport Specialist Work Licences Nationwide Road User Charges

Log Book & Driving Hours

Contributor to New Zealand Trucking ‘LegalLines’ Column

Telephone: (09) 985 5609 mobile: 021 326 642 danielle.beston@trafficlawyerauckland.co.nz