Employers urged to prepare swine flu policy

Companies are being urged to draw up a temporary employment policy as Britain braces itself for a possible swine flu pandemic.

Human Resources firm Jaluch warns the feared pandemic could send staffing issues into chaos without proper management.

Issues such as sickness absence, emergency leave, home working and work-related travel should all be made clear in the temporary policy, says Helen Clarke, Managing Director of Jaluch.

She added: ìBusinesses shouldnít underestimate the potential impact swine flu could have. If it takes hold in the UK workforces could be reduced to a minimum due to staff sickness or emergency leave to care for dependents, public transport could be effected making getting to work difficult and external meetings may have to be cancelled to minimise risk.

ìAt the very least all companies should have a list of emergency contact details for staff and medical contacts should staff become ill.

ìStaff need to know how long to stay off if they suspect they have flu, what periods of sickness or emergency leave will be paid and what payment would be for those working part time from home as they recover.

ìIf the whole company or office building also has to close, there should be procedures in place to let clients know.î
Swine flu is a respiratory disease with symptoms including a fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue. The World Health Organisation has warned of a possible global pandemic and governments have been warned to mobilise their flu pandemic plans.

Helen added: ìHaving a clear policy in place in case of a major outbreak could save a lot of stress and possible legal fees later.î