There are approximately 880,000 positive cases of COVID-19 in the United States alone, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. As the pandemic has put most of the country on lockdown, essential workers must still show up to their jobs. Some companies have taken a proactive action to help employees thrive in this crisis.

Amazon, for example, said that it has ramped cleaning efforts and social distancing. In addition, the company has changed its policy to allow unlimited unpaid sick leave. However, there is more that needs to be done to protect essential workers during this pandemic.

Calls For Aggressive Action

In the beginning of April, The National Safety Council has already called upon companies for an aggressive action regarding the safety of their workers. It’s not just because they are at high risk of being exposed to COVID-19, but many essential workers are paid the minimum wage. This reduces their chances of gaining access to healthcare services when they get sick. According to FVF Law, OSHA requirements will vary depending on the industry that the business is in. Understanding such rules and regulations in this time of a pandemic requires attention from a workplace injury lawyer.

Raising The Alarm

According to the NSC, around 70% of their member companies cannot work remotely since most of them are considered as essential workers. They further stated that the responsibility of the safety of their workers rests solely on the shoulders of the employers. Essential workers, including those who work in markets, delivery, and garbage collecting are feeling the impact of the pandemic. Since the lockdown has changed the workplace environment, it is up to NSC and their partner employers to come up with additional safety measures that will address the potential threat of the ongoing lockdown to their workers and customers alike.

Safety Recommendations For Essential Workers 

As leaders, shifting schedules may help lessen the impact on the workforce while ensuring that they are still catering to their customers. Employees still working during the pandemic claim that proper safety measures are not being addressed. And some are even complaining about wrongful dismissal due to these situations during these tough times. A report by the Boston Globe says that GameStop employees were reportedly told to cover their hands and arms with plastic bags.

Hygiene practices, such as providing workers with hand sanitizers, should be implemented at all costs, including maintaining physical distancing as recommended by the CDC. Disinfection and cleaning must be done on high-traffic areas and equipment that are handled by several people.

These are trying times and it is only fair that many will feel frustrated about their current situation. The Shelter-in-Place order may grate on the public’s patience, but those who fall under the essential workers category do not have the luxury to remain at home. Their work is critical to keep the country functioning. With that being said, NSC has seen it fit to call upon business leaders to help their workers remain safe in the midst of the pandemic, while providing essential care to others.