Even after “stay-at-home” orders are lifted, COVID-19 will have a lasting effect on workplaces in terms of health precautions, hygienic cleaning and work mobility, among other things. Employers need to start planning now for changing employee expectations regarding teleworking and the need for policies to protect worker safety at the workplace.

Onboarding laid-off, furloughed or recalled employees exposes employers to potential Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and discrimination claims, or enforcement actions, if carried out incorrectly or thoughtlessly. Employers can look to the Department of Labor (DOL), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance alongside state and local rules to frame some parts of new policies and practices for maintaining a safe workplace that will be required “post-lockdown.”

Have a Plan to Provide a Safe Workplace