How to deal with swine flu in your business

As we go to print we are on the verge of a pandemic. What are the implications for your business and what business continuity plans do you have in place should the worst happen?

Consider how you will limit the damage and ensure your business continues if:

• a large amount of your workforce are absent
• the work place needs to close for a temporary period

Your risk of an outbreak of swine flu will increase if any employee:

• Has returned from Mexico within the last seven days
• Been in contact with someone who has recently been to Mexico
• Been in contact with someone who has swine flu
• Been in an area where there has been human-to-human transmission of swine flu

The government is issuing all households with a copy of the Department of Health booklet which is available on the www.directgov.uk website under swine flu Information leaflet. This will advise everyone on the best course of action to minimise the risk and any potential spread within your business.

If any of the above risks are present, you should give consideration to the following courses of action as an employer:

• Ask the employee to take a week