Stephen Morris, an official with the U.S. Small Business Administration, says there are several steps businesses can take to prepare for flu season. These include:

Identifying a workplace coordinator who can oversee all flu-related issues, including reaching out to local health officials or implementing work protocols during a flu outbreak.
Re-examining leave and telework policies. Managers and employees alike should be up-to-date on policies such as paid sick leave and telecommuting. Workers with sick children or children home during school closures may still be able to contribute if a telework system is in place. Morris also calls for ensuring nonpunitive, flexible policies are in place to help employees affected by flu season.
Identify essential employees and essential business functions, and have an emergency communication plan ready to go. "Make plans to maintain communication and ensure clear work direction with critical personnel and vendors (and even customers) in the event that the supply chain is broken or other unpredictable disruptions occur," Morris says.
Post signs about flu prevention or host a flu shot clinic. In addition, Morris says, employers should educate workers on the company's flu and pandemic plans.
Prepare business continuity plans. "Absenteeism or other workplace changes need to be addressed early on so you can maintain business operations," Morris says, adding that the Small Business Administration website offers tips and resources for businesses.

Stay home!

Instant Insights /

How employers can fight the flu

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