Dear Staff,
As you know, the Fund is actively monitoring all updates, information and guidance documents regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We will continue to monitor the situation, particularly in light of reports that the virus is now present in New York City and other parts of Westchester County.
In an effort to be responsive to the feedback we are receiving, we have created the following Q and A:
Question: What are the cleaning approaches the Fund is taking as a precautionary measure?
Answer: The Fund has increased our cleaning and sanitizing protocols. We are sanitizing all member-facing locations, including reception areas, desks, classrooms, door handles, chairs and pantry areas. This protocol takes place daily, using approved disinfectant cleaners.
Question: What is our approach to working with staff who have traveled outside of the U.S.?
Answer: We strongly advise that any individuals who may have traveled, should self-monitor and consult with their physicians regarding precautionary measures. We also strongly advise that individuals and families who are self-monitoring should communicate with Staff Claims and Human Resources.
Question: What should I do if my co-worker is coughing and sneezing?
Answer: You can request that your co-worker follow the infection-prevention protocols available on the Fund’s Intranet, website and posted throughout the building. Or, if you feel uncomfortable doing that, you can talk to your supervisor or Human Resources.
Question: What should I do if I think my child (or I) may be sick?
Answer: If your child (our you) is/are experiencing any symptoms of respiratory illness such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, chills and/or fever, contact Teladoc or your primary care physician right away.
Question: What plans are in place, if it becomes necessary to close the Fund?
Answer: The Fund has a business continuity plan, and is actively working on various options to continue providing essential services to our members, in the event the Fund is closed for an extended period of time.
Question: What happens if we have a confirmed case in our Fund?
Answer: As required by law, the Fund will work directly with the proper authorities, including the New York State Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and will follow their directives and restrictions, in order to best ensure the safety of our staff.
Question: What are the Smart Hygiene Practices?
Answer:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, if soap and water are not available.Stay home when you are sick. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue (not your hands), then throw the tissue in the trash.Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Question: Where can I find additional information?
New York State Department of Health Novel Coronavirus Hotline (888) 364-3065
The Fund takes the health and safety of our employees very seriously, and will continue to keep you updated. Should we receive any information that may have an impact on our staff and operations, a notification will be sent out immediately.
Thank you,
Human Resources
From: Human Resources <Human.Resources@1199funds.org> Sent: Friday, March 06, 2020 2:07 PM To: All BPF Users <AllUsers@1199funds.org> Subject: Update on Measures the Funds Are Taking to Protect Staff Members from Coronavirus