EE returning to the ‘New Normal’
In late May, we started a phased plan to bring our people back to work, ensuring compliance with the government guidance on COVID-secure safety measures.
With the gradual relaxation of government controls and thanks to our valued clientele, we have seen a increase in commercial activity throughout May and June. It is encouraging to see clients from all sectors, including social housing, start to return to some for of normality.
During June we have worked throughout to ensure our offices and on site working environments are COVID-secure. Our offices have undergone ‘deep cleaning’ and we have implemented control measures to ensure social distancing and the safety of returning colleagues, which include; one-way systems, restrictions on room occupancy, enhanced cleaning regimes and staggered arrival, departure and break times.
Whilst the majority of our operational teams have transitioned superbly to working from home, we have gradually built up our Head Office presence on a rota’d basis between directors and senior management and are now ready for a staged re-occupation during July.
In terms of our return to operational on-site service delivery, we have designed and implemented a thorough return to work process for all employees coming back into the business. This involves every employee completing:
- COVID related Health screening so we can understand and protect vulnerable persons
- Mental health support
- On-line Covid-19 policy and procedure training
- Issue of additional PPE and hygiene packs
Much of this will take the form of tailored e-learning courses delivered through our bespoke developed learner management system giving each individual an in depth knowledge of the new policies and procedures relating to their role and in the impact of the new Covid-19 control measures. The system also provides us with the means to monitor compliance in this area in much the same way it does for our clients with respect to Asbestos and H&S training.
Our comprehensive Covid-19 related policies, procedures and risk assessments, including a specific social distancing review, are compliant with Government/PHE guidance and the CLC guidance documents.
Our Account and Project Managers are issuing these to clients prior to any works and as part of our ongoing communications with customers. In addition we are requesting details on client and specific site rules as these will often take precedent or influence the application of our own control measures.
Like many businesses across the country we continue to adapt to new ways of working and are optimistic about the immediate future. We would like to thank all our colleagues and customers for their ongoing support and commitment.