In anticipation of a resurgence of the H1N1 (“Swine”) flu, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued recommendations and strategies for employers to follow in order to minimize any potential outbreak. The Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to the 2009-2010 Influenza Season outlines steps employers should take in advance of the flu season, strategies to employ in the event an outbreak becomes severe, and guidelines to use in determining when an employee who is absent from work with the flu should return to the job.

Recommendations include reviewing or establishing a flexible influenza pandemic plan; having an understanding of the organization’s normal seasonal absenteeism rate; instituting more flexible sick-leave and telecommuting policies, especially in the event of school or childcare closings; encouraging seasonal flu vaccinations as well as the H1N1 vaccination when it becomes available; permitting higher-risk employees to work from home; and actively screening employees who report to work if the severity of the outbreak increases. The guidance also suggests that organizations assess their essential business functions to determine the minimum level of staffing needed to remain operational, and plan accordingly.

For more information on preparing the workplace for a flu outbreak, see Littler’s ASAP:
Swine Flu: Preparing the Workplace for a Pandemic  by: Steve McCown and
Donald W. Benson.