If there is a pandemic what must I do to ensure the workplace is safe?
Workplaces should plan to minimise the health and safety and business risks that could occur during a pandemic. There is no one, single pandemic scenario so response options should be developed for a range of possibilities which enable your business to respond flexibly. The steps you plan to take during a pandemic will determine how well your business recovers.
You need to plan now before a pandemic happens. Your plan should cover the steps your business will take pre-, during and post pandemic. Successful planning will mean involving your staff, your customers and your suppliers.
Good health and safety practices will provide the best response to the risk of workplace infection. Your staff should be involved in identifying and managing potential infection risks. Working with your employees on developing alternative ways of working will enable you to keep your business open for as long as possible, or if you are an essential service, to remain open through a pandemic.
See also information on stopping the spread of flu germs at http://www.moh.govt.nz/influenza-a-h1n1
This advice is given as a guide. Employees and employers are advised to seek their own advice depending upon the circumstances they face.
Date Modified: Monday, 19 December 2011
Disclaimer: The content on this website covers common problems. It will not answer every question
and should not be used as a substitute for legislation or legal advice.State sector employers
and employees may be affected by some differences in the laws that apply to them (e.g. State
Sector Act 1988).The Department of Labour takes no responsibility for the results of any actions taken
on the basis of information on this website, nor for any errors or omissions.
