A day doesn't go by now, where the media hasn't reported something relating to a possible bird flu pandemic arising in New Zealand. Raising the subject with people creates interesting conversation, ranging from those who don't want to know to those who have put business ventures on hold, ensured all their personal affairs are in order, quarantine procedures in place, and food and medical/herbal provisions stored.
Personally, we have chosen to listen to the professionals, refamiliarise ourselves with Civil Defence guidelines, and attended to the matters most frequently raised. We see it as a form of insurance, especially for the self employed.
Some experts are suggesting that a human outbreak overseas is almost inevitable - and that it would most likely be accompanied by a high mortality rate.
If the disease was reported to be in NZ it is likely that the Minister of Health would allow local medical officers to make decisions ranging from closing New Zealand's border through to the closure of public facilities (particularly schools) and prohibition of public gatherings.
Apart from this being a reminder to individuals to 'sort out their affairs', this threat is a reminder to all businesses that they should have a basic emergency plan in place and that as an employer, you have a responsibility to communicate such plans amongst employees.
As well as the implication for running businesses, employers need to be aware of their responsibilities in terms of health and safety legislation. Under the Health and Safety in Employment Act you must seek to minimise significant hazards, which does include situations such as an outbreak of avian flu.
Your organisation will gain the confidence of its employees if you are seen to be monitoring updates as they occur - and informing your employees accordingly. Nominate somebody within your business to keep up to speed with the information released by the government.
For key employees whose ongoing participation may be vital to the business, it may be worthwhile reviewing work-from-home arrangements.
To inspire confidence in employees ensure you are adequately stocked up on hygienic cleaning supplies - particularly products which allow you to guarantee hygienic workstations and public areas within workplaces. Such products are likely to be in short supply in the event of an outbreak, so there is some merit in ensuring that items are purchased now.
The Ministry of Health is advising businesses to plan for up to 50% staff absences over a two week period, with reduced levels for a few weeks either side of this, for up to 8 weeks. Absences could be due to personal illness, caring for children or elderly family members (even if not infected), or staff simply not wishing to come to work for fear of infection (which could very well raise some employment issues).
Your forward planning should include consideration for the possibility of this level of absenteeism, and most definitely ensuring employment agreements are in place and comply with legislation, which includes keeping up to date personnel records.
Transport and freight may be significantly affected as a consequence of any outbreak. As part of your forward planning, consider how your organisation would be specifically affected by disruption to freight and transport (either internationally or domestically).
More very useful information can be found on the Ministry of Health's website
www.moh.govt.nz. and for businesses, we strongly urge you to visit the Ministry of Economic Development's website:
www.med.govt.nz. If you are a member of a business association you may find they also provide useful guidelines.
December 2005
All information in this article is to the best of the author's knowledge true and accurate. No liability is assumed by the author for any losses suffered by any person relying directly or indirectly upon this material. It is recommended that you should consult a senior representative of Rotherhams before acting upon any information provided in this article.
