Prepare for Sickness Season: A Business Checklist

The past few years have taught us the importance of being prepared for sickness season, which typically runs from October to March. This period of colder, inclement weather often coincides with holiday stress, creating a perfect storm for the spread of illness. We now have a blueprint for being better prepared. Here are some simple, proactive steps businesses can take to protect their staff and customers in the coming months.

First, stock up on supplies. It’s wise to have an inventory of essential items like face masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant sprays. And yes, a strategic supply of toilet paper and paper towels can also be a good idea. While we may not experience a sickness season as severe as those in recent years, you can count on the annual cold and flu season to have at least some impact on your business. Being prepared shows you are thinking ahead.

Second, communicate with staff. Openly discuss with your employees how you want them to handle being sick and how they should interact with customers. Consider if some tasks can be conducted from home to minimize contact. Simply making your staff aware of the approaching flu season can help them prepare themselves and their families, which in turn helps your business.

Third, consider flu shots. Each year, pharmacies, clinics, and doctors offer flu shots updated for the latest variants. While the decision to get one is a personal choice, you can support your staff by making them aware of the availability of flu shots and encouraging them to protect their health.

The cold and flu season has been a consistent part of life for generations. We have no excuse not to be prepared. Taking these proactive steps can not only help keep everyone healthier, but it can also be a good communication tool. You can inform customers via an email, your company newsletter, or even with a notice in your business that you and your staff are taking steps to ensure a healthier environment.

Just as you take steps to protect the health of your employees and customers, it is also a responsible choice to protect your company with an appropriate amount of business insurance. Business insurance can help your company survive the unexpected, such as a liability claim, storm damage, theft, or vandalism. It can even protect your income during a covered calamity. Contact us to discuss your business and its specific risks. A business insurance evaluation and price quote is free and comes with no obligation. We look forward to assisting you.