By Retail Insider
Workforce innovation company Kronos has released an informative eBook – HR’s Role in Business Continuity — discussing the role human resources plays in maintaining business continuity in the face of emergencies like pandemics, natural disasters, and cyber-attacks. The information is useful for retailers as well as other businesses, and you can download the eBook here.
Amid the COVD-19 pandemic, many HR professionals are seeking ways to support employees during this challenging time. Taking a proactive approach to business continuity is key, just as it would be with other threats that could disrupt business operations.
For example, the eBook describes how HR professionals play a key role in policy creation as well as employee communication. It is critical to effectively coordinate response plans while taking extra safety measures to help employees feel secure during major disruptions.
Further, the eBook discusses how technology can support business continuity amid a public health emergency, laying out a game plan and strategies that include these things:
managing internal communications (including moving beyond email);
tracking employee awareness (including taking precautions);
monitoring compliance with health protocols while identifying risks;
setting up a virtual workplace proactively, as well as during an emergency as it unfolds.
For staff that can work from home, the eBook goes on to explain how to best manage home office protocols that range from having good work habits to handling video conferencing in a family environment. It then discusses the importance of prioritizing employee support and well-being — issues that are critical to keeping employees productive while feeling safe and supported.
For all staff, the discussion includes issues such as mandatory quarantines, tracking certifications for disaster response, and reviewing short-term disability policies.
HR professionals also need to be up-to-date on the latest regulations and standards, be they local or national. The eBook notes that employees rely on HR professionals for this kind of timely and accurate information.
Beyond COVID-19
While COVID-19 is certainly top of mind for us now, the eBook expands beyond pandemics to include what to do in the case of other business continuity challenges such as natural disasters and cyber-attacks.
For natural disasters, the eBook provides information about the importance of communications, financial support for employees, evacuation plans and connecting with disaster relief efforts.
For cyber attacks, there is detailed information about the importance of tracking and keeping records, with strategies to do so effectively.
For more information on HR’s role in maintaining business continuity amid emergency situations, you can download the new Kronos eBook here. For more information on Kronos workforce management solutions, visit www.kronos.ca.
