Yet, it is already clear that 2021 will not be a walk in the park. For now, The South African government is taking the primary role in vaccine deployment but companies will need to prepare as new information emerges. Companies will need to think strategically about the implications for business operations. And the imperative to be a responsible employer requires companies to think hard about how to support vaccination plans.1. Prepare the employer’s role now.
A global study released by Mercer showed that almost half of all companies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa will offer additional time-off to get the vaccine. However, over 80% of companies feel that employees must use sick leave days to recover from the vaccine’s possible side-effects.The employer’s role in communicating and educating employees about their health and safety cannot be underestimated. Employers should be responsible for issuing reliable information.
•Ensuring other precautions remain in place will be vital for everyone’s safety, such as wearing masks, social distancing and temperature screening employees.7. Put mental health on the agenda.