As the world attempts to deal with this novel COVID-19 pandemic, businesses need to be equally as vigilant when it comes to ensuring workplace safety. In response to these unprecedented challenges, every business should ensure that it has a COVID-19 Workplace Policy in place that dictates exactly how the workplace will operate during such a time. The key to successfully managing this is through PROPER AND THOROUGH DUE DILIGENCE.
WHY IS A COVID-19 HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY CRUCIAL FOR YOU BUSINESS?
In this unprecedented COVID-19 landscape, with worldwide infections surpassing over ONE MILLION and growing, does your business have the proper COVID-19 measures in place to defend against a third-party lawsuit or workplace health and safety prosecution?
Here are some key advantages to having a well-drafted and implemented COVID-19 Due Diligence Workplace Policy:
MINIMIZE INSURANCE PREMIUMS AND LIABILITY:
In the event your liability insurer is forced to pay out on a third-party lawsuit due to your company’s negligence with regard to a COVID-19 related illness or death connected to your premises, your insurance premiums will likely increase. Worse, if your liability insurer will not cover such a claim, your business will be fully exposed to defending such litigation and paying out potential lawsuits while incurring significant legal expenses.
Likewise, your employees who suffer workplace-related illnesses due to COVID-19 may have a claim through the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB), which your business pays into. This can increase your WSIB premiums drastically.
Having a comprehensive and well implemented COVID-19 Health and Safety Policy in place will mitigate such risks and save you significant costs by being proactive.
AVOID HEFTY FINES:
Did you know that Corporations can be liable up to $1,500,000.00 for Occupational Health and Safety breaches? This can occur if your employees are harmed due to your company’s failure to ensure that the workplace was reasonably safe.
Accidents and injuries happen. In the event your business is facing scrutiny by the regulator, having a comprehensive and well implemented COVID-19 Health & Safety Policy is critical for a good defence which can save your company significant exposure.
RECEIVE A CUSTOM LEGAL CONSULT:
Whether your company is in retail, real estate, or any other industry, we understand that your business functions will require custom tailored solutions to suit your needs. We understand that there is no such thing as a “one size fits all approach”. That is why we will take the time to understand your needs and recommend COVID-19 policies, procedures and legal advice to ensure that you can focus on your craft while being equipped to successfully navigate the liabilities and challenges that COVID-19 presents.
Feel free to contact lhennick@hennicklaw.com to customize a Covid Policy that’s right for your business.
