Organisations across all key industries are currently grappling with a range of supply chain risk and business continuity issues as the coronavirus continues to make headlines. 

This includes devising a variety of contingency plans that can be activated in the event that a workforce or team needs to work offsite at very short notice. These plans may involve working from home, or splitting teams so only one half is on site at any time.

Managing issues around employee travel - including international and domestic travel for work, as well as for personal holidays - is also under the spotlight with businesses taking a variety of approaches.

While a 14-day self-quarantine requirement is in place for everyone returning from known ‘hot spots’, some organisations have taken the further step of halting all non-essential international travel. Others are taking an ‘is it business critical?’ approach, while some are leaving it in the hands of employees to decide whether to continue with their business travel and personal leave holiday plans.

For employees due to fly in for events and key meetings, some businesses are looking instead to webinar and video conferencing options - or requiring their flights not arrive via hot spot areas.

Governance Institute of Australia CEO Megan Motto said while a variety of approaches are being taken, it is clear that business is currently working hard to ensure streamlined operations during the current state of flux.

“A variety of contingency plans and policies are currently either being devised - or enacted - across Australia which will help ensure organisations and their employees are best placed to continue to work effectively - and respond as required - as they navigate this current challenge,” Ms Motto said.  

Communicating these business continuity plans, revised policies and other developments to both an organisation’s board and employees is another key consideration for businesses.

“Internal communications - at this time in particular - should be factual and consistent in order to ensure maximum effectiveness and impact,” Ms Motto said.

Potential privacy and employment law issues should also be considered by employers implementing new policies concerning employee travel declarations and other related requirements.

And while meetings and events may be going more high tech as organisations respond to the changing business landscape, a back to basics - soap and water - approach to hygiene remains the overwhelming message for maximising basic workplace health and safety.

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