Healix, the global provider of travel risk management and international medical, security and travel assistance services, has launched a unique online tool, COVID Work Safe, as many employees return to the workplace following the easing of restrictions across the UK this week. The tool supports businesses in identifying employees who will be most at risk from the virus, as well as providing guidance on additional measures that can be implemented to keep them safe. 

 

In line with the final relaxing of restrictions in England, and the subsequent return to the workplace, the key challenge for employers is having the right tools to manage the duty of care requirement. Healix’s new COVID Work Safe tool has been designed to analyse the relevant medical history of each employee and identify those who may be at increased risk, including those with certain underlying health conditions who are particularly vulnerable and require extra support. 

 

Based on a confidential, user-friendly medical questionnaire, employees will receive an instantly available assessment which they can download, along with advice and guidance on steps they can take to mitigate any risks on returning to the workplace. A dedicated portal also provides employers with access to a report detailing assessment outcomes for all employees based on a traffic light system.  

 

The risk assessments are carried out with complete confidentiality for the employee’s personal medical information, with the tool producing an objective assessment of their vulnerability, in turn enabling employers to take appropriate action to ensure their safety in returning to the workplace.  

 

Adrian Hyzler, Chief Medical Officer, comments: 

“Restrictions are now lifting, but it’s likely that many people will be feeling anxious about the return to commuting and office life. Businesses need to ensure that all employees are as safe as possible by implementing additional measures where necessary. Identifying individual employees who may be at increased risk due to medical vulnerabilities will help them do just that and that’s exactly why we’ve developed COVID Work Safe.  

 

“Through our tool, employers can access a report detailing the assessment outcomes for employees, which in turn will allow them to take appropriate action, or determine if other risk assessments and measures need to be put in place.  

“Most importantly, confidentiality is maintained. While the employer can use the report to implement the correct measure to keep individuals safe, they will not have access to any of the medical information submitted by an employee in order for the report to be created. 

 

“Ultimately, COVID Work Safe will help reassure staff who may be nervous of returning after being furloughed or working from home for several months, as well as providing employers with peace of mind that they are doing the right thing for their workforce.”