Managing your workplace during COVID-19

April 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously disrupted lives across the globe. Authorities are scrambling to implement measures to try to dampen and curtail the spread of the virus. Given the scale of the disruption brought about by the pandemic, business communities are being impacted. At such a time, it is imperative that society works together to row in the same direction and to try to flatten the curve as swiftly as possible. Such a concerted and coordinated course of action will hasten our return to normality (or at least a new normal).

With the aim of supporting the local business community, the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has worked on “An employer’s guide on managing your workplace during COVID-19”. This is intended to serve as a reference guide for the local business community. It has been developed based on a similar document published by the International Labour Organisation Bureau for Employers’ Activities (ILO-ACT/EMP). This document contains resources and guides of the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), governments, and employers and business membership organisations (EBMOs) referred to in the ILO’s publication.

The guide has been specifically adapted and customised for the local business community in Seychelles. It references the relevant laws, regulations, and practices in Seychelles, particularly the:

  • Employment Act 1995 and Employment (Conditions of Employment Regulations) 1991;
  • Occupational and Safety Decree 1978;
  • the Employment (Coronavirus Special Leave) (Temporary Measures) Regulations, 2020; and
  • latest directives and guidelines issued by the Government of Seychelles.

The guide covers the following elements:

  • How employers can protect their employers and their workplace;
  • An employer’s responsibilities;
  • Consideration of working from home as an option;
  • Changing operational levels;
  • Considerations in the worst case of having to shut down;
  • How to avoid discrimination claims and protect the privacy of workers; and
  • Useful resources and contacts.

Read the guide below or by clicking here.

Should you require any further clarifications or have any enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us via our Contact page.