In order to ensure we provide a sensible and proportionate response, we have established a dedicated central team to monitor the global situation and maintain a global response plan. The initial phase of this plan consists of providing instructions and guidelines for country leadership teams, and ensuring all colleagues around the world receive thorough awareness briefings. All information is being assessed on an ongoing basis to ensure that our people are always protected and are also able to inform our customers on new developments as they happen.
In every country, our management teams, health and safety, and HR managers are continuously monitoring local government guidance and recommendations from WHO and CDC.
In a country with active outbreaks we are carrying out risk assessments and implementing risk control measures to ensure colleague exposure to infection risks is reduced, helping to protect them and also customers with whom they come into contact. These controls may include:
- Increased supply and use of PPE, particularly N95 and FFP3 face masks.
- The potential introduction of travel bans.
- Possible restrictions or postponement of visitors from affected areas.
- Quarantining colleagues who present symptoms after travel into infected areas or exposure to infected persons.
In countries with zero or a small number of isolated cases, we will continue to carry out routine work activities, following standard safe working practices, to include:
- Practicing regular, good hand hygiene using soap and water, ensuring hands are thoroughly dried and applying an alcohol-based hand sanitiser solution - particular importance when travelling or working in heavily populated areas.
- Use of all forms of fit-for-purpose, undamaged PPE, specified and provided for the work they are required to perform.
- Ensuring cuts and abrasions are kept clean, treated and covered with waterproof dressings.