My Employer Isn’t Following COVID-19 Safety Rules. What Should I Do?
Over the past year, COVID-19 has reshaped life across the globe, but especially in the workplace. Social distancing. Masks. Temperature checks.
Some companies have been able to adapt to the new normal through staggered shifts, adding panels between socially distanced desks, and opting for park meet-ups instead of traditional indoor meetings.
But for many employees, the transition has been rocky or, at worst, nonexistent.
One of the top questions we see across thousands who reach out to Empower Work: “My employer isn’t following safety rules. What do I do?”
It’s stressful, and understandably so. When an employer, manager, or coworker isn’t following recommendations, it can feel scary and overwhelming to consider going into work.
Here are some examples of what workers have shared with us:
“I voiced my concern about ppl not wearing masks at work. First I told coworkers to their face reminding them of PPE. No change. Then I reported to boss. He was most unhappy with me and said I was stirring the pot. He said he'd look into it but did not look favorable upon ppl "like me". I told him I was just trying to keep ppl safe and following CDC guidelines. He said plenty of others in line waiting for a job.”
“Terribly. I can't sleep well. No one gives a crap about my health and that I have prior conditions."
"I am working in a hostile and toxic work environment, my therapist even says what my boss is doing is abuse. I can't take it anymore. They pressure me to go in-person when I told them I don't feel comfortable because of COVID and they aren't covering my health insurance. I feel stuck because I don't want to be unemployed again."
"I am afraid right now. I am afraid to answer the phone when he calls, I am being pressured to be in-person, and they don't cover my healthcare and I told them I don't feel safe to go in-person, and he called me "insubordinate", I just don't know what to do."
As these stories demonstrate, the challenges are widespread.
If you’re experiencing something similar in your workplace, know that what you’re going through is all too common—and not okay.
Here Are The Top 4 Challenges We’re Seeing From Workers
Your employer hasn’t implemented COVID-19 safety guidelines
In some workplaces, the problem may be the lack of safety measures. Unfortunately, this situation is happening across the country, with local governments forming task forces to crack down on noncompliant businesses.
It can be especially frustrating when your own employer puts you and your coworkers in danger by failing to implement proper safety guidelines, whether because of neglect, financial motivations, or politics. It’s okay to feel scared. In addition to your own wellbeing, it’s only natural for you to worry about the members of your household.
The rules are confusing
COVID-19 safety rules have changed over the past year. So it’s understandable to feel confused or uncertain.
Differences between state and local protocols, long and complicated guidelines, and conflicting directions from your superiors can make navigating the workplace amid the pandemic a unique challenge.
The rules make your work harder
Work was already stressful before the pandemic. Now, in addition to getting your work done, you have to follow the new rules to keep yourself and others safe.
Maybe you’ve spoken up about COVID safety in the workplace and been mistreated for it.
Whether it’s communicating through a mask, not being able to collaborate as effectively with your coworkers, or dealing with customers who choose not to comply with safety measures, you may feel like you’re being asked to work extra hard or put yourself at risk.
Your don’t have the support you need
In hard times in the workplace, the slightest recognition from management can go a long way—even an acknowledgement that they know things are difficult and you’re doing the best you can. When that support doesn’t come, you can feel alone and undervalued.
Support also means communication and training, and in some industries, requirements for PPE. Maybe you’re lucky enough to have all the resources you need to follow COVID-19 safety rules in your workplace. But what if no one has shown you how to properly use them?
Employees in many different fields are struggling with safety guidelines in the workplace right now. If you feel in need of support and direction, you’re not alone.
The important thing to remember is that you have options. If your employer is not doing their part to maintain a safe workplace, here are some steps you can take:
Prioritizing your safety in a workplace that doesn’t follow COVID-19 safety guidelines
Stay informed. Getting your information from reliable sources is key. COVID-19 safety guidelines may vary by state, city, and industry, but you can stay up to date by following local news outlets and turning to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), or your state workforce commission for resources.
Connect with others in your industry. Talking to people in your industry can help you understand how other workplaces are handling COVID-19.
Protect yourself. Regardless of your workplace’s safety measures, you shouldn’t feel restricted from protecting yourself. Wear a mask, practice social distancing, and wash your hands regularly, even if your employer or coworkers don’t.
Assess your options. Not everyone has the luxury of leaving their job, but if you are sincerely worried about your safety, you may want to assess your options and consider looking for another job.
At the end of the day, you should feel safe, healthy, and supported in your workplace.
If you’re not, and you feel like a chat would help, Empower Work is just a text away.
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If you’re having trouble navigating COVID-19 safety at work, reach out. Text us at (510-674-1414). We’re here to listen, support, and talk through options.
