In the aftermath of a natural disaster or other serious event, it is of utmost importance for employers and employees to prioritize the health, safety, and security of everyone involved. Before considering the interests of the business or organization, it is crucial to maintain regular contact and communicate in good faith.
In cases where the local council advises building owners to conduct assessments following an emergency, the building should be inspected for any signs of damage, structural weaknesses, and aftershocks. If there is any doubt about the integrity of the building, an expert assessment should be sought before entering. The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and WorkSafe New Zealand's position statement support this approach.
Before re-entering a potentially unsafe workplace, the employer should conduct an external visual inspection and, if necessary, an internal visual inspection. All necessary precautions should be taken, including wearing protective gear, avoiding live services, having a clear exit path, and assuming that any water is contaminated with sewage. If there are any known hazardous materials in the workplace, such as asbestos or silica, professional assistance should be sought before entering.
In the event that an employee is unable to work due to circumstances related to the disaster, the employer and employee should look at their employment agreement to determine if the situation is covered. If not, both parties should discuss in good faith what the time away from work will be classified as. Options for leave and payment include annual holidays, special leave, leave without pay, sick leave for the care of an injured or sick dependant, and advance on wages. The specific option will depend on the circumstances of the disaster.
In conclusion, following a natural disaster or serious event, it is imperative to prioritize the health, safety, and security of everyone involved. Employers and employees should work together to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken when re-entering potentially unsafe workplaces and should discuss in good faith any time away from work.
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