Where is everyone?

Breaking sad news

I have had the unenviable task of breaking sad news to next of kin that an employee has passed away.  I have also had to inform employees that their relatives have passed away, or have been injured, or have been taken to hospital.  Do you know how to contact next of kin? If your employees are field workers how do you know that they have arrived safely or returned safely?

What processes do you have in place?

This weekend having heard about the death of Bin Laden, my thoughts turned to people who have lost those close to them – we see the reminders of 9/11, the recent disasters in Japan and other parts of the world.  They are major disasters, but in business we also need to be prepared for tragedy that affects fewer people. It is people in the health services like doctors, consultants, nurses, or police personnel, or those in the forces, or religious personnel, or volunteers, and many others who bring news of tragedy to next of kin.  Business owners, managers and HR people must also be aware that they may have to be the bearer of bad and sad news.

• What processes are in place should news need to be relayed?
• Who has access to personal information like next of kin details?
• How do you know the details are up to date?
• Where are your employees at any given time during working hours?

Security conscious

We should be security conscious – but we don’t need to go overboard.  However, at good business practice means that some guidelines are necessary for employees and managers if an unfortunate tragedy occurs.

• Records should be kept up to date.
• Personal details should be kept secure.
• A process is needed so employees know who to contact in times of trouble.
• A risk assessment is required for lone workers.
• Managers need to be trained.

If you need help then contact Embrace HR.

E: hr.support@embracehr.co.uk

T: 07767 308 717

Embrace HR supports business without their own HR support in the Northern Home Counties such as Buckinghamshire.