NSW state insurer icare has prepared a guide to help employers plan for a safe return to the workplace as social distancing measures are eased in the state.

The COVID-19 Recovery Employer Toolkit offers practical steps to identify the operational areas and protective strategies that businesses can adopt to ensure employee wellbeing and safety.

“Following this unprecedented period of quarantine and social isolation, safely mobilising a sustainable workforce is critical to NSW’s economic recovery post COVID-19,” CEO John Nagle said.

“As employees begin to return to their workplaces, in what will most likely be a phased transition, icare is dedicated to supporting the workforce sustainability and smooth reintegration of employees to the workplace.

“Our COVID-19 Recovery Employer Toolkit provides employers with clear guidance on how to identify risks and implement best practice within the new working environment to create better mental and physical health outcomes for the people of NSW.”

The toolkit is based on icare’s research report, The Effects of Public Health Events on Workforce Sustainability, and is focused on good leadership, consistent and clear communication and best practice support.