24 Jun 2024

COVID-19 pandemic broke traditional and cultural norms believed to be the fabric of the society as people were forced to stay in isolation for indefinite periods, movement restricted and normal gestures of shaking hands when greeting one another proved fatal acts.

In the workplace, working in shifts and ultimately working from home were viewed as one of the solutions to keep the world running and safeguarding livelihoods.

Though viewed as one of the positives likely drawn from the pandemic, the question at hand is whether the home environment was prepared to replace the office.

Giving a presentation on occupational health and safety during the 3rd Annual Labour Conference in Gaborone on Friday, Dr Priya Iyer, Pro Vice Chancellor – people and impact at Botho University said it was important for employers to take cognisance of conditions of practices in the workplace which has potential to cause harm or adverse health effects to employees.

She said such hazards could arise from various sources and could impact both the physical and psychological well-being of workers.

“They are a major concern for employers, employees and regulatory bodies as they can lead to accidents, injuries, illnesses and even fatalities,” said Dr Iyer.

Dr Iyer said one of the emerging trends in occupational health and safety in organisations was the remote work/working from home arrangement.

Even though viewed as a solution to addressing health issues easily susceptible to crowded office space, Dr Iyer has advised the employer to establish first, if the home was suitable for work.

Dr Iyer said it was also equally important to ensure that the home was connected with necessary communication networks to do the assigned duties. ENDS