As the number of people infected with COVID-19 continues to rise, more and more areas are issuing orders that require citizens to stay at home. Typically, these government guidelines provide exceptions for workers in "essential services," but what exactly does that mean? Environmental remediation is an example of an industry that remains essential even though it does not involve directly providing healthcare or food to people.
Many public orders do not directly mention environmental remediation as a type of company that may continue to operate. However, those in environmental remediation are involved in cleaning up various polluted sites that pose an immediate danger to public safety. Therefore, most regions are still allowing environmental cleanup to proceed. Businesses who are unsure of whether or not they should continue working can always get in touch with their local environmental agency to confirm that they are allowed to operate.
Despite the fact that most companies can still work, the coronavirus pandemic is having some effects on the industry. Many companies are now having to consider how they will carry out remediation while following social distancing guidelines. This can involve changes to standard practices for investigating sites and performing remediation activities. It may take a little more time to complete these tasks, since less employees can safely fit on a site now.
Another thing to consider is that many employees may be directly affected by COVID-19. Some businesses may find that employees need more flexible work schedules to accommodate caring for children while schools are closed. Others may not be able to visit sites because they are ill, caring for a sick loved one, or quarantined. Businesses will need to balance maintaining worker safety while ensuring that ongoing projects can still be completed.
Because of all these concerns, it is advisable for environmental remediation companies to plan ahead. It can be very helpful to begin setting up work from home options by ensuring that employees have access to communication networks, data, and other essential tools even when they are not in the office. Companies should also have ongoing discussions with all relevant regulatory and government agencies, so they can find out more about how they are expected to fulfill their important tasks during this difficult tim
