Good Afternoon, All –

I hope that everyone is staying well during this time.

We want to continue to share information with our employees, and to answer any questions as they arise.

There is a lot of information coming out 24/7 on this topic, and it’s important that we all support our employees, and make sure that they have good information, and are not responding to hearsay.  The states are beginning to take a number of actions to reduce public gatherings such as conferences, concerts, sporting events and other group activities.  Schools have been closed in many areas, and you may be hearing from employees about their personal situations during this time.  Please speak to your managers and to me with any questions about how to respond to our employees regarding their questions.

In general, if an employee is calling out to take care of their child or children who are home from school due to closures, they will need to use PTO, not sick time, and after that they will not be paid.  The government may step in for these situations, and provide a safety net through unemployment, and we are monitoring any changes in that regard.  It has not happened as of yet.

If you have an employee who is calling out sick for themselves or because of a family member who they are caring for, they are to use their paid sick time or other PTO.  If they need additional time, for a more serious situation for themselves or a family member, they can reach out to me with questions.  Please keep me and your manager apprised of any situation at all, even if minor.

Please follow our standard policy regarding those who may be out sick.  If it is 3 days or more, they will need a doctor’s note.  If it is a mobility issue, they will need to have a Return to Work document completed.

At this time, we have had a few cases of minor flu and there have been no other illnesses reported at this time.  We are encouraging all employees at USI to stay calm, to follow the state and local requirements that are being put forth and to practice good health habits.

Please note these helpful reminders:

During this time, and all through the year, we need to be mindful about staying healthy and encouraging our employees to take care of themselves throughout the cold and flu season, and during the outbreak of the Corona Virus.  Everyone should be practicing these good habits every day:

  • Washing your hands frequently, using soap and water, for at least 20 seconds
  • Utilizing hand sanitizer throughout the day as needed after being in public places
  • Coughing or sneezing into the crook of your elbow
  • Avoiding touching your face, eyes and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Avoiding anyone who may have flu-like symptoms
  • Using tissues and immediately throwing them away
  • Seeking medical attention if you feel that you have been exposed to anyone with flu-like symptoms
  • Being sure that any employee who has flu-like symptoms or the flu is staying home until they are cleared to return to work.  They must present a doctor’s note after being out for 3 days or more.  That is standard USI policy, and we will continue to follow that protocol
  • Getting a flu shot.  It’s not too late!

 

Please be sure to check in with your officers, to see if anyone has questions or concerns.  If anyone seems anxious, please have them call me, and I will be happy to help.  You can provide any employee with my contact information, and I will speak with them.  If you have questions or concerns on how to handle any situation during this time, please call me.  As a reminder, my cell number is 917-885-4475.

As always, I am here to assist and support you and our officers, and I’m happy to help.  Thank you for your assistance throughout the year in helping me to get important information and materials out to all of our employees. Have a wonderful afternoon and be safe in all of your endeavors!

Best regards,

Valerie J. Izzo