Can Employers require these tests?  On June 17, 2020 the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) clarified how employers may screen workers for COVID-19. If an organization decides to utilize any or all the tests make sure COVID-19 testing is implemented consistently, stay within EEOC guidelines and follow U.S. Centers for Disease Contr...

On July 20, 2020, the U.S Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division (WHD) provided additional guidance about the workplace during the Coronavirus pandemic. The guidance is focused on the following workplace-related legislation: Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA...

At the outset of the Covid-19 crisis, U.S. companies — startups to large corporations across all industries — faced the challenge of remote work. As the COVID-19 crisis continues, employers should recognize that a remote workforce may be a strategic advantage. Employees who can adapt well to work at home are an asset in stressful times. Now compani...

ADA ​The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act (which include the requirement for reasonable accommodation and non-discrimination based on disability, and rules about employer medical examinations and inquiries), continue to apply during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they do not interfere with or prevent employers from follo...

As restaurants reopen under current CDC, OSHA, state and local guidelines HR considerations are a critical part of the plan. Following are key HR considerations for your beyond "take-out" reopening. Restaurant Staffing As restaurants initially operate at reduced dining capacity, furloughed and laid off employees may not be hired back all at once. T...

Tom Pecoraro, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Excelerator®, spoke with Joe Flood, Founder of N2 Communications, in a recent podcast available HERE. They discussed how COVID-19 is changing the workplace now and in the future. Key points from the audio podcast: Remote Business Operations Daily Video and Audio Employee Meetings: Remote meetings ca...

The coronavirus -- named COVID-19 -- outbreak situation changes by the hour. Employers should carefully review their strategies, policies and procedures to ensure their business and employees are prepared to respond.COVID-19 spreads largely through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, and it seems to spread easily. It may also be possib...

Many retailers have implemented immediate layoffs or are considering potential layoffs, shift reductions, remote work scenarios for management as well as temporary or permanent store closures. Some are remaining open to serve customers in ways that are permitted by changing government guidance. Management decisions, even in a time of crisis, should...

Many businesses have been forced to immediately offer temporary remote employment to their employees.  Employers must now know how to manage, train and provide resources to their employees so work can continue in compliance with federal, state and local laws. Companies should be implementing an HR crisis management plan that includes, but is n...

​Many restaurants and hotels have implemented immediate layoffs or are considering potential layoffs, shift reductions, remote work scenarios for management as well as temporary or permanent store or hotel closures. Some are remaining open to serve customers in ways that are permitted by changing government guidance. Management decisions, even in a...