9/23 HRM-RI Meeting: H1N1 Flu and Disaster Preparedness
The Facts and Considerations from Four Points of View
by Gerard Holder, Chair, HRM-RI Public Relations Committee
On Wednesday, September 23rd, HRM-RI held their monthly breakfast meetings at the Radisson on Post Road in Warwick, with a record turn out of approxi-mately 150 members and guests. The program was reported on the front page of the Providence Journal.
Our distinguished guests, Dr. David Gifford, Director, R.I. Department of Health (photo at left); Robert H. Morsilli, Partner, Jackson Lewis LLP, Aaron Gallaway, Sungard Availability Services; and Judy Hoffman, Executive Director, RIEAS- Rhode Island Employee Assistance Services, shared great insight (their points of view) concerning the impact of H1N1 on employers. Insights were provided on the high risk groups, OSHA’s requirements and guidance, H1N1 executive issues and managing anxiety around H1N1.
Dr. Gifford identified individuals with respiratory illnesses as the high risk groups who may face the most complications. A short list of that group would include individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pregnancy, immunocompromised, cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. Although, OSHA has no specific standards covering H1N1, as mentioned by Robert Morsilli, "OSHA’s personal protective equipment (PPE) and respiratory and protection rules may be applicable."
Aaron Gallaway, of SunGard provided insights on executive issues other than medicine and public health. Aaron suggested, "employers will more likely maintain an adequate workforce if they considered the needs of their employees and their families." He also provided information on crisis management team composition and responsibilities. In an effort to manage the anxiety around swine flu, Judy Hoffman suggested keeping things in perspective, thinking optimistically, and improving your health. Judy further recommended utilizing the Employee Assistance Programs to cope with the anxiety and stress.
If you are an HRM-RI member you may view, print, or download our distinguished guest’s presentations from the Member's Only section of our site -- click here and login..
You can obtain more information about the swine flu from the following links:
