We regularly review concerns raised by employees and other stakeholders in respect of the Covid-secure measures we are adopting. Most concerns relate to how individuals are behaving, ie not following the measures required. What can we do to improve behaviour?
Although the vaccination programme offers hope of a return to some level of normalcy in relation to the pandemic situation, it is likely that certain restrictions will remain in workplaces for some time to come.
When new risk control measures are put in place it can take individuals time to adapt and adopt the necessary behaviours required, such as social distancing, and modified hygiene and work practices.
Covid-secure guidelines produced by the Government note the need for employers to instruct and inform employees and others on the measures to be followed, supported by the use of appropriate signage and instructional materials.
Certainly, good communication is essential to any behaviour change campaign. A few short, essential messages should be used to boost stakeholders’ sense of duty to control the spread of the virus.
The Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) has produced useful guidance that can help when encouraging the appropriate behaviour.
This is based upon the principles of:
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educating
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enabling
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the environment
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encouraging
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endorsing.
as well as the most effective means of “getting the message across”.
In support of this, CPNI suggests the use of Covid-19 Reps, particularly in large organisations, so as to provide “local encouragement and support in every section of the organisation”. These reps could:
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act as a local point of contact in terms of embedding the campaign in their area/department and feed through information
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gather feedback from staff about how the messaging is being received and how people are following the guidelines
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act as role models for other employees in adopting the most appropriate behaviours.
If you do take this approach, it is essential to select the right people. They will need to be fully instructed in the behaviours required and know about the wider communications/behaviour change campaign and desired outcomes.
Note that there is a risk that lax behaviour will be exacerbated as more people get the vaccine and believe they are at less risk from Covid-19. You will need to consider this as part of your behaviour change campaign.
Last reviewed 10 February 2021
