The H1N1 flu pandemic
Not another crisis, but a potential threat to employees and therefore business, the possibility of a H1N1 outbreak at ArcelorMittal sites has been the subject of a complex and comprehensive Group-wide prevention plan. So how does a global company prepare for H1N1?
While many colleagues were on holiday, particularly in the northern hemisphere, a working group was set up to prepare for their return and the possibility of confirmed cases of H1N1. For our colleagues in the southern hemisphere, however, where the onset of the virus occurred earlier, the need was more urgent. The purpose of ArcelorMittal’s prevention plan was synchronisation and consistency on a global level.
With the evolution of the virus unknown, actions were prepared to assure business continuity and inform employees on preventative measures. All sites were given a checklist of no less than 120 points in order to assess their material needs, readiness and problem areas. Business Continuity Plans provided for the potential shutdown of sites and transfer of production. All of this, through weekly conference calls and updates with health specialists from the 4 corners of the world.
Although none of our sites have faced closure or massive outbreak, colleagues are asked to remain vigilant to avoid the potential health and economic repercussions on our Group.
3 comments
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September 24th, 2009 by Donald DeWitt
I understand that the company may be making the swine flu vaccine available to its employees some time late this year or in early 2010. What website or other company information medium should we be monitoring to find out when and how this will occur? Now that early tests have revealed that only one dose of the vaccine will be needed for full efficacy- does that move up the timetable for the vaccine’s distribution here?
It is encouraging to be working for an employer who takes a proactive stance on the swine flu issue rather than a wait-and-see approach.
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September 29th, 2009 by Charlotte Rodaway
Hi Donald,
Since sites are asked to follow local health authority recommendations, it will no doubt depend upon where you are based. The best thing would be to check with your local H&S specialist. Otherwise, keep an eye on Health and Safety News on our intranet homepage. There’s a whole host of other information available on the SharePoint site: https://www.myarcelormittal.com/sps1/portal/teamsites/H1N1Influenza
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December 22nd, 2009 by admin
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