Managing Return to Work Fatigue: How to Support Your Employees
As offices begin to reopen following government guidelines, many employees face “return to work fatigue.” Whether your staff have been on furlough, working from home, or a mix of the two, it’s important to manage the transition carefully to maintain productivity and wellbeing.
Below are practical strategies you can implement to support your employees and reduce risks associated with returning to the office.
Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment
A risk assessment ensures your workplace is safe for all employees. Consider:
Individual needs: Evaluate different roles and levels of contact.
PPE availability: Provide masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies.
Office cleaning: Maintain regular cleaning schedules to reduce infection risk.
These measures help determine the level of contact and precautions required.
Meet Employees One-to-One
Holding individual “return to work” meetings allows employees to:
Voice concerns about the transition.
Receive support for specific needs.
Understand available resources to manage stress.
Follow up with regular check-ins to ensure employees are adjusting well and are not overwhelmed.
Implement a Phased Return
A staggered return can reduce risk and help employees adjust gradually:
Rotate days between home and office working.
Create “work bubbles” to limit large group interactions.
Continue social distancing wherever possible.
This approach ensures employees transition safely and comfortably.
Be Patient and Adjust Expectations
Returning to the office can be draining:
Reduce workload expectations during the first week.
Offer refresher training for those who were on furlough.
Allow time for employees to catch up on emails or backlog.
Acknowledging the impact of work fatigue can improve morale and productivity.
Conclusion
Managing return to work fatigue requires planning, patience, and a supportive approach. By implementing risk assessments, one-to-one meetings, phased returns, and adjusted expectations, you can help employees rebuild stamina and maintain wellbeing in the workplace.
If you have questions about risk management or Employers Liability insurance, contact us at 0191 917 0330 or email info@talbotjones.co.uk.
