KPMG LLP Launches Dynamic Framework to Help Organizations Safely Reopen Their Workplaces

KPMG LLP that provides audits, tax and advisory globally has launched a dynamic framework with features which other organizations can implement to reopen workplaces and get their employees back to work. The technology-based structure is a compilation of database built on 12 and its impact within a community. This framework estimates the issues that the management and its employee may confront on resuming the work at the workplace in their respective regions.

The five-phased framework is customizable, conducive and adaptive to accommodate the business nature of each client. The framework supports a quick and informed decision, considering the technical documents, reports and returns based on data that evaluate the risk in the local market in compliance with government and regulatory policies.

Atif Zaim, Customer and Operations Services Line Leader, KPMG LLP stated that reopening organizations and bringing employees back at workplace brings in technical challenges. It is further complexed by the fluidity of the situation, public policy responses, and different challenges faced by businesses, their suppliers and their employees. “KPMG’s dynamic risk-based framework helps organizations build and execute an effective return-to-work program.”

Todd Lohr, Principal, Digital Enablement Leader, KPMG LLP, added, “KPMG’s framework provides a passport concept in a digital wallet and leverages mobile device technology, enabling employers to manage permissions for where and how employees will safely reenter the workplace.”

KPMG’s framework encompasses the following 5-step approach:

1. Risk-Assessment

KPMG has developed a risk management protocol which is the first preventive step that facilities the organization to create their respective database supported by analytical tools that access both community threat levels and individual risks particularly concerning contact and transmission concerning COVID-19.

2. Policies for Workplace Safety

A critical assessment of employee presence to their role is an essential aspect of contemplation. The valuation that the employee should work remotely or be physically present needs utmost consideration. The organization need to strictly include and implement the social distancing policies laid by federal, state and local public health and safety for the employees resuming to work. The organizations need to formulate strategies based on employment and privacy laws besides their company policies to collect voluntary or mandatory information from the employee. The organization must clarify whether the declaration by the employee should be self-certified or third party certified. 

3. Process Collaboration

After the preemptive determination of risk framework and safety, the policy with the consultation of their medical and legal advisors the next step will be to install process such as diagnostic testing, temperature checks and workplace sanitation to protect employees at the workplace. 

4. Technology enablement/Employee logistics

Organizations now need to advance their technical capabilities to ensure the safety of the employees coming back to work. These technology-based devices should keep the track record of employee contacts, diagnose employees for infection and lay down workplace-related processes by installing mechanisms during entry, movement exit and enforce social distancing. 

5. Program Governance
Organizations will need agile management that operates with precision on decision-making protocols, to steer the coming back of their workforce in a dynamic, fluid environment.

About KPMG LLP

KPMG LLP is the independent U.S. member firm of KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”) having services in financial audit, tax and advisory sectors. KPMG International’s independent member firms hold 219,000 professionals in 147 countries and territories. 

Learn more at  www.kpmg.com