REMOTE WORK
Human resources technology company Wantedly only requires its employees in Singapore to work in the office twice a week and has kept the split team schedule introduced during the pandemic. For example, the sales team comes into the office on a different day from the marketing team.
“We decided to retain our arrangements since the pandemic because we are a knowledge-based technology company and believe in ‘getting things done’ wherever you are in terms of working location,” noted country manager Andrew Tan.
He added that it is important for the company to retain this flexibility as part of its employer branding to attract young talents such as fresh graduates.
UOB said it has a permanent flexible work policy where staff can work remotely for up to two days a week.
“We continue to provide hybrid working arrangements to eligible employees as part of creating a progressive and engaging work environment,” said the bank’s head of group human resources Dean Tong.
Prudential said the company has had a flexible working culture even before COVID-19, and recommends that employees spend one day in office with their teams and a second day in office for meetings.
“We also conduct regular cleaning and disinfecting of common spaces and equipment in our offices to ensure that it remains clean and hygienic for our employees,” said Ms Nair.
MEDICAL LEAVE, SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Wantedly has also been “fortunate” to not have any positive COVID-19 cases over the past few weeks, said Mr Tan.
But if employees test positive for COVID-19, they can observe the full medical certificate (MC) period of about three days, the country manager said, adding that there is “no rush to return to work” if they feel unwell.
On whether the company provides antigen rapid test (ART) kits to employees when they work in the office, Mr Tan said that the firm does not provide fresh testing supplies but has unexpired kits from the previous year.
MOH on Monday said that retailers and pharmacies in Singapore have sufficient supplies of ART kits, amid a rise in demand.
The ministry also advised the public to purchase kits in quantities that are sufficient only for their immediate needs and to not hoard supplies.
Ms Nair said Prudential provides ART kits in the office for employees who require testing.
“If any employee is unwell, they are advised to seek medical attention immediately and to remain home until their health status is confirmed,” she said, adding that employees are reminded to be socially responsible and take the necessary precautions.
Mr Tong said UOB employees who feel unwell are encouraged to stay home and rest, and can apply for medical leave without the need to provide an MC.
Those working in Singapore are also entitled to one complimentary flu vaccination each year, he said, adding that the bank also takes guidance from the government for pandemic-related measures such as mask-wearing.
“Apart from the rising number of COVID-19 infections, November to January is also typically a peak flu season due to increased social interactions and overseas travel during the year-end festivities.
“In view of this, UOB encourages our employees to continue practising social responsibility and to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and well during this period, “ said Mr Tong.