coronavirus pandemic...1 175 years of doing great things coronavirus pandemic talk to us we are here...
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175 YEARS OF DOING GREAT THINGS
CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
TALK TO US
We are here for you. If you need any help or clarity, call our Covid-19 Employee Helpline on 0860 515 515 E-mail your questions to the Covid-19 mailbox: [email protected]
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
To create a safe workplace and make sure our employees are clued-up about our Response Plan, we continue to provide you with clear communications.
Visit our digital Covid-19 Communications Portal and STAY IN THE KNOW.
EMPLOYEE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
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CONTENTS
1. Health and Safety measures in the Workplace 3
2. Human Capital matters 7
3. Third Party matters 11
4. Medical matters 12
5. General matters: Good Tips/Contact details 13
Please do not circulate - this document is for INTERNAL USE only
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HEALTH & SAFETY MEASURES IN THE WORKPLACE1
Q: I am one of the employees who are designated to work in one of Old Mutual’s offices. What guidelines must I follow?
Thank you for your service and dedication to Old Mutual and our customers. Here’s some practical tips to ensure you remain safe and to ensure the safety of others:
• Only use the entrances and exits designated (e.g. for Mutual Park, that is the main entrance). This is to ensure you are screened daily
• Remember that if you are feeling unwell, please stay at home - irrespective of your symptoms. Inform your line manager
• Masks will be provided to you – you are required to wear them at the office in particular when you may engage others
• While at the office, it’s important to you maintain strict social distancing. Please engage your colleagues in the offices via email, WhatsApp, teams, shout if you have to! But do avoid coming into contact with your colleagues as far as reasonably possible and if you can’t avoid contact, please keep at least 1.5 metres between you
• Remember – no hugs and no handshakes!
• Should you start feeling ill at the office, self-isolate immediately, and head home. Do not engage others if possible and inform your line manager. Should you have flu-like symptoms, please self-quarantine for 14 days and contact your doctor for advice. You may be required to complete additional steps before returning to the office
• When you go home, and you’ve been in contact with others at the office, take precautions before engaging your loved ones. You may want to consider taking a shower straight-away
• If you have any questions, please call our dedicated Covid-19 Employee Helpline on 0860 515 515
YOUR HEALTH AND SAFETY IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE TO US.
WE HOPE THESE SIMPLE GUIDELINES WILL HELP TO KEEP YOU SAFE.
Q: Will Old Mutual supply facemasks and sanitizers to all our employees who are required to work at OM premises that are open during the staggered lifting of lockdown?
• Yes, all the required items as informed by risk assessments will be supplied
• All employees who are required to work on-site during lockdown will be issued with 2 cloth face masks and must wear a mask all times
• Please wash and iron your face mask on a daily basis
• It is compulsory for employees to also wear a face mask in public as per the directive of the Department of Health
Q: I am working remotely and have tested positive for Covid-19. What must I do now?
• You must immediately inform your Line Manager and also report it to our EHS Department on (011) 217 1809
• Please also send the details of the incident to [email protected]
• You need to go into self-isolation for 14 days and complete our Self-Monitoring Tool
• You can only leave your home again or return to office (if you are an essential or permitted employee) once you have completed your 14-days period and not show any symptoms
• Read the useful information sheet on our Covid-19 Communications Portal
Q: At any point, what must I do if I have reason to believe I have Covid-19?
• Immediately inform your line manager and stay away from the office
• Please also send the details of the incident to [email protected]
• Contact your doctor (by telephone only) to determine appropriate next steps – this might include that you get tested
• You can also call the 24-hour general public coronavirus hotline 0800 029 999 for more information
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Q: What is the difference between self-quarantine and self-isolation?
• Self-quarantine is the restriction of activities or separation of persons who are not ill, but who may have been exposed to infected person(s), with the aim to monitor symptoms for early detection of cases
• Self-quarantine is different to self-isolation, which is the separation of ill or infected persons from others, so as to prevent the spread of infection or contamination
• At Old Mutual, you are required to use our Self-Monitoring Tool to document your daily progress when you are in self-quarantine or self-isolation
Q: I’m feeling sick with flu – what must I do?
• Employees who are sick are not permitted to go to work
• Please seek medical assistance at your nearest service provider
• You can also call the 24-hour general public Coronavirus Hotline 0800 029 999 for guidelines on how to proceed
• If you are being screened for fever at work; you are also required to report if you have any Covid-19 related symptoms which includes cough, sore throat, redness of eyes or shortness of breath (or difficulty in breathing) body aches, loss of smell or loss of taste, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue, weakness, redness of the eyes or tiredness
Q: What happens if my family member is tested positive / quarantined but I am required to work at Old Mutual’s office. Must I stay at home and will this quarantine be considered sick leave?
• You must observe self-quarantine (as per the steps on p. 5) if the relative is living in your household during their quarantine period.
• You must also get tested
• You must also immediately inform your line manager and also complete our Self-Monitoring Tool
• Self-quarantine will be treated as a special leave for which the employee will be paid.
Q: When does Old Mutual require me to go into self-quarantine?
• Old Mutual’s rule for self-quarantine applies to Level of Contact (as per details below)
• IF IN DOUBT, call our Employee Helpline 0860 515 515
CIRCUMSTANCES OLD MUTUAL PROCESS
LEVEL OF CONTACT
CLOSE CONTACT: As per definitions of National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD)
Employee had face-to-face contact or was in a closed environment with a suspected or confirmed Covid-19 case; incl. people living in same household / people working closely in same environment / contact with people who are going for Covid-19 testing
• YOU MUST NOT COME TO WORK• You must observe 14-day self-quarantine • You must also go for Covid-19 testing• You must inform your Line Manager and our Covid-19
Helpdesk (email [email protected])• You must complete the Self-Monitoring Tool and
submit it to [email protected]
SECOND LEVEL CONTACTTHIRD LEVEL CONTACTAs per Old Mutual definitions
Depending on symptomatic or asymptomatic conditions
• Call our Employee Helpline on 0860 515 515 to confirm process
• E-mail: [email protected]
TRAVEL
Not applicable while no travel is allowed during lockdown period
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Q: What must I do should it be necessary that I go into self-quarantine?
• When you go into self-quarantine, you are required to work from home (if you are enabled).
HERE ARE THE KEY STEPS TO FOLLOW:
(1) Inform your Line Manager (2) Inform us via e-mail on [email protected] - (Name, BU, start date, details of travel / situation) (3) Use our Self-Monitoring Tool to record any symptoms (on our Portal), (4) When returning, share your Self-Monitoring record with your Line Manager; and [email protected] * DO call your doctor immediately when you have flu-like symptoms
Q: I am required to work at Old Mutual’s office but someone in my household is in self-isolation recovering from Covid-19. Can I still come to the office?
No, if someone in your household is in self-isolation you are also required to self-quarantine for 14 days and submit your self-monitoring tool on [email protected]
Q: What happens when I have close contact with someone who is in quarantine or going for Covid-19 testing or has tested positive but I am required to work on-site?
• You MUST NOT COME TO WORK
• You must immediately inform your line manager and let us know (e-mail [email protected])
• You must stay at home and observe self-quarantine for 14 days, and also complete our Self-Monitoring Tool
• You must also get tested
• Self-quarantine will be treated as a special leave for which you will be paid
Q: I met with a customer yesterday and now hears he/she tested positive for Covid-19. What must I do?
• It is the same process as above. You MUST NOT COME TO WORK.
• You must immediately inform your line manager and let us know (e-mail [email protected])
• You must stay at home and observe self-quarantine for 14 days, and also complete our Self-Monitoring Tool
• You must also get tested
• Self-quarantine will be treated as a special leave for which you will be paid
Q: We are a few colleagues in the office who are required to work on-site. Can we conduct face-to-face meetings? What are the guidelines?
• Gatherings in the workplace must not exceed 5 people, and meeting at some work sites will not be permitted at all
• Physical distancing must be ensured, so please keep 1.5m away from others
• You must wear your face mask at all times
• Please also exercise all the necessary hygiene precautions
Q: Old Mutual says that where the 14-day self-quarantine period applies, the employee must work from home. My team member is not able to work from home; he does not have access to a work laptop. What happens now? Does he just stay at home without working (and will he get paid if so), or will he be forced to put in leave?
• Employees will be enabled as far as possible to work from home. If this is not possible, the self-quarantine period must still be observed
• Self-quarantine will be treated as a special leave for which the employee will be paid
Q: How are we protecting our OM offices & branches?
• To limit our exposure and help contain a potential outbreak, we have a comprehensive Response Plan in place – and we are prepared
• Our Operations team installed additional sanitisers in common areas in our offices (stairs, lifts, bathrooms, reception areas etc), and a more vigorous office cleaning routine is followed where all high-risk surfaces are sanitised three times a day
• Temperature scanners are procured to enable screening of employees, visitors, suppliers, contractors, customers, etc
• Access will be denied to anyone with a temperature reading of above 37,5°C
• Those presenting symptoms that include cough, runny nose, sore throat, shortness of breath or fever will also be denied access
Q: Will the open ground floor areas at both Mutualpark (Cape Town) and Mutual Place (JHB) be open to visitors during the staggered lifting of lockdown?
No visitors will be allowed
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Q: I am allowed to work at Old Mutual’s offices and see Cleaning Staff in our area. What measurements do OM take to ensure they are not carriers of the virus and hence do not pose a risk to infect our own people?
Risk assessments have been conducted for cleaning activities and cleaners trained on precautionary measures. The cleaners also undergo screening and are required to report when they are presenting symptoms
Q: I know that Old Mutual made the refurbished Mupine facility available for self-quarantine. As an employee working for Old Mutual, will I get preferential treatment should I wish to make use of this?
There is no special consideration for Old Mutual employees
• It is important to understand that we funded the refurbishment of Mupine as part of our responsible business ethos to deliver a service to our communities in need
• Following the refurbishment, we handed the facility over to the Department of Health in the Western Cape, who is now solely responsible for managing it
• Old Mutual is not involved in any aspect of the administration. As such, we do not have the power nor authority to place people there
• Also note that the Mupine facility is only admitting cases of self-isolation – i.e. when patients have tested positive; and not for self-quarantine cases
• If you have a need to self-isolate (either yourself or a family member), you will have to contact the Department of Health and submit your application to them for their consideration
• The Department of Health will make an assessment based on the application details, area of residence and available beds. Therefore, the allocated facility might not necessarily be Mupine
Q: If I contracted the virus in the workplace at Old Mutual, will you provide me with a safe place to self-isolate?
As explained above, Old Mutual does not have access to a self-isolation facility
• Should it be clear that you contracted Covid-19 while in the office, we will assist you with completing the necessary Government application form and support your motivation with the relevant Health Department to see how they can assist you
• The department will contact you directly for placement arrangements
Q: While on duty in the office, there was an unfortunate workplace infection and we were all asked to go for Covid-19 testing. Will Old Mutual pay for this?
Yes, if the suspected exposure was work-related then Old Mutual will fund the testing cost
• It is important for employees to request permission from their line managers prior to the tests being done
• Line Managers need to make the necessary arrangements for testing and keep record of the costs and test results
Q: Old Mutual has set up the Covid-19 testing site at Mupine in partnership with Lancet Laboratories. Do Old Mutual employees get discounts on tests?
• No. In line with our responsible business ethos, Old Mutual provided the convenient location as a service to the community
• Lancet Laboratories have standard testing criteria and costs in place that apply to all members of the public, including our employees
Q: The recent relaxation of certain regulations allow conference venues to be operational again. Will Old Mutual allow me to attend a work conference where the venue has all the safety measures in place?
• No. Given the continued rapid spread of Covid-19, we encourage everyone to still only attend virtual events. Attending any work-related conference in person is not permitted
• Old Mutual will equally not be hosting any conferences/events at this level
Q: What is the process to follow in the event of a suspected Covid-19 on-site?
A suspected Covid-19 case refers to:
• Measured temperature reading of 37,5ºC and above (regarded as fever) OR
• Persons presenting physical evidence of flu-like symptoms or appearing sick OR
• Persons reporting that they are suffering from the Covid-19 related symptoms.
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If a person presents with any of the symptoms above, the following is required:
1. If the person is an employee in our workplace, he/she must inform the Covid-19 Compliance Officer immediately. The employee must also immediately inform his / her Line Manager and send their details to [email protected]
2. Old Mutual must not permit the person to enter the workplace or report for work (in a case of employees arriving at work)
3. The person presenting symptom (s) must be isolated and provided with a FFP1 surgical mask
4. The nurse or designated person will provide advice for the suspected persons to:
• Arrange for a consultation with a doctors for further screening/testing and/or
• Contact the Covid-19 Government helpline (on 0800 029 999) for guidance on testing
5. If self-isolation is prescribed for the suspected person (in a case of employees); then our Self-Monitoring tool must be completed and details sent to [email protected]
6. In cases where there are no health workers, our Covid-19 Compliance Officer must be contacted to advise the person on the required steps (referral for testing)
7. Should the suspected person’s test come back positive, the exposed employees are to be tested
8. The Covid-19 Compliance Officer must arrange for a suspected case to be transported in a manner that does not place other workers or members of the public at risk
9. The affected area must be disinfected
Q: What is the process to follow in the event of an employee testing positive for Covid-19 while in the workplace?
In the event of an employee testing positive for Covid-19 in the workplace, the following steps must be taken:
1. The infected employee must immediately report it as follows
• inform his / her Line Manager and send their details to [email protected]
• inform the Covid-19 Compliance Officer
• also report it to our EHS Department on (011) 217 1809
2. The infected person must be directed to the isolation area, where there must be adequate ventilation
3. Old Mutual must ensure that the infected person is wearing a mask
4. The infected person must avoid touching any surfaces
5. No persons may engage with the infected person unless they are health & safety officials, medical personnel, designated person or driver – they must avoid touching the infected person
6. Any persons needing to engage with the infected person must wear full PPE’s, i.e. a mask, gloves and face shield
7. The transport in which the Covid-19 infected person is transferred / moved from Old Mutual’s work-site must be thoroughly disinfected and the driver must ensure that she or he wears a mask whilst transporting the infected person and sanitise the vehicle and her- or himself after the drop off
8. Once the infected person has been appropriately supported and escorted from the building, no other person may enter the isolation and potentially contaminated areas
9. A professional cleaning team must be contracted to assist with the deep cleaning of the premises, which includes areas where the infected employee works and any general area the person might have been in
10. A risk assessment must be completed for all employees or persons who have been working in close contact with the infected person to enable completion of the contacts register
11. The risk assessment team must also identify employees who need to be tested and also those who require to go into 14 day self-quarantine
12. Department of Health and the Department of Employment and Labour must be notified of the Covid-19 case
13. Investigation of the cause including any control failure and review must be conducted
14. Old Mutual must give administrative support to any contact-tracing measures implemented by the Department of Health
15. In the case of an employee, the infected person need to self-isolation for 14-days; our Self-Monitoring tool must be completed and details sent to [email protected]
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HUMAN CAPITAL MATTERS2
Q: During the staggered lifting of lockdown, how does Old Mutual decide who will need to work at OM’s offices / branches and who not?
Old Mutual follows the following principles:
• Business functions that are effective at working remotely should continue to do so
• The target is to have as few as possible staff on site at OM premises
- This will be informed by physical space and business needs
- Priority must be given to client facing staff and those essential to executing trades (OMIG specific)
• No site can be operational if it does not comply with the minimum health and safety standards
- Further, on-site protocols must be adhered to as well as protocols when there is a case/suspected case of Covid-19 exposure
• Confirmation is required that employees nominated to work on-site do not fall into the category of Old Mutual Covid-19 Vulnerable Employees, and if so, these employees must continue to work remotely
• A number of factors must be considered in the process to expand working from home on a long-term basis
• Clear staff communication is required throughout the process of the staggered lift of lockdown
• It is a priority to enable those staff members that are currently not IT-enabled to work remotely. Line Managers will share the process to follow
• Each business unit designs its unlock plan based on its operational needs to ensure optimal productivity with as minimal number of employees returning to work
• Employees who have been identified as Covid-19 Vulnerable Employees (see definition below) will not be allowed to return to work
Q: How do I know if I am a Vulnerable Employee?
Old Mutual’s criteria for Vulnerable Employees is informed by global best practice and guidelines from South Africa’s National Department of Health. You are considered a Vulnerable Employee (more susceptible to the coronavirus) if you:
• are over 60 years
• have had an organ transplant
• are taking immunosuppressive therapy (e.g. chronic steroids, methotrexate)
• have any of the following conditions:
- diabetes - hypertension (high blood pressure) - cardiac (heart) disease - chronic lung disease - asthma - chronic kidney disease - cancer/malignancies - chronic blood disorders - HIV - active or past tuberculosis - pregnancy - liver disease - severe obesity (BMI >40) - autoimmune and connective tissue diseases (e.g. Rheumatoid Arthritis, SLE)
Q: What if I have a chronic medical condition that requires me to take chronic medication but it is not included in the list above?
Please consult with your doctor and provide your line manager/HR consultant with your doctor’s view so that we can advise accordingly.
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Q: What must I do if I am required to work on-site but meet the criteria of a Vulnerable Employee?
• The Government has strict regulations in place that do not allow vulnerable people in the workplace as a result of the increased risk. Therefore, all employees who are required to work on-site at Old Mutual premises will need to confirm they are not vulnerable (as per our definition above) to help us keep our employees and our workplace safe
• Please note that if you are permitted to work on-site, you only need to indicate whether you fall into the ‘Vulnerable Employees’ category or not. You will not need to disclose or share any other details regarding your health status
• As this is a legal requirement, our managers are obliged to obtain this information and will take every precaution to keep it confidential.• We appreciate your cooperation to make our workplace a safe and healthy environment for everyone
Q: What if someone in my household is vulnerable to Covid-19?
Living with a vulnerable person does not make you a Vulnerable Employee and you will need to come to the office if required to do so.However, living with a vulnerable person requires you to take extra care and be super vigilant and conscientious about following all safety protocols – whether at home, at work, at the supermarket, at the pharmacy or in the street while on an exercise walk. This is to ensure you protect vulnerable persons in your households.Please always follow the safety guidelines we share ongoingly as soon as you enter your household
Q: What are good safety guidelines to keep top of mind?
• Always practice strict social distancing outside and inside your home. Keep at least 1.5 metres between yourself and others. Remember, no hugs or hand-shakes!
• Clean the high-touch points and surfaces in your home frequently by wiping or washing them• When you go out, avoid unnecessary interaction with others and limit any non-essential travel and visits• Be very careful when dealing with food. Before preparing or eating food it is important to always rinse the food with water and wash
your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds for general food safety• Wear a face mask when you go out and when in the office. Remind others it’s compulsory• When you go home after you’ve been in contact with others, take precautions before interacting with your loved ones. Wipe your
shoes with a cloth, take a shower or wash yourself immediately and put your clothes in a bag to be washed.• Continue to practice proper hygiene etiquette: - regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water - avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth - avoid sick people - cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing
Q: What if I am required to work remotely but are experiencing abuse at home?
Please share this with your manager or HR consultant who will support you and arrange for you to be able to return to the office.
You are also welcome to reach out to the ICAS toll-free line on 0800 006 068
Q: I am enabled to work from home but have many interruptions so prefer to work in the office. My manager will not allow this. Why not? What can I do about it?
• Old Mutual aims at having large numbers of employees working from home to ensure that our we protect the health and safety of our employees and to curb the Covid-19 infections in the country
• The nature of interruptions must be discussed with your line manager to see how it can be remedied. Line managers may also allow a level flexibility for the delivering on tasks
Q: I am not enabled to work from home. What is the process that you follow to get people like me enabled?
• You must inform your line manager who will assist you
Q: I am not enabled to work from home. For the period of the staggered lifting of lockdown, must I now take leave?
• If you are not enabled to work remotely, you will not be required to use your annual leave. Your absence during staggered lifting of the lockdown will be regarded as paid special leave. However, you may be required to return to work on a rotational basis
• This will be the case until lockdown is lifted or you are enabled to work remotely, whichever occurs first
• In the event that you are enabled but are unable to work due to other commitments, you would need to apply for annual leave
Q: I am not enabled to work from home. What happens if I get sick during the staggered lifting of lockdown period. Must I log this as sick leave?
• If you are not enable to work remotely and are unwell, you will not be required to utilise sick leave. The absence during lockdown will be regarded as paid special leave. However, you may be required to return to work on a rotational basis. In such an event, if you are not able to return to work you will be required take sick leave.
• This will be the case until lockdown is lifted or you are enabled to work remotely, whichever occurs first
• You must still inform your line manager that you are unwell
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Q: Can I continue to log annual leave during the staggered lifting of lockdown period (as per normal) or will it be deferred until after the lockdown?
• In instances where you must take annual and/or sick leave and are not able to log your leave, you must inform your line manager for record purposes. The leave will be logged at a later stage based on the records submitted
• It is key that employees remember that the relationship between the employee and the organisation is based on trust. Employees are required to be contactable and available to their line manages and/or customers even in instances where they are not able to work remotely
• We continue to monitor the developments and will review our position should it become necessary
Q: In light of the President’s announcement, can you please consider this suggestion:
In the interest of protecting everyone’s wellness during this trying time, especially considering families with small children (like mine with 3 kids under the age of 7), I want to suggest that during this unprecedented time in our country’s history the official working hours are reduced to enable people to still tend to their families and other normal household tasks which, under normal circumstances, would not have been a problem.
• The very nature of remote working allows levels of flexibility
• As mentioned above, employees are required to remain available and contactable for managers and customers (internal and external)
• You may agree with your line manager on flexibility to the extent such arrangements do not negatively impact our business operations
• In the event that you are not in a position to be available and / or contactable for any reason, you must take the applicable leave (eg. annual, sick, etc.)
Q: I am a manager of a new employee who is due to join Old Mutual over the next few weeks. What now?
• All employees who will be commencing on 1 May and beyond are required not to report at the office nor come into contact with their colleagues until arrangements with the line managers are made for remote working enablement (such as laptops, 3G card, VPN, cell phones, etc.). In this regard, employees may be required to come to the office for a day or two to finalise the enablement process
Q: I am currently in self-quarantine (as per Old Mutual’s protocol) and working from home. How does the staggered lifting of lockdown period now impact on your requirements for self-quarantine?
• There is no change to our process – except that you are only allowed back in office after you have been cleared by the medical practitioner
• We strongly encourage you to maintain social / physical distancing from members in your household, be very vigilant and follow the personal hygiene measures
• You must also continue to use the Employee Self-Quarantine Tool and record any symptoms, which you will share with your line manager and e-mail to [email protected] upon your return to office after lockdown
• As always, please do call your doctor immediately when you have flu-like symptoms
Q: As a Manager of a staff member who goes into self-quarantine, what must I do?
• Please make sure your staff members notified us of their self-quarantine periods (they must send an email to us [email protected])
• You need to stay in (digital) contact with your staff members during the self-quarantine period.
• Let us know if you have questions on [email protected]
Q: How will self-quarantine be treated, i.e. annual leave, sick leave etc.
• Given the fact that self-quarantine or social isolation has proven to be an effective way of preventing the spread of the virus, we encourage all employees to observe the guidelines provided by Department of Health.
• As a responsible employer we will be more flexible about our working practices and tools to support business continuity whilst not compromising health. This will be done in discussion and agreement with the direct line manager.
• During the self-quarantine period, no leave will be impacted
Q: How will my absence from work be treated if I test positive for Covid-19?
• Sick leave will apply
Q: How will my absence from work be treated if I do not have any sick leave due to me?
• You will be required to apply for additional sick leave and, if not approved, will be placed on unpaid leave
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Q: If my medical aid savings are exhausted, will there be a special benefit to pay for my doctors’ visits during self-quarantine period?
If a member has been diagnosed with Covid-19 the special benefit indicated in the answer below is applicable. This will apply whether or not the member has or doesn’t have savings.
Q: Can you confirm that this special benefit remains in place when lockdown is being lifted?
Yes, we still continuing to make this benefit available as we need to ensure our employees have sufficient cover.
Q: What must I know about my Old Mutual Staff Medical Aid Fund and Covid-19?
The Board of Trustees has approved the payment of the diagnostic test and consultations for confirmed cases as follows:
• Cover the diagnostic pathology test from the risk benefit for confirmed cases only.
• Pay for 2 GP consultations from the risk benefit during the quarantine period (confirmed cases)
• Furthermore, on doctors’ recommendation only, the Fund will cover the claims (as specified above) from the risk benefit for the following high-risk beneficiaries:
• Beneficiaries who have travelled to high-risk areas (i.e. areas with confirmed outbreaks, as indicated by Old Mutual’s Crisis Committee) within the past 6 weeks (This is for personal travel as OML will cover the costs for business travel).
• Beneficiaries who have had contact with a confirmed case
• Beneficiaries who are HIV+
• Beneficiaries older than 70 years of age
Covid-19 infection may, however, result in various complications. Most of the complications are included in the PMBs and will be treated as specified for the specific condition
We have requested Universal Healthcare to release weekly communication to members which encourages the benefits of proper personal hygiene as well as methods to boost the immune system
Q: Will Old Mutual issue an IR13 notice to me if I exceed my sick leave entitlement?
• The IR13 notice itself is merely a notification to an employee confirming that sick leave has been exhausted
• Once leave is exhausted, you will be required to apply for additional sick leave and, if not approved, will be placed on unpaid leave
Q: What happens if I come to work in instances when I should have been in self-quarantine?
• If an employee disregards the principles of self-quarantine as communicated, and attends work or interacts with customers (face to face), the employee will unnecessarily place colleagues and customers at risk
• In line with our intention to secure a safe working environment, disciplinary interventions will be followed with these employees
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THIRD PARTIES MATTERS3
Q: I am allowed to work at Old Mutual’s office. Can I invite a supplier to our workplace for an urgent meeting?
• The SA Government is following a risk-adjusted strategy aimed at easing the current lockdown restrictions. Going forward, the country’s lockdown would be assessed and managed over five alert levels, with each level having specific measures, protocols and regulations
• Within the current alert level, there is still a need for strong social distancing precautions and for people to avoid all non-essential travel / movement
• Therfore we do not allow for suppliers to enter into our workplace. Please continue to use alternative online mechanisms to engage your suppliers.
• We will review our decision as the Government shares information when the alert levels of national lockdown change
Q: What is the update on monthly fees payable to Greens’Cool, the Gym and the Sports Club? Is this on hold – or will members receive refunds?
See the detail below for each facility:
Greens’Cool
• Grade 0 and Grade R classes will continue for 2020, on-line support is offered by the school for these grades until classes return as per the Department of Education’s schedule
• School fees have been waived for April and May and refunds processed (May refunds will be processed as part of the June payroll)
• Going forward the full fees will be payable for the remainder of the year for Grade 0 & R
• Age groups from the Nursery to 3-4 has been cancelled and no further deductions will processed
Old Mutual Gym
• We are currently in the process of reviewing our contractual arrangements with the service provider
• Further feedback will be provided to all members by the end of June 2020
Old Mutual Sports Club
• The deductions will continue as per normal as all funds required for the different sporting codes affiliations would still need to be honoured to the respective bodies
• If you have any further queries, please email [email protected]
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MEDICAL MATTERS4Q: I tested positive for Covid-19 some time ago, remained in self-isolation and fully recovered. Can I contract the virus again?
It’s difficult to say at this stage as the immune response to Covid-19 is not yet fully understood. There have been a few cases reported in South Korea of patients that have tested positive shortly after recovery. Whether or not this is due to reinfection or reactivation is unknown.
Q: I would like enquire if there are measures in place to be tested for the virus, or if the only way to be tested is when you show symptoms.
The latest National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) criteria for Person Under Investigation (PUI) stipulates that only symptomatic individuals with a positive Covid-19, contact history of recent travel outside SA or individuals who have worked in a health facility caring for Covid-19 patients should be tested.
Q: Where can I get tested?
Testing can either be done at public health facilities or private laboratories i.e. Pathcare, Ampath and Lancet.
• Please check their websites for updated details
- For public facilities, pse visit www.nicd.ac.za/covid-19-testing-sites - For private laboratories: www.pathcare.co.za or call them on Tel: +27 21 596 3800 www.lancet.co.za/corona-virus-info-hub or call them on 0861 LANCET (526 238) www.ampath.co.za/covid-19-collection-sites• Please note that only individuals who meet the NICD criteria (as per above) will be tested
Q: We’ve read that it is beneficial to wash your hands in fairly warm water as this virus does not tolerate heat – is this correct? If so, is it possible to have warm water in our bathrooms?
• According to the World Health Organization, water temperature does not appear to affect microbe removal.
• Cold water is as effective as warm water provided the correct hand washing technique is used
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to avoid spreading the virus
- Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
- If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Q: How long can the Covid-19 survive out of the human body?
According to a recent article in the New England Journal of Medicine, Sars-Cov-2 can remain viable in the air for up to 3 hours and more than 72 hours on hard surfaces.
Q: Is the virus only transferable between human through bodily fluids or is it airborne?
The virus is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. You can become infected by either breathing in the virus if you are less than 1m from the infected person or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Q: If I am Immuno-compromised or pregnant, what should I do?
• Avoid exposure to the virus as much as possible e.g. crowded places like malls
• Follow the same precautionary measures as the general population
• Stay healthy
• Take Vitamin C supplements
• Get your flu vaccine
• Seek medical care as soon as you become symptomatic
• Adhere to your chronic medication
Q: Is there a general public cornonavirus information centre?
• You are welcome to visit www.sacoronavirus.co.za
• You can also use the contact numbers below
Public Hotline: 0800 029 999 WhatsApp Support Line: 0600-123456
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GENERAL MATTERS5
Q: How can I protect myself from getting infected with Covid-19?
(Source: World Health Organisation)
• Wash your hands frequently: Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands
• Maintain social distancing: Maintain a distance of at least 1.5 meters between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth: Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick
• Practice respiratory hygiene: This means covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately
• If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance
• Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider: Follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from Covid-19. They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves
Q: How can I protect others from getting sick?
• When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with your flexed elbow or a disposable tissue
• Throw the tissue into a closed bin immediately after use
• Clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water after coughing or sneezing and when caring for the sick
• Avoid close contact with others when you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as coughing, fever or difficult breathing
• If you are showing any of these symptoms, seek medical care early and share your recent travel history or suspected Covid-19 exposure with your healthcare provider
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Q: How should I take care of people in my home with suspected or confirmed Covid-19?
FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE ILL (FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS, FEVER & COUGHING)
• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand rub
• Stay at home and do NOT attend work, school or public places
• Rest, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food
• Stay in a separate room from other family members. Keep the room well ventilated and if possible, use a dedicated bathroom. If not possible, wear a mask and keep a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with your flexed elbow or use a disposable tissue and discard it immediately in a closed bin after use
• If you experience difficulty breathing, please call your healthcare provider immediately
FOR ALL MEMBERS OF THE HOUSEHOLD
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially aster coughing or sneezing, when you are preparing food, before eating, after using the bathroom, before and after caring for an ill person
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to the ill person and avoid sharing items, such as eating utensils, dishes and towels
• When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with your flexed elbow or use a disposable tissue and discard it immediately after use in a closed bin
• Monitor everyone’s health for symptoms such as fever, cough and if difficult breathing appears, call your healthcare facility immediately
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Q: I’m pregnant. How can I protect myself against Covid-19?
• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Maintain social distancing and keep a distance of at least 1.5 meters between yourself and other people
• Practice respiratory hygiene and cough or sneeze into your flexed elbow or into a disposable tissue
• If you have fever, cough or difficulty breathing, seek medical care immediately. Call beforehand and follow medical advice
Q: How do I cope with stress during this uncertain time?
• It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during a crisis. Talk to people you trust can help. Contact your friends, family or Old Mutual’s ICAS toll-free line on 0800 006 068
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle – including proper diet, sleep, exercise and social contacts with loved ones at home and by email / phone with other family and friends
• Don’t use smoking, alcohol or drugs to deal with your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a healthcare worker or counsellor. Have a plan, where to go to and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required
• Get the facts. Social media carries a lot of fake news so it is key to gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk to that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a credible source you can trust – such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) website or a local or public / state health agency
• Limit worry and agitation by lessening the time you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that you perceive as upsetting
• Draw on skills you have used in the past that have helped you to manage previous adversities in your life and use those skills to help you manage your emotions during the challenging time of this pandemic
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Q: How do I help children cope with stress during the Covid-19 crisis?
• Children may respond to stress in different ways – such as being more clingy, anxious, withdrawing, angry or agitated, etc. Respond to your child’s reaction in a supportive way, listening to their concerns and give them extra love and attention
• Children need adults’ love and attention during difficult times. Give them extra time and support. Remember to listen to them patiently, speak kindly and reassure them. If possible, make opportunities for your child to play and relax
• Try and keep children close to their parents and family members and avoid separating children and their caregivers where possible. If separation occurs (eg. hospitalization), ensure regular contact with children is maintained (eg via phone) to keep on reassure them
• Keep to regular routines and schedules as much as possible, or help create new ones in a new environment, including school/learning as well as time for safely playing and relaxing
• Provide facts about what is happening, explain what is going on and give children clear, practical information about how to reduce their risk of being infected by explaining the disease in plain words and simple concepts that they can understand
WHERE TO GET ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS?
• Please call our Old Mutual Employee Covid-19 Helpline on 0860 515 515
• Alternatively, you can continue to e-mail your questions to [email protected]
• All our important coronavirus information is on our dedicated Communications Portal. Do make time to read it thoroughly; use this link to access it.
• You can also call the 24-hour general public Covid-19 hotline: 0800 029 999