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Remodeling in the office
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Remodeling in the office
Discuss workforce management, performance management, retention, communication, motivation, contributing to business results and other topics.
We have an office that is undergoing extensive remodeling including putting up walls, painting...all that. I am wondering what will happen if the paint fumes, for example, bother an employee and they
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Forums » Topic Forums » General Forum » Remodeling in the office
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Remodeling in the office
posted at 7/24/2009 8:17 AM EDT
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Posts: 57
First: 6/16/2006 Last: 7/20/2010 |
We have an office that is undergoing extensive remodeling including putting up walls, painting...all that. I am wondering what will happen if the paint fumes, for example, bother an employee and they need to leave. Should we suggest they use their PTO time, allow them to take this as unpaid, or pay them for that time? We've not dealt with this and, while we don't anticipate a problem it's always good to have a plan. The office will be open-for-business during the remodeling. Appreciate any input. |
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Remodeling in the office
posted at 7/24/2009 10:20 AM EDT
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Posts: 1103
First: 3/16/2007 Last: 8/19/2011 |
You are right to be concerned about potential hazerds during remodeling. Not only paint fumes but dust and any accident related to the actual construction. I would exercise extreme caution during this period and keep your employee's well informed. Unpaid single day furloughs during certain periods could be an option. Of course that would only apply to FLSA non-exempt employees. |
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Remodeling in the office
posted at 7/24/2009 10:46 AM EDT
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Posts: 3
First: 3/16/2009 Last: 7/24/2009 |
This could definitely cause problems for anyone with asthma, allergies, etc. I think you are wise to strategize now, especially if this is going to extend over a period of time vs just a couple of days of inconvenience for your staff. |
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Remodeling in the office
posted at 8/3/2009 12:27 PM EDT
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Posts: 64
First: 4/18/2002 Last: 7/16/2010 |
I work in the construction industry and we are often required to work evening or night shifts to accommodate businesses that wish to stay open during our work.
I realize you are probably not the person scheduling the remodel work, but if it becomes a big enough problem you might want to suggest that the construction crews change their schedule. |
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Remodeling in the office
posted at 8/3/2009 1:08 PM EDT
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Posts: 464
First: 6/30/2004 Last: 11/22/2010 |
In our shop, the staff will complain the next work day after a paint job. For some reason, they have very little tolerance for any sort of strong smell.
Many want a paid day off, but it is hard to differentiate between someone who really has an issue, with someone who is trying to take advantage. I guess it impacts different people in different way. No real answer here, just lamenting that some will make an issue out of it, even if it does not really affect them. |
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Remodeling in the office
posted at 8/6/2009 5:36 AM EDT
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Posts: 64
First: 4/18/2002 Last: 7/16/2010 |
There are OSHA-allowable levels of fumes, particulates, etc. If it is a burden to the company to pay employees for days off while construction is completed, you could monitor the environment for fumes and dust particulates to be sure they do not reach harmful levels. Any employees who request the day off while these levels are allowable should be required to take it as a vacation or personal day.
Allowing employees to work in OSHA-allowable levels of fumes or particulates is NOT irresponsible. |
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