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Companies that do not meet the Biden administration’s vaccination obligations weigh the risk of losing staff if COVID-19 vaccination is required.
Columbus, Ohio — It’s already difficult to hire more people as the pandemic continues until next summer. Companies are trying to discourage someone from applying for a job, or worse, to prevent employees from leaving their jobs.
Vaccine mandates can be the latest debate that can cause employers to re-guess vaccination requirements. This month, the Biden administration announced the mission of a large company with more than 100 employees, but for small businesses, it forces owners to make a choice.
Wolf’s Ridge Brewery in Columbus has decided to implement vaccine requirements this week. Co-owner Bob Szuter states that only 5% of the 72 staff are unvaccinated.
“Still, 5% has a disproportionate impact on the rest of our employees and the business as a whole,” says Szuter. “We looked back and said that this had to happen.”
According to Szuter, the pandemic reduced headcount by about 10%, but it was still worth the decision.
“If we lose those people, it’s okay for the benefit of our business at the end of the day. Hopefully it won’t happen and it doesn’t look like it.”
The Ohio Chamber of Commerce says its members had to make strict decisions about fulfilling their vaccine obligations.
“Sure, many employers say they’ll never ask their employees to get vaccinated,” said Keith Lake, vice president of government for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. However, many employers are already aware that they are struggling to get the job done, whether they may need the vaccine or not. They are already in short supply. increase.”
Lake was among Ohio companies on which rules to comply with when the Occupational Health and Safety Department wrote a federal order, and if the Ohio House passed HB 248, which limits employer rights under vaccination rules. He says he is listening to the confusion.
“The only thing we can say right now is to do business as usual,” says Lake. “If desired, employees can be required to be vaccinated. This is the current state of the law. No need to do so. Decide whether to require vaccines or other health and safety protocols at work. We believe it depends on the employer. “
The Ohio Manufacturers Association told 10TV that it was concerned that workers could resign due to mandatory vaccines. According to OMA, Ohio currently has an estimated 30,000 manufacturing jobs open.
“The Ohio Manufacturers Association supports employers’ right to determine their own policies for the workplace. Regardless of government level (federal, state, local), businesses are required or prevented from being vaccinated. You shouldn’t do that, “said Jamie Karl, Managing Director of Communications Services. “But some members have expressed concern that federal orders may hinder efforts to vaccinate those who are not actually vaccinated-employers’ responsibilities, costs, and labor. It will increase your lack of power. “
Karl states that OMA supports COVID-19 vaccination, but it is not mandatory.
Source: https://ohionewstime.com/columbus-smes-mandating-employees-to-vaccine/257115/