Battle River Power Coop has adapted to COVID-19 in a number of ways, including directing staff to work from home when tasks permit. This strategy allows the essential work of electricity delivery to continue while looking after the health and well-being of employees.
One of many learnings from COVID-19 is that we are all in this together, and there are many other rural Albertans whose workplaces have recently been altered, including those in the agricultural community who also work off the farm. If you are among the fortunate employees able to continue working while at home, we offer a few considerations:
Be electrically safe:
- Working from home may mean that you now have an additional laptop, desktop, or other electronic devices in your home. Be careful not to overload circuits.
- If extension cords are required, check them for damage before plugging in.
- Place cords so they do not create a tripping hazard.
More people in the home means more electricity usage. Be electrically efficient:
- Shut off electronics and room lights when not in use.
- Unplug computers and other devices at the end of the workday or shut them off with a power bar.
- Open the curtains to utilize natural light as much as possible.
Involve children in electrical efficiency:
- Encourage children to do some of their school assignments outdoors.
- Teach by example, by filling the dishwasher to capacity before running, and washing full loads of clothes.
- Dry clothes outside.
Look after yourself:
- Take breaks.
- Take time for family.
Working from home is just one of many adaptations Albertans are making to our present situation and it will be very interesting to see the long-term outcomes. Will more employees work from home? Will more meetings take place online or by conference call? Which tasks are accomplished just as effectively from home, and when is it beneficial for staff to be physically present in their workplace?
We’ll find out, post COVID-19.
