What lessons we could learn from COVID-19
What lessons we could learn from COVID-19
Considering the past emergency cases related to Covid-19 and local quarantine measures in Kazakhstan, we do not exclude that business could face the new challenges with the second wave of pandemic issues. With this regard our lawyers pointed out how business could prepare if the same pandemic issues occur.
Our practice shows that the most organizations and companies were not prepared for the state of emergency and daily business operations have been disrupted by state acts and different regulations.
Following measures could be considered for the possible second wave or any other pandemic challenge:
1) The companies should comply with the employment laws. Therefore it is highly recommended to include into current employment contracts possibility to work on distance. We recommend preparing the orders and acts in advance.
2) We recommend updating the internal labor safety rules regarding the distance workers – there have been amendments to the Kazakh labor legislation in May 2020, stating that the labor safety rules shall apply to distant workers.
3) The companies should be ready to apply different schemes of compensation payments for employees in companies that suspended their activity. It could be vacation without payment or compensation payment for suspended activity.
4) The companies should update all local acts for protecting sensitive and confidential information for distance workers.
5) The companies should avoid any claims and risks related to contracts obligations with clients and suppliers. Kazakhstan Supreme Court rules about liability, performance and breach of a contract during COVID-19 situation could help for lawyers to support business operations.
6) The construction, trade and online working industries should follow certain restrictions. Our practice shows that it is better to purchase the necessary equipment, masks, sanitizers and etc. in advance. We also recommend making a schedule of duties, changing internal standards and choosing the right options regarding employment matters.
Synergy Partners Law Firm could assist you in the preparation for the emergency cases and share their practice.
This legal insight was prepared by Synergy Partners teams for tax and employment practices. Lawyers Ms. Symbat Tursyngali and Mr. Nurzhan Stamkulov were involved.