September 30, 2020 – The Illinois Department of Labor has announced the launch of Back to Business Illinois, a free, voluntary service that will connect small businesses with 250 employees or fewer with consultants that will help businesses evaluate and address workplace safety and COVID-19 related health issues. The consultants will create a plan for small businesses that helps promote a safe, healthy, and productive environment for customers and workers. Back to Business Illinois health and safety consultants in IDOL’s Workplace Safety and Health Consultation Division will assist local small businesses in auditing their physical operation, identify best practices, and find ways to efficiently implement them.
“While this pandemic has affected Illinois’ small businesses in unexpected ways, IDOL remains committed to promoting health and safety during every step of recovery. We are excited to offer this new program in support of our small business owners’ efforts to keep workers and customers safe as these businesses continue to operate,” said IDOL Director Michael Kleinik.
Consultants will be paired with applicants based on their expertise and specific needs in order to customize the best plan for the business. The IDOL will also offer a free, voluntary “Back to Business” certification that is designed to show workers and customers that the small business was a participant of the program. Businesses can complete a series of online modules and then work to institute the necessary practices to promote a safe work environment. The online guidance and education program will highlight areas such as basic infection prevention, physical space modification, infectious disease planning, employee monitoring, and workplace flexibility.
The program is non-punitive and no fines or citations are associated with it. The design of the program is to be a benefit to help empower small businesses in Illinois to operate safely.
