As the situation surrounding COVID-19 (the illness caused by the novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2) continues to evolve, we are sharing this update on ShelterPoint’s preparedness and precautionary measures we are taking. On a high level, these include employees working remotely and servicing our customers while keeping our employees safe. We have a dedicated team monitoring the constantly evolving information closely to assure our business continuity plan is functioning effectively. As of now, ShelterPoint has taken the following preventive steps:
ShelterPoint’s Commitment to our Clients
Keeping our commitment to our customers remains a priority during the COVID-19 outbreak. Some of the steps we have taken to mitigate potential impact on processing and paying claims, answering questions, and providing information, include:
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Cross-training staff on critical functions to help to minimize service interruptions or delays.
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Identify critical priority functions and shift resources to support these areas.
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Testing technology to ensure we are able to shift critical tasks as needed.
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Continuous pandemic planning that accounts for different variables and scenarios, such as increase in claim volume or closure of our buildings.
Protecting ShelterPoint Employees
The health and safety of our employees is very important to us. We have already put into place social distancing steps to reduce staff density in our offices and thereby help minimize COVID-19 exposure to our employees. This includes:
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Suspending business travel and attendance at conferences or similar large events.
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Limiting in-person meetings with our brokers and clients wherever possible.
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Requiring employees who return from certain travel to work from home and “self-quarantine” for at least 2 weeks.
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Enabling and directing a growing number of employees to work from home.
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We have deployed technological capabilities to facilitate an increasing number of employees to work remotely.
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Implementing enhanced workspace cleaning to help limit the spread of germs for those who currently remain in the office.
As the situation evolves, we are prepared to add additional protective measures.
What to know about COVID-19 (novel Coronavirus) and state-mandated NY Disability and Paid Family Leave
We have received many question about COVID-19 and how it relates to NY State Disability (DBL) and Paid Family Leave. You can read our running list of FAQs here.
ShelterPoint Continues to Closely Monitor the Situation
We will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 outbreak and remain flexible to adapt quickly under these hard-to-predict circumstances. All of us at ShelterPoint are dedicated to keeping you informed. Check back here for updates as things continue to evolve. If you have questions email customerservice@shelterpoint.com.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal counsel. Please consult with an appropriate professional for legal and compliance advice. Any Disability Benefits Law (DBL) and/or Paid Family Leave (PFL) information is as of the blog post’s date stamp; it is based on the applicable statutes and regulation, and may change as regulations evolve or NY State issues guidance regarding DBL or PFL regulations. Have more questions? Email us at pflquestions@shelterpoint.com