COVID-19 IN THE WORKPLACE: A CASE STUDY IN AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY

Abstract

Since the first case in Indonesia was announced on March 2nd, 2020, the Indonesian government has tried to suppress the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infection in workers by issuing regulations related to the prevention and control of Covid-19 in the workplace. The agricultural sector is labor intensive so many workers are employed in this sector, besides housing for employees in the agricultural area is very close. With a positive case of Covid-19, it will increase the spread of infection. The purpose of this paper is to provide in-depth reporting on the role of companies, especially the agricultural sector, in maintaining worker safety by preventing and formulating strategies for dealing with COVID-19 in the workplace. This study will investigate how is the compliance an agriculture industry to Health Minister’s Decree HK.01.07/MENKES/328/2020 regarding Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Covid-19 in the Office and Industrial Workplace in Supporting Business Continuity in a Pandemic Situation and Manpower Minister’s Circular Letter regarding Business Continuity Plan in Facing the Covid-19 Pandemic and the Covid-19 Transmission Prevention Protocol in the Company. Methodology used in this study in including COVID-19 company document review, interview and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). There are 18 variables are evaluated including business continuity plan, Tracing, Tracking, and Testing (3T), Work From Home (WFH), education, and employee monitoring and/or enforcement. Data was analysed using thematic and content analysis. Result suggested that agriculture industry has implemented health protocols including comply to government directives and ensuring business continuity by keeping workers healthy at workplace. There are several area for improvement including increase worker awareness and compliance with the company's COVID-19 prevention program that emphasizes sustainable behavior and sustainable vigilance.