Health,Healing and Wellness: Combat Corona Initiatives at Mumbai Refinery of HPCL

Abstract

The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic during the year 2020 affected various facets of every business. Emphasis on employee health and wellness, digitalization, virtual workplaces and online business became the new normal. This article is a narrative about the multipronged approach adopted by Mumbai refinery of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), an Oil & Gas Central Public Sector Enterprise, towards ensuring continuity of business as well as the health and well-being of its employees and their family members during COVID-19 pandemic. HPCL being in oil and gas sector, which is categorized as ‘essential goods and services’, continued all business as usual even during the nationwide lockdown to ensure uninterrupted supply of petroleum products. The management of the refinery showed exceptional agility and resilience in responding to the challenge and connecting with employees to meet the objective of enhanced employee engagement. Existing policies, systems and procedures were remodelled, and several additional measures were taken to upskill employees to work and perform in the new scenario. The HR team demonstrated sensitivity in curating initiatives towards ensuring health and well-being of employees and their family members as well. The happiness and mindfulness activities organized by HR team helped them overcome fear and anxiety, bond together and connect. Patriotism that stirred out of all these activities kept their spirit high to ensure business continuity. Consequently, Mumbai refinery not only maintained the productivity to serve the nation during the critical period but also witnessed a cultural transition into a ‘caring culture’ focused on employee health, healing and well-being.