Cross-functional teamwork keeps employees safe and informed

When COVID-19 first began to spread in March 2020, Cheniere took immediate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of our people and communities, while maintaining the continuity of our business operations. Over the last two years, an advisory group co-led by executives and experts from Human Resources (HR), Legal, and Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) has led our coordinated response to the pandemic by mobilizing resources and coordinating information sharing and action. 

From day one, the advisory team established and implemented stringent COVID-19 workplace protocols at all Cheniere locations, including a Pandemic Policy; mask and PPE requirements; social distancing; health-check questionnaires and on-site biometric screenings; enhanced cleaning and sanitation standards; and tightened travel procedures and visitor policies. The team also created a detailed case management system — including contact tracing and follow-up actions based on level of exposure — and has managed the system consistently, with modifications based on changing conditions and scientific guidance. 

Throughout the constantly evolving crisis, the team has remained nimble by assessing and adapting quickly and seamlessly as new information and developments have emerged based on additional variants and case trends. Response measures and contingent planning have varied based on local and regional conditions, but always in accordance with applicable guidance from the CDC or other local regulatory bodies. The team has worked closely with community leaders, medical organizations, trade associations and regulatory agencies, seeking guidance from the Texas Medical Center and benchmarking with peer companies via the Greater Houston Partnership. Similar outreach has occurred in our international locations.

While the team’s plans and processes have evolved continuously, its organizational management structure has remained intact. The advisory team continues to meet weekly and provide regular updates to executive leadership.

We have learned a lot over the last two years. Throughout the pandemic, the advisory team has prioritized transparency and maintained a steady stream of communications on Cheniere’s policies, processes and decision-making to ensure employees have up-to-date facts and FAQs on resources such as mental health support services provided through our Employee Assistance Program. Communications are issued regularly from the heads of HR and HSE via email and the company intranet. 

Responding to the pandemic has redoubled for us the importance of multi-directional communication and gathering feedback from our employees. In response, we have established forums for employees to ask questions and share ideas and suggestions to keep everyone informed.

Above all, we’ve been reminded about the power of teamwork and collaboration in managing through challenging, constantly changing scenarios. And we are working even harder to facilitate a collaborative team-based culture across the organization.