The airwaves are saturated with this topic right now, but a lot of the coverage is concentrated on the “politics” of the shutdown. Because this is a workplace column, I wanted to focus on the effect the shutdown is having on the employees affected; and on those they serve (that’s us). So, I’ve rounded up some factoids and statistics that may surprise you, and that illustrate how –regardless of politics- we are all affected.

800,000 – The approximate number of workers affected and not currently being paid.

400,000 – The approximate number of workers considered “essential”. They’re required to work without pay (*TSA agents, air traffic controllers, coast guard). They’ll eventually be paid when the shutdown ends.

400,000 – The approximate number of workers on furlough. Not allowed to report to work at all. Will never be paid (although some legislation might change that). They’re essentially on unpaid administrative leave indefinitely. Many are applying for unemployment.

Three – The number of people that have died on National Parks Service lands since the shutdown. Limited staffing has raised questions about visitor safety: A man who fell into a river in Yosemite National Park , and a 14 yr old girl apparently fell 700ft from an overlook in AZ.

Some parks have remained open, but others suffered temporary or partial closings as officials struggle to keep up with unsupervised visitors. Some volunteers have stepped in to assist in cleanup efforts.

Your lettuce – Make sure you wash it well. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has suspended all routine inspections of food processing facilities. Regular inspections, which help stop foodborne illness, aren’t happening.

Income tax refunds. They might be delayed. According to the Wall Street Journal only about 10% of the 80,000 IRS employees are currently working. Generally they don’t answer questions or pay tax refunds during a shutdown. So, if you’re one of those people who like to get their refund ASAP, you’ll have to have some patience.

The U.S. Postal Service – Good news! They keep delivering mail. I didn’t know it, but they’re an independent agency whose operations are funded by sales of postage and services, not taxes, Source: npr.org

How about you? Have you been affected by the shutdown? I’d love to hear from you. Until then, avoid the airport if possible.

*Ironically, although considered essential, TSA employees are among the lowest-paid federal workers.

©Copyright Eva Del Rio

Eva Del Rio is creator of HR Box™ – tools for small businesses and startups. Send questions to Eva@evadelrio.com