Many countries have managed to flatten the COVID-19 growth curve. The testing has been going on at full pace. Several vaccines (with varying safety and efficacy data) have arrived. Millions of people worldwide have returned to work.
But, the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. The virus is still lurking around us.
Therefore, it’s important to diligently follow all COVID-19 safety protocols, especially when you venture outside of your home and go to work.
Here in this post, we will shed light on the most important COVID-19 safety tips that you should follow in the workplace. Read on.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #1: Don’t Let Your Guard Down – Wear a Mask
It can be difficult to put on a mask or face covering for the entire duration of your work shift.
Yes, healthcare professionals put on PPEs (Personal Protective Equipment) for several hours at a stretch but most other people end up using masks only when they get on the public transport or go shopping.
When at work, do not simply slide the mask into your side pocket.
Consider wearing the mask each time you are in close proximity to another person, especially when you are talking to someone. Now is not the time to let your guard down.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #2: Avoid Touching Your Face
The novel Coronavirus can survive on a variety of surfaces for different durations.
Even if there has been just one infected employee in the workplace, traces of the virus can be present on –
- Metal items such as doorknobs, jewelry, etc., for up to five days
- Wooden furniture for up to four days
- Stainless steel items such as sinks, pots, pans, refrigerators, etc., for up to three days
- Plastics such as common seats, elevator buttons, stationery items, etc. for up to three days
- Cardboard for up to 24 hours
Similarly, the virus can remain active on glass, aluminum, fabrics, and ceramics. There is a chance the virus can accidentally land on your hands. So, be sure not to touch your face in the workplace.
Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer before you blow your nose, touch your face, or eat something. In fact, sanitize your hands each time you enter or leave the building.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #3: Minimize Contact
Do not shake hands and avoid all direct contact. Maintain a distance of at least 2 meters from your co-workers in the workplace.
Remember to keep your distance from your co-workers during in-person meetings. This is when most people lower their guard.
When possible, consider hosting online meetings and avoid gathering in crowds in the workplace.
The pandemic has been around for over a year and if you are yet to get the vaccine, you are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19.
Even when you do get vaccinated, the public health authorities advise you still take the precautions.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #4: Open a Window
Good ventilation protects you against airborne transmission of COVID-19 when you are indoors.
So, open the doors and windows.
Use fans to circulate air inside the office, retail space, workshop, etc.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #5: Using Common Areas
Places such as waiting rooms, dining halls, cafeterias, lobbies, indoor sports facilities, and locker rooms are frequented by workers in most medium and large-scale companies.
The novel Coronavirus can spread more easily through indirect exposure in common areas. But it isn’t always possible to completely avoid common areas in a corporate building. To minimize the exposure, try to reduce the time you spend in common areas.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #6: Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces
Be sure to disinfect your desk and the items you use on a daily basis. This should be first thing you do at the beginning of your work shift.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) recommends EPA-approved disinfectants for maximum protection against the novel Coronavirus. When such disinfectants are not available, you can also use a mixture of household bleach and water.
In case you are disinfecting high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, shared printers, and counters in common eating areas, put on gloves and a mask to minimize the exposure.
Covid-19 Workplace Safety Tip #7: Sanitize Your Hands
This is one of the important COVID-19 workplace safety tips that many people simply choose to ignore.
When you press the elevator button, go to the washroom, or use shared equipment in the workplace, be sure to sanitize your hands with an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer. According to the CDC, you should use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
What Should You Do If You Get Sick?
If you get sick, it’s a good idea to stay home. Avoid contact with family members and other people as much as possible, except of course for medical care. Call ahead in case you plan to visit your doctor.
Get yourself tested for COVID-19. Rapid antigen testing kits are readily available now. If the test result comes out negative, you may resume your normal routine.
If you test positive for COVID-19, be sure to inform your HR manager or supervisor at once. Your employer would have to alert all your co-workers who might have contracted the virus. They may also need to isolate and sanitize your workstation to prevent the spread of the virus.
The Author of this article is Leon Reingold. Leaon is the Editor-in-Chief at Drugtestsinbulk.com, a nationwide supplier of drug and alcohol testing products online.
Pic Credit: Engin Akyurt from Pixabay
