Preparing for the second wave of COVID-19
Post date: Nov 16, 2020 7:19:42 PM
Occupational health and safety expert Capt. Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, observes that by most practices of remaining businesses today, the workplace has taken on a hybrid approach by requiring only a part of their operations to report to the office, while the rest work from home. The reality is there is still a risk out there, which puts office workers in danger. Here are some ways to prepare for the second wave of COVID-19 in the workplace. Continue with the safety measures that work Most of the initial precautionary reminders emphasized at the start of the pandemic are now rules that most workforces already know by heart. This is all part of the new normal, and they should be kept in place. Continue cleaning the office frequently by disinfecting the workspace periodically, multiple times in the workday. Fashion out dividers that will allow employees to see each other and communicate effectively on work tasks while maintaining social distancing. Prepare the proper protective equipment in the workplace by always bringing a face mask, face shield, and your trusty bottle of disinfectant spray.
Anticipate a second wave While the previous part of this blog is already common in many business practices, the key to dealing with the future is the anticipation of a second wave. It's really the kind of thing that you hope won't happen but prepare for, just the same. Stock up on essential supplies in the office. You don't want to run out of these, especially as the second wave of COVID-19 will come unannounced. At any given time, your workplace must have a reasonable amount of supplies to last a few days, like consumable items and even food, in case a total lockdown is initiated. More importantly, identify vulnerabilities in your operations. Think of the steps you need to take in case one of your employees falls ill. Catalog a list of places visited by each employee so that contact tracing is easier to do. Create a plan if one or some of your suppliers cannot deliver what you need.With more than a decade of service in occupational safety and health, Capt. Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, is an expert in biological safety, field medical operations, biosecurity, occupational safety and health, infectious disease epidemiology, environmental health services, and occupational health and wellness programs. For similar reads, visit this page. Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, or the United States Government.