The COVID-19 pandemic has given an entirely new significance to the old adage, “Give me some space.” Social distancing has become part of everyone’s vocabulary and lifestyle over the last several months.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) strongly recommends workers socially distance, and follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for social distancing.
Accomplishing this in many workplaces and environments can be a challenge. SafetyPro Resources, LLC wants to provide some important information and helpful strategies to assist employers and employees in the battle to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Although certain work must be carried out and the overall economy cannot realistically be shut down, cases of COVID-19 are again on the rise. COVID-19 spreads easily between people, especially if they are in close contact. The risk is even higher for those who remain in close contact for longer than 15 minutes, especially indoors.
The virus spreads through droplets expelled from the mouth or nose when a person coughs or sneezes, and these particles can land on common surfaces. Others touch these surfaces and then touch their mouth or nose, infecting themselves without even knowing it. This is likely a common method of transmission on job sites where workers touch the same surfaces.
Social distancing, or keeping at least a six-foot distance between yourself and others, reduces the risk of catching the virus or passing it on to someone else. It is believed that droplets carrying the virus particles are unlikely to carry that distance. Also, refraining from touching anything that isn’t absolutely necessary is important to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Many employees have had the opportunity to work from home and have much more control over their working environment. Others do not enjoy this privilege. Many workers must go to where the work is located, and the nature of their duties makes it impossible to “take it home.” Such is the case with almost all of those in construction-related industries.
Some practical and logistical obstacles that make social distancing at work a challenge include:
Beyond the civil and moral duty for everyone to do everything possible to stop the spread of COVID-19, there are occupational health and safety regulations in place that seek to ensure a safe work environment for everyone. OSHA has published a bulletin with recommended guidance for social distancing at work. SafetyPro Resources, LLC also recommends the following tips:
SafetyPro Resources, LLC can also help your company learn more about legal considerations in the workplace regarding COVID-19. Certain laws for the disabled still apply in spite of the coronavirus, and they may have even more significance now. Also, The Families First Coronavirus Response Act entitles workers in most jobs to more paid family medical leave in the event they need to take time off to care for sick family members.
For more assistance with safety issues in your company, especially those connected with COVID-19, call or message us online today.