Medical experts across the country are predicting a surge of Coronavirus when winter weather hits. According to The Washington Post, cases across the U.S. could peak as early as November or as late as February.
So, how can you prepare your warehouse for a second wave of COVID?
Establish Cleaning Protocols
Although there’s some debate as to how long COVID-19 lives on objects, the CDC says “the cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection” is a best practice. Keeping your facility clean can prevent the spread of Coronavirus as well as other respiratory illnesses and stomach bugs. (Scientists DO know norovirus can last on surfaces for weeks!) If your company hasn’t already appointed or hire a cleaning crew. Pay special attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs and elevator buttons, railings, shared computers, tables, chairs, countertops and sinks.
Encourage Everyone to Follow the Rules
After months of a new normal, many people are beginning to experience quarantine fatigue. And this, in turn, can cause them to take the rules less seriously. Frequently remind your employees how actions such as wearing face masks, social distancing, hand washing and staying home when you aren’t feeling well ARE saving lives. Consider making general daily/weekly announcements, placing posters around your plant or giving gentle reminders as needed.
Control Entry Points
Even if your company and your employees are following all the recommended regulations, COVID could still enter your facility from the outside world. Be sure delivery personal, vendors and customers are properly screened before entering your plant. Effective strategies could include performing temperature checks at the door and/or requiring guests to complete COVID forms before entry.
Know Your Supply Chain
Throughout the spring and summer, many businesses found themselves dealing with not only a global pandemic but also supply shortages. During a second wave of COVID, these shortages could be better or worse. Therefore, you should know where your materials originate. This will help your organization to anticipate problems and develop backup plans. If you DO anticipate supply trouble on the horizon, now is the time to think about substitutions and workarounds.
Support Your Workforce
When much of the world went into lockdown in the early spring, most warehouse employees were deemed essential and continued reporting to work. Of course, this created a stressful situation. Your team members may have been worried about their own health AND the wellbeing of their families. Throughout the next few months, let your employees know how much you appreciate their efforts and provide the resources they need to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Also, clearly outline your business’s plan for dealing with a potential outbreak. Knowing what to expect if something does go wrong will allow your team to feel more protected and secure.
Does Your Warehouse Need Additional Employees to Prepare for a Second Wave of COVID?
Connectology places top manufacturing talent with organizations throughout the upper Midwest. Our recruiters can help you find the controller, manager or engineer you need for 2020 and beyond. Learn more about the advantages of partnering with Connectology today!