The pandemic has been unsettling. And unfortunately, many experts predict a second wave of Coronavirus cases this winter. So, how can you stay safe in the workplace? Here’s what you need to know with COVID.
Top Ways to Protect Yourself from COVID in the Workplace This Winter
1. Wash Your Hands
This sounds simple. However, according to the CDC, handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself from getting sick. To clean your hands properly, wet them down, lather with soap, scrub for twenty seconds (the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice), rinse and dry. Although alcohol-based hand sanitizer is another option, sanitizers aren’t as effective at killing germs as plain-old soap and water.
2. Social Distance
Because people without symptoms can spread Coronavirus, it’s important to keep six feet (or two arms’ length) between yourself and people who don’t live in your household. Most companies are supporting this effort by separating workspaces, reducing capacity in high-traffic areas and limiting the number of people in buildings.
3. Wear a Mask
Face masks can protect you from both catching and spreading COVID. (Remember, you may not know if you are sick.) If you’re having trouble finding a face-covering you like, check out USA Today’s ranking of The 10 Best Face Masks You Can Buy Online.
4. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
Once again, most businesses have risen to the occasion by hiring additional cleaning crews and/or increasing sanitizing measures. Nevertheless, it’s a smart idea to keep disinfecting wipes handy for high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, drawer/cupboard handles, desks, computers and phones. After all, research shows your keyboard probably is dirty than a toilet seat. Yuck!
5. Get a Flu Shot
While this year’s flu shot won’t protect you from Coronavirus, it WILL protect you from other respiratory viruses. And doctors say you can be infected with COVID-19 and the flu at the same time! Since a co-infection would put you in greater danger, taking any precautionary measures is in your best interest.
6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
The healthier you are, the better your chances of fighting off any disease. Plus, scientific evidence shows being overweight increases the risk of developing a severe case of COVID-19. So, now’s the time to start eating healthier and exercising. Check out our blog post for more tips on improving your health at work.
7. Stay Home If You Feel Sick
If you’re not feeling well, don’t put yourself or others at risk. At this point, most companies have strict screening procedures in place as well as policies for taking time off. The newly-passed Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) also helps to protect workers. This law requires certain employers to provide their workers with paid sick leave for reasons related to COVID-19.
Are You Hoping to Find Safer Job This Winter?
If you’re looking for a change of pace or a better-regulated work environment, Connectology is here for you. Our recruiters place talented candidates with top manufacturing organizations throughout the upper Midwest. Browse our available openings and discover your next job opportunity today!
