8 Ways You Can Continue to Stay Safe at Work While in a Pandemic

If you’re on that #WFHgrind also known as a work-from-home routine, then you are far less likely to be exposed to the coronavirus. However, if your job has been deemed essential the odds of you coming into contact with the virus are greater. Here is what you can do to keep yourself and others as safe as possible while at work.

The first three tips should come as no surprise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states these in its guidelines:

1) Wear a mask
It is definitely not the most comfortable or fashionable but, they’re put in place to keep both you and those around you safe.

2) Social Distance
Even when masked, staying at least six feet apart from co-workers is a good rule of thumb. Avoid sharing desks, keyboards, remotes, and other work-related tools within the office. This will reduce the spread of bacteria.

3) Wash your hands
Everyone knows you should do this after using the restroom, but increasing the frequency of handwashing and the duration throughout your day it will leave you being safe rather than sorry.

These next tips might not be as widely known, however, they are just as important in minimizing your risk.

1) Stay off crowded elevators
Why not take the stairs and get a couple more steps in your day to avoid breaking social distance?
2) Use large conference rooms
By using large conference rooms instead of small ones, your team will be able to maintain social distance and still meet face to face.
3) Clean and sanitize your workspace
Get in the habit of bringing your own cleaning supplies such as sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer to the office to wipe your workstation down in the morning and before you leave.
4) Wash your masks often
Many times people take off their masks after a long day at work, place them in their car, and put the same masks on the very next day when they are about to head into the office. According to John Hopkins Medicine, you should, “clean your mask after every wearing. This reduces the risk of spreading the coronavirus or other germs.”
5) Encourage your coworkers to be responsible
Following all these tips will ensure you are being a responsible citizen. Another part of your duty is to encourage your co-workers to minimize their risk as well. By doing this, it’s a win-win for everyone involved!

Sources:
https://www.self.com/gallery/best-cleaning-products
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-how-to-care-for-your-face-mask