Despite the pandemic, some businesses need to operate in person, so it’s important to figure out how to keep your workplace safe during COVID-19.
While many businesses have adapted to working remotely, there are some industries where being on the job in person is necessary to keep the business afloat. This means your top priority should be the safety and security of the employees that put themselves at risk by going into work. Let’s take a look at how to keep your workplace safe during COVID-19 so you know what steps to take.
Safety Protocols
The first step you must take is developing protocols and procedures so that you and your employees can effectively communicate and stay on the same page. Enforcing CDC guidelines such as requiring a mask and encouraging social distancing is a great start, but you must also consider the proper way to go about dealing with any outbreaks. What should you do if the virus is in your workplace? What should an employee do when they think they’ve come into contact with someone infected? Having a clear and decisive protocol that responds to these emergencies will prevent confusion and panic.
Enact Quarantines
Continuing on the topic of COVID-19 worming its way into your workplace, it’s necessary to act swiftly and decisively if an employee is discovered to have contracted the virus. If someone is showing symptoms or suspects they were in close contact with someone else who had the virus, your immediate response should be to have that employee quarantine and isolate themselves for at least 14 days. They should obviously isolate themselves for longer if their COVID-19 results are positive. While you may worry about being down an employee, this swift action can possibly save yourself and others from getting infected. So, for the safety of everyone, isolate any potential infections immediately.
Thorough Sanitation
Now that you have your employees following guidelines and aware of the proper procedures, it’s important you take a look at your workplace. To prevent it from becoming a hotbed of germs and bacteria, sanitation is vital inkeeping your workplace safe during COVID-19. But it’s not enough to just wipe down your business with soap and water. One of the best investments you can make right now is utilizing professional disinfection services who have the equipment and professional knowledge to thoroughly clean and disinfect your business.
Adjust Policies
Your employees’ job security is also at incredible risk during this turbulent time. To make sure no one takes any risks that could put your business in danger, adjust your company policies to make sure your employees are still making their salary and can provide for themselves and their families. The more secure they feel about their job, the less likely they are to try and hide COVID-19 symptoms in an attempt to keep working.