Chatham-Kent Public Health is trying to make sure employers and workplaces have all proper COVID-19 safety practices in place.
Michelle Bogaert says workplaces simply need to follow similar protocols as we are in the community.
“The two most important things to do is we need to practice at the workplace what we’re doing out in the community. Physical distancing as well as personal hand and health hygiene,” says Bogaert.
Bogaert says additional signage for employees and customers is recommended, as well as strict cleaning regimens and keeping customers outside of your facility if possible.
And of course – self-isolation AWAY FROM WORK is required for anyone who has traveled.
You can find more details at ckphu.com/covid19/
For employers and employees, the full list from Public Heath is below:
Workplaces can consider:
Physical Distancing at Work
Try to keep 2 metres of space between everyone in the workplace by doing the following:
- Spread out work stations if possible.
- Space out chairs in meeting rooms and work areas.
- Stagger break times, limit the use of cafeteria spaces and lunch rooms, encourage staff to eat at their desk or keep 2 metres apart when eating meals.
- Limit the number of people allowed in meeting rooms and small spaces.
- Ensure staff and clients/customers can keep 2 metres apart in entrances/exits, front desks, and checkout areas.
- Avoid shaking hands, hugs, and other physical contact.
- Try to meet virtually or over the phone if possible.
- Try to work from home if possible.
- Postpone or cancel in-person meetings if possible.
And work at keeping the work environment germ free:
Workplace Environment
- In entrance/exits or other high-touch areas offer hand sanitizer if possible.
- Post COVID-19 signs where staff and clients/customers can see, such as handwashing and screening signs (French resources also available at https://ckphu.com/information-for-workplaces/)
- Encourage clients or customers to wait in a spacious area or outside in vehicles if possible.
- Clean high-touch surfaces often such as:
- Handles, door knobs, buttons, light switches, railings, touch screens, countertops, debit machines, arms and backs of chairs, desks, computers, headsets, phones, etc.
- Have tissues and lined waste bins available.
Personal Health Hygiene
Practice and encourage employees and clients/customers to:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol content.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cover coughs/sneezes in elbow and wash hands after.
- Stay home from work if you are sick.
Whether you are at work or at home you need to practice personal health hygiene.
Remember
- A mask is only needed for the following reasons:
- Preventing the spread of respiratory droplets when someone has a fever or cough
- Reducing the risk of transmission when providing care to someone who is ill
- Reducing the risk of transmission for healthcare professionals
- Using a mask when it is not needed can increase the amount a person touches their face, increasing the risk for infection.
- Self-isolate for 14 days if someone has travelled outside Canada.
- Call the COVID-19 intake line at 519-355-1071 x 1900 for any questions.
- If you choose to wear protective gloves remember do not touch your face and remover them properly.
For Employers:
Province of Ontario COVID Hotline 1-888-44-3654
