COVID19 Spotlights Need for Safe Hygiene Practices in the Workplace

COVID19 is reinforcing the need for workplaces to follow good hygiene practices to help keep workers safe. Protect workers and reduce the risk of infection in the workplace by using the following strategies:

• The most crucial element to minimize the potential for infection is through thorough and regular hand-washing with soap and water. Use hand-sanitizer if hand-washing is not possible. Set up hand-sanitizer stations and/or hand washing stations where possible.
• Use tissues when coughing/sneezing or use the crook of the arm if tissues are not available. Be sure to turn away from others when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissues and wash hands immediately after.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth, particularly after coming in contact with handrails, doorknobs and other surfaces that have been touched. Do not share glasses, dishes or cutlery.
• Stay home if feeling ill. Employers should also reinforce that workers can and should stay home when they are not feeling well. Have a plan in place for absences that may be necessary due to illness.

For more information, see the CDC's website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html.