Stop The Spread

COVID-19, a new coronavirus illness, is causing a developing scenario with varying effects throughout the world and between states. Even while external evidence indicate that some are anxious to reopen things, we must all do what is right, not what is fashionable at the time. Simple logic and logistics may indicate that extra time is required. First and foremost, flexibility must be prioritized in these decisions and procedures.

• Each company should have enough quantities of hand sanitizer, cleaning/disinfecting supplies, and personal protective equipment for your workers for both safety and peace of mind. Because these items are in such high demand right now, it may be difficult to obtain what you want early on.

• Keep in mind that everyone's life outside of the office will be different. Because access to child care will not be restored immediately, some employees may continue to require flexible work hours.

• Similarly, access to transportation to and from work places may be difficult for some employees, as physical distance requirements may limit pre-COVID-19 carpooling arrangements. Furthermore, public transit may not be restored for some time. Even if public transit is available, some employees will shun it for a time for their own safety. Will some workers need to drive to and from the office if they previously relied on public transportation? Is there sufficient parking for them?

• Workspaces where individuals used to work in close quarters will need to be rearranged and/or staff coverage staggered in order to maintain enough physical separation. You may also want to implement a lunch break timetable to minimise too much overlap in a tiny kitchen or break room area.

• Virus-proofing your business is similar to child-proofing your house. What high transit doors are you able to prop open? Can disinfectants be placed in high-touch, high-volume areas (such as near the copy machine, refrigerator, and microwave)?

These are only a few of the questions that must be addressed.