Getting workplaces ready for COVID-19 under WHO guidelines

The whole world is almost in a renovation stage with the influence of COVID-19. Resuming our lives, especially in workplaces will be along with the adoption of certain habits and practices. This new normal will be at organizational levels as well. The World Health Organisation has released a document for workplaces that embodies the prevention and management techniques of COVID-19. It also provides methods for getting workplaces ready in case the community is affected by the novel virus.

Spread of COVID-19

When someone who has COVID-19 coughs or exhales they release droplets of infected fluid. Most of these droplets fall on nearby surfaces and objects, such as desks, tables, or telephones. People could catch COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces or objects, and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. If they are standing within 1 meter of a person with COVID-19 they can catch it by breathing in droplets coughed out or exhaled by them.

Resuming with a new beginning

Simple ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your workplace

Prevention of the novel virus can be done by making sure that the workplace is clean and hygienic. This can be done by the usage of disinfectants on a regular basis on the surfaces because contamination on surfaces touched by employees and customers is one of the main ways that COVID-19 spreads. The promotion of hygiene among employees through effective communication is an important factor. Displaying posters emphasizing regular hand-wash is one of the methods to keep workers alarmed.

Good respiratory hygiene in the workplace must be promoted. This can be done by ensuring the availability of face masks or tissues. Proper disposal bins must also be taken care of. Anyone with even a mild cough or low-grade fever (37.3 C or more) should be made to stay at home/ work from home.

Upcoming travel plans for employees

Making sure that the organization and its employees have the latest information on areas
where COVID-19 is spreading is helpful. Based on the latest information, the organization should assess the benefits and risks related to upcoming travel plans. Ensure that the employees comply with instructions from local authorities and any local restrictions on travel and movement.

Managing COVID-19 while organizing events and meetings

There is so much potential risk underlying during gatherings. Hence, organizers need to have consideration while organizing meetings. The first and foremost question to ask before planning one is, whether the meeting can be done online. If not that, at least the number of people attending the event. It is advisable to stop unwell members from attending the meeting. One important thing to do is to pre-order sufficient supplies and materials, including tissues and hand sanitizer for all participants. Have surgical masks available to offer anyone who develops respiratory symptoms.

During the meeting, it is important to promote hygienic techniques to stay safe from COVID-19. Retain the names and contact details of all participants for at least one month. This will help public health authorities trace people who may have been exposed to COVID-19 if one or more participants become ill shortly after the event. If someone at the meeting or event was isolated as a suspected COVID-19 case, the organizer should inform participants. They should be advised to monitor themselves for symptoms for 14 days and take their temperature twice a day.