While millions of people switched to remote working arrangements in the spring, many are slowly making the transition back to a traditional workplace. This has become a cause of great concern to many. If you find yourself heading back to the office, but you have serious concerns about staying safe and healthy, there are things you can do to help put your mind at ease.
- Ask What Precautions Your Employer is Taking
Education is your ally right now. Take time to ask your employer what precautions they have put into place. If you aren’t comfortable with them, be upfront and honest, but know that, if they are meeting state and local requirements, you may still have to return to work.
- Keep to Yourself When Possible
A private office is the ideal working situation since you want to limit contact with others as much a possible. of course, that isn’t always a possibility. Building layouts and budget constraints mean that you may find yourself working alongside others for extended periods of time each day.
- Use Protective Barriers Between Yourself and Others
If that is the case, you want to have physical barriers between you and others whenever possible. A Partition, cubicle divider or sneeze guard will prove invaluable in this respect. They allow you to have your own physical space while still staying in close proximity to the other workers around you. Remember that masks and gloves are effective at reducing transmission of pathogens and can act as a barrier where more permanent ones cannot be used.
- Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces Frequently
The CDC has released guidance on how to clean and disinfect surfaces in the workplace. They cover everything from electronics to upholstered or carpeted surfaces. These should be followed wherever possible, and most employers are willing to share what they are doing to keep you safe. Don’t be afraid to use your own supplies to disinfect your personal workspace throughout the day, either. In general, cleaners should be one of these following options:
- A high-quality EPA-registered disinfectant cleaner
- A diluted solution of bleach and water
- A disinfectant solution made with at least 70% alcohol
- Increase Air Circulation
Proper ventilation is crucial to improving indoor air quality and reducing pathogens circulating. The higher the air turnover rate in your building, the more it is being replaced with clean, fresh air. Opening a few windows will improve ventilation quickly and easily. Just be sure to check with anyone else in your office before you start propping them open.
The return to work might be stressful, but it can also be done safely. learn about precautions you can take to minimize your risks.