COVID-19 has determined how we work and live for several months now, prompting medical professionals (and some non-professionals) to make suggestions on the best ways to stay healthy. Some of the information, depending on who is circulating it, has been conflicting and even confusing.
Luckily, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) have issued guidelines that are straightforward and enlightening.
Since the coronaviruses are spread from person to person through close contact, those who continue to work through the pandemic must take steps to reduce their risk of exposure. Most workers in the manufacturing industry do not have the option to work remotely, so any safety tips have added importance to them.
While employers must always protect their workers, the workers also must do their part to protect themselves. If you are in the manufacturing industry, the following tips can help reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19:
Who would be at risk in a manufacturing environment?
Here are some of the significant roles in a manufacturing setting. Those who fill them should be following the guidelines carefully to help prevent the spread of the virus:
- Machine operators
- Production managers
- Engineers, especially those moving between the office and shop floor
- Supervisors
- Maintenance personnel
- Shippers/receivers
- Office administrators
- Material handlers
- Custodial staff
What can employees do to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19?
You have likely heard these safety tips several times in the past few months, but they are so essential that they bear repeating:
- Wash your hands frequently
Wash your hands using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and running water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol. These are the handwashing instructions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Practice proper respiratory etiquette, including coughing and sneezing into your sleeve.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home.
- Wash or sanitize your hands after making or receiving deliveries.
- If you use a tissue, discard it immediately and wash your hands afterward.
- Avoid high-touch areas, where possible, or ensure you clean your hands afterward.
- Wash your clothes as soon as you get home from work.
Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is everyone’s responsibility. Protect yourself and your co-workers by following these guidelines and maintaining at least six feet between you and others whenever possible.
Are you ready to get back to work?
Get in touch with the experts! Select Staff is a leading staffing company in Dallas, Texas, specializing in the placement of light industrial, office, clerical, accounting, and finance personnel. If you’re looking for your first job or a better one, contact the professionals at Select Staff today!
