Texas is no stranger to market volatility, especially when
it comes to oil prices. But today we face an additional threat, one that not
only impacts the stock market, but also our health. As both the state and
nation grapple with school closures, shuttered businesses and gathering
restrictions, it has become apparent that how we work through the COVID-19
pandemic will indicate how quickly we can return to business as usual.
For those businesses deemed essential to infrastructure,
there’s an added layer of concern and that is how to best protect their
customers and staff. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration,
together with the U.S. Department of Labor has offered some guidance to help.
Identifying the Symptoms of COVID-19
Infections from coronavirus can be mild to severe. And
symptoms aren’t always apparent, making early detection challenging. Look for
symptoms that include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Understanding How COVID-19 Spreads
There’s still a lot to learn about the new coronavirus, but
the research we have today shows that the virus is spread mainly person to
person. Because it’s thought that respiratory droplets are considered a major
transmission method, it is recommended that workers remain at least 6 feet away
from one another and not share any tools, equipment or other materials that
could have SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) on the surface.
Take these 6 Steps to Minimize Coronavirus Exposure Risk in Your Facility
- Develop an Infectious Disease
Preparedness and Response Plan
Stay up to date on recommendations from federal, state and local health
agencies. Consider what, how and to what sources of COVID-19 exposure that
employees, customers and the general public may have. Consider individual
health risks to your workers. Then, develop a plan on how to mitigate those
risks through social distancing, alternative work schedules and remote work
options. Be sure to consider any supply chain disruptions that could impact
your operations.
- Prepare to Implement Basic Infection
Prevention Measures
Basic measures should include frequent and thorough hand washing. Make sure
employees have access to warm water with soap as well as alcohol-based hand
sanitizer. Encourage sick workers to stay home. Practice proper respiratory
etiquette like covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Then,
washing hands immediately. Maintain regular housekeeping practices like
cleaning and be sure to disinfect surfaces often.
- Develop Policies and Procedures for
Prompt Identification and Isolation of Sick People
Plan how you will identify and isolate potentially sick workers and train
workers on how they can identify their own symptoms. Provide face masks to
limit the spread of coronavirus and educate staff on the proper use and
disposal of any personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Develop, Implement and Communicate about
Workplace Flexibilities and Protections
Clearly communicate policies regarding employee and family-related sick leave.
Be flexible about employees’ needs, especially regarding staying home to care
for a sick child or family member.
- Implement Work Controls
It may not be possible to eliminate the risk of COVID-19 exposure in your
facility, but you can take steps to mitigate those risks. Use controls such as
high-efficiency air filters. Install physical barriers such as sneeze guards
and utilize drive-through or curbside service options. Limit the physical
contact shared by employees and customers. Alternate shifts or allow employees
to work from home when appropriate. Discontinue any nonessential travel and
train workers on how to improve protective behaviors, use their PPE and how to
spot risk factors.
- Follow Existing OSHA Standards
Remember to follow OSHA standards for safe work practices regarding the
occupational hazards your employees face every day. Some of these requirements
may also prevent occupational exposure to COVID-19. Personal protective
equipment like eye and face protection, respiratory protection and hand
protection may help control some sources of the virus.
For the full recommendations, please readGuidance on Preparing
Workplaces for COVID-19.
To learn what precautions we are taking at this time, read We’re Open:
COVID 19 Update.
M&M Sales & Equipment remains fully operational at
this time, but due to the precautionary measures we are taking to protect you
and our employees, service may be slightly slower than usual.
Please contact the M&M Sales team with any
questions.