Coronavirus is extremely contagious, and of particular concern to those over 65 or those with underlying medical conditions. But workers of any age are at risk of occupational exposure.
- Healthcare workers
- First responders
- Grocery store workers
- Janitors
- Delivery drivers
- Laboratory personnel
- Pharmacists
- Morgue workers
- Medical transport workers
- Retail workers
- Those who work with the general public
OSHA Recommends These Workplace Controls in the Fight Against COVID-19
We thought the information that OSHA and the DOL provided was helpful and may help other essential businesses operate safely during the pandemic. While it may not be possible to eliminate the COVID-19 risk in your workplace, here are some ways you can reduce exposure through a series of simple, yet effective controls.
Engineering Controls
Engineering controls like the ones below can minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 without having to rely on worker behavior:
- High-efficiency air filters
- Increase ventilation rates
- Install physical barriers like sneeze guards
- Use drive-through or curbside pick-up
- Specialized negative pressure ventilation
Administrative Controls
Employers can use their authority to decrease risk exposure through changes to the work environment that include the following:
- Request sick workers stay home
- Minimize contact among workers and customers
- Alternate shifts
- Stop nonessential travel
- Create communication plan
- Update safety and health training plan
- Train workers on proper PPE usage and disposal
Safe Work Practices
Employers can implement administrative controls that improve safety and hygiene in standard operating procedures that include:
- Provide resources and tips to promote personal hygiene
- Require regular handwashing or alcohol-based hand rubs
- Provide sanitizing wipes
- Post handwashing signs in restrooms
Use Personal Protective Equipment(PPE)
Personal protective equipment like masks, respirators, safety gloves and face shields can help minimize the risk associated with contracting COVID-19, but it’s important to remember that PPE should be the last line of defense. Mitigate danger by removing/reducing the risk prior to assigning PPE. Then, follow these general protocols:
- Select appropriate PPE for worker and occupational hazard
- Train workers on PPE use
- Regularly inspect, maintain and replace PPE
- Properly remove, clean, store and dispose of PPE
Your health, safety and well-being are our top priority. There's a lot going on in the world today, but LINC Systems is here working on ways to address your business and safety needs. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an on-site consultation for your pneumatic tool program or set up regular service, please click here to contact us. Or, give us a call at 800-513-9918.