Many of us spend the majority of our waking time at work. That means that the cleanliness of your work stations and stores are paramount if we want to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Here is what businesses should know about how to prevent the spread of COVID-19
What is COVID-19 and How is it Contracted?
According to the CDC, the coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. You are undoubtedly hearing about social distancing. That is because this virus spreads person to person through direct or indirect contact.
It spreads through people who are in close contact with one another and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person sneezes or coughs. These droplets can land on surfaces, mouths or noses of others and can potentially be inhaled through the lungs.
According to livescience.com, the coronavirus can live:
- In the air for up to 3 hours
- On copper for up to 4 hours
- On cardboard for up to 24 hours
- On plastic and stainless steel for up to 2 or 3 days
This information has not been peer reviewed and could be shorter or longer than the times listed.
Remember, spread of the virus can happen with those that haven’t shown symptoms yet. Use social distancing to restrict the spread.
What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?
If someone does have symptoms they can range from mild to severe illness and even death.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Coughing
- Shortness of Breath
- Persistent Pain or Pressure in the Chest (Emergency Warning Sign)
- Confusion (Emergency Warning Sign)
- Blue Hue to your Lips or Face (Emergency Warning Sign)
Those who are at higher risk include older adults and those with chronic medical conditions including heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.
How Can Your Business Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
- Wipe Your Work Station Down
a. Disinfect your desk, keyboard, mouse, phone and anything else that you or your coworkers touch a lot. - Wash Your Hands
a. Wash your hands after you eat, touch door handles, blow your nose, sneeze, cough, shake hands and touch any other surfaces that have not been sanitized. Hand sanitizer is a good substitute when you don’t have soap around. - Use UV Lights in the Ventilation
a. UV light can kill up to 90% of microorganisms living within the coils and air ducts of an HVAC system. - Reduce or Eliminate Physical Contact
a. Try not to shake hands or have direct physical content with coworkers, employees and customers. - Stay Stocked with Cleaning Supplies
a. Cleaning supplies and disinfectants are a primary weapon in the fight against disease. Make sure that your cleaning supplies are fully stocked and ready for shortages.
Safety Above All
The coronavirus is a serious disease. It may not make you significantly sick, but you could carry it to someone who is at higher risk without even knowing it. Pay attention to the CDC, WHO and other government updates for information that may affect your coworkers, customers or family.
Take the above measures to improve the health and safety of your store. If you are in need of maintenance services that allow you to accomplish that goal, Central Florida Store Services is available to help you in this time of need. We provide 24/7 Emergency Services.