According to various sources, the timeline to achieve an end to the COVID 19 pandemic will vary by location and could last until the end of 2021 or beyond. With this in mind, it is important that all of us are aware of the necessary safety measures we must take when reopening businesses and venues.
It is vital that we all recognize a simple fact: returning to a pre COVID-19 state of operation will not happen quickly, it may never happen at all. It is your responsibility to ensure that those in your care are given the best information and guidance possible.
One of the most important things you can do as an employer is implement daily health checks to onsite reporting staff. This is a first line defense and will greatly reduce the spread of infection by removing those with symptoms from the equation. These checks take less than a minute and can be performed by taking the employees temperature and asking a series of questions about symptoms and interactions with other individuals.
Conducting a hazard assessment of the workplace can also help reduce the likelihood of transmission. This can be done by ensuring the ventilation system is working properly and by closing high risk non-essential spaces, such as lounges and recreational areas.
Employers are also responsible for protecting all staff by enforcing face coverings, if appropriate. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) affirms that proper use of cloth face coverings greatly reduces the spread of the virus and is a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19.
Implementing policies and practices for social distancing is a critical step you must take as an employer. It is your responsibility to train and educate your staff on social distancing policies as well as enforce the policies introduced.
A great way to do this is to establish a COVID-19 safety program by using a team of crowd management experts to provide the following:
Remember, you have the power to make your reopening successful and safe. With a solid understanding of how to respond to any situation during a pandemic, you and your employees will have the confidence needed to successfully navigate any future landscape.