It has come to our attention that some sheet metal workers are still carpooling to the worksite, as well as not practicing 6’ social distancing during lunch and breaks. We have also become aware of instances where eating areas are not being sanitized before and after breaks.
Our position at SMOHIT, based on the most current medical data, is to discourage these practices entirely. In the event that proves to be impossible, we recommend following the CDC’s (Centers for Disease Control) most recent COVID-19 guidelines pertaining to the subjects below. The following interim guidance may help prevent workplace exposures to COVID-19 in non-healthcare settings:
- Updated cleaning and disinfection guidance
- Updated best practices for conducting social distancing
- Updated strategies and recommendations that can be implemented now to respond to COVID-19
Educate employees about how they can reduce the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash and immediately wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Learn more about coughing and sneezing etiquette on the CDC website.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as workstations, keyboards, telephones, tools, handrails, and doorknobs. Dirty surfaces can be cleaned with soap and water prior to disinfection. To disinfect, use products that meet EPA’s criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2external icon.
- Avoid using other employees’ phones, desks, offices, or other work tools and equipment, when possible. If necessary, clean and disinfect them before and after use.
- Practice social distancing by avoiding large gatherings and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible.
- Cancel, adjust, or postpone large work-related meetings or gatherings that can only occur in-person. If meetings are necessary, hold them in open, well-ventilated spaces.
- Identify a workplace coordinator who will be responsible for COVID-19 issues and their impact at the workplace.
