As more industries prepare to reopen or ramp up capacity, there are critical adaptations that every responsible business must consider as well as vulnerabilities that must be assessed to keep employees safe and help combat the spread of COVID-19. Here are five considerations:
Authentication – a safe compromise
The temporary removal of non-essential employees from the biometric access or card access systems and sanitising touchpads after every use to help reduce the risk of infection. Where possible, the interim disablement of biometric and other similar systems is advised. Rather opt for more traditional ways of monitoring access to the facilities.
Active measures
Ensure CCTV and alarm systems remain functional and are activated to maintain the safety of people, premises, plant, equipment, etc. as well as ensure compliance with insurance requirements.
Numbers count
Keep the number of employees/contractors, etc. on business premises, to the absolute minimum – at any given time. Consider roster systems or allow others to continue working from home if possible.
Suit up
Ensure all employees are provided with face masks and other necessary personal protective clothing/equipment such as plastic face shields, aprons, gloves, etc. and make use of these, as prescribed and continue to make use of face masks – in line with government requirements – to flatten the curve.
Safer passage
Where possible, it is a good idea to provide transportation to employees that would ordinarily use public transport. This helps to minimise the number of people they come into contact with and thus reduces the risk of infection.