In a post-COVID-19 world, safety decision-makers who embrace an agile mindset will truly thrive. In the fields of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), change will remain constant as health and staffing needs continue to fluctuate. Despite these ongoing challenges, creating stability and restoring a sense of "normal" is crucial for the continuity of business operations. In these uncertain times, quick, vigilant, and steady decision-making is essential to navigating new safety protocols.
For industries reopening after COVID-19 lockdowns, a significant shift in industrial safety protocols is necessary. To help guide businesses through these changes, OSHA and other organizations have outlined comprehensive safety measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure. These measures are based on thorough hazard assessments and a balanced combination of engineering and administrative controls.
Here are 5 safety guidelines recommended by OSHA and other industry experts to enhance worker protection in industrial settings:
1. Emphasize Social Distancing
Maintaining a 6-foot distance between workers is a key recommendation to minimize COVID-19 transmission. This can be implemented through floor markings, signage, and visual cues to guide employees on where to stand or wait. In areas where social distancing is not possible, additional measures such as staggered shifts or workstations may be necessary. Prompt identification and isolation of potentially infectious individuals are essential to control any exposure. For example, the automobile brand Range Rover has effectively implemented social distancing, health checks, and hygiene protocols as part of their comprehensive approach to ensure safety as they resume manufacturing operations.
2. Strictly Avoid Sharing PPE
OSHA advises against the sharing of personal protective equipment (PPE). This is essential to prevent cross-contamination and reduce the risk of infection. Workers should take personal responsibility for their hygiene and cleanliness, ensuring that their PPE is not shared with others. Even everyday items that are commonly shared, like pens or paperwork, should be reconsidered in the context of health risks. Companies can adopt digital alternatives to reduce the risk of sharing physical objects. It’s also important to regularly clean and disinfect shared work areas to minimize exposure risks.
3. Increase Handwashing Stations
The WHO recommends installing handwashing stations at key locations throughout the workplace, particularly in crowded areas and near entrances. Employers should consider increasing the number of handwashing stations in response to potential risks. As a general rule, one station should be provided for every 20 employees, but additional stations may be necessary if the risk is higher. In addition to handwashing stations, employers should ensure that PPE is regularly decontaminated and that all hygiene protocols are followed diligently.
4. Temperature Checks and Well-being Assessments
Temperature checks have become a routine measure for many industries as part of their return-to-work protocols. Employees may also be asked to complete health questionnaires confirming whether they are symptomatic or asymptomatic. In some cases, businesses have adopted COVID-19 health apps that streamline this process and help identify potential cases early. It's also critical that employers support employees who need to leave work early due to illness, encouraging transparency and ensuring that workers feel comfortable reporting symptoms without fear of consequences.
5. Limit Workplace Visits
Industrial sites used to host tours and visits for potential clients or educational purposes. However, in the current climate, these activities may pose a risk to both workers and visitors. As an alternative, businesses can use virtual tours and live sessions to showcase their operations while maintaining safety. For essential visits, it's important to provide PPE, including masks and hand sanitizers, and implement stringent sanitation protocols to protect both visitors and employees.
As industries continue to adapt to the "new normal," supporting workers through clear communication and safety measures is vital. By following these guidelines, industries can create safer workplaces, rebuild trust with employees, and maintain operations in a challenging environment.
For more information on core EHS training and how to stay updated on safety protocols, visit Core EHS Training.