Although it is too early in many communities, some who left their physical workplaces during the Covid-19 shutdown, are starting to transition back to work. For those in this category, it very important to have a plan in place for the transition. We do not want to cause ourselves and others unnecessary stress in the process. Remember, if we all come back to work just to get one another sick, our businesses will shut down again and we will have defeated the point in re-opening— and set ourselves back extensively.

Have a plan!

The plan should include maintaining CDC physical distancing guidelines, a systematic and thorough disinfecting regime, and being flexible with whether you are an employer or an employee. This is a new normal for everyone.

Maintain Social Distancing

The CDC recommends the physical distancing of six feet apart. Implementing a structure for your business to reopen should include keeping employees and customers six feet apart for their safety.

It is also recommended that everyone wear a mask. Although not all masks, especially cloth masks, do not always protect us from airborne disease, they do help mitigate the spread. We are in this together.

Disinfect Work Areas

It is imperative to disinfect high traffic areas frequently to reduce the risk of spreading germs. High traffic areas can include but are not limited to doors, counters/tables, touch screens, registers, and restrooms.

It is also important to encourage employees to frequently wash their hands or use hand sanitizer. Remember, no one should be touching their faces without sanitized hands. Gloves are another precaution, but please keep in mind that gloves need to be replaced after each interaction with others to avoid cross-contamination!

Flexibility

Again, it is very important to be understanding and flexible with your employees if you are an employer, and likewise, with your employer if you are any employee. Everyone has a different situation and no one wants to spread this virus to their loved ones!

There are families that have to be especially mindful of contact because they have high risk situations at home. Families may be concerned with dropping off their kids off at daycare, caring for elderly family members, or caring for family members with specific health issues that put them at high risk.

Ultimately, it is important to simply proceed with caution. Maintain physical distancing and regular sanitation routines in your plan for reopening. If we keep one another in mind, and take care of each other in the process, it will be more likely a successful re-opening.