States across the nation are increasingly issuing stay-at-home orders to citizens in an effort to reduce the public’s exposure to COVID-19 and slow the spread of the virus. However, several workplaces and professions are being deemed “essential,” meaning that the people working these jobs can continue to do so in their workplace setting. Several states have determined janitorial workers to be essential to their society, and as a result, these janitors and custodians continue to work. To keep janitors, custodians and all other workers healthy, the Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) is providing tips to reduce their exposure to COVID-19.
Washing one’s hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or longer is just about the best way to prevent the spread of the virus next to complete social distancing. It’s important that workers frequently do this, as well as avoid touching their face with unwashed hands and eliminated contact with people who are sick.
In addition to the steps workers can personally take to avoid COVID-19, OSHA suggests their employers should:
- Evaluate the hazards in which workers may be exposed and assess the risk of that exposure.
- Implement tools such as physical barriers to promote proper social distancing.
- Provide all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).