It is essential to take all necessary precautions from getting infected from COVID-19. Businesses have implemented strategies to reduce the risk of exposure to both their staff and their clients. These strategies include improving store policies, like mandating staff to wear PPE.
What is PPE?
PPE, or personal protective equipment, is used to protect oneself from health-threatening risks and hazards.
Wearing PPE covers all entry points for the virus to invade and infect a person and minimize any possible injury. They cover the person from head to toe using safety goggles, face shields, face masks, isolation gowns, and much more.
“For maximum protection, one must correctly wear the PPE and keep it on with every person they meet. The face mask must go over both the nose and the chin, and the safety goggles must go over the eyes. Isolation gowns must be appropriately tied and cover the body well.” mentions PPE manufacturer The Kare Lab.
What Measures do Professionals and Companies Use to Fight the Pandemic?
Companies and establishments have to follow strict infection control protocols by implementing new policies to help stop the fight against COVID-19.
Store staff and personnel are required to practice frequent handwashing and sanitation. They must also have a ready supply of hygiene supplies like alcohol, tissues, disinfecting supplies, and trash cans. Guiding signs are put around the store to remind the guests to keep their masks on at all times.
Companies have also lessened store capacity, removing chairs and tables to lower crowds and waiting areas. Many have also advocated for their customers to stay at home, creating online platforms to accommodate their client’s needs. Physical barriers are placed between the employee and the client to prevent the spread of droplets.
Personnel is required to put on personal protective equipment to protect themselves and the clients from the possibility of infection. Staff must always wear their masks and keep their distance from customers.
Face Shields
Face shields are a barrier for the face and all the exposed mucous membranes present in the area, namely the eyes, nose, and lips. They are an alternative for goggles. Since COVID-19 spreads through droplets, it is best to cover all exposed mucous membranes as they serve as potential entryways for the virus.
This protective equipment must cover the person’s forehead to their chin and wrap the face’s sides. For better respiratory protection, the wearer must use the face shield with a face mask. They must always be cleaned and sanitized after every use.
Safety Goggles
Safety goggles protect the eyes, a potential entry point for pathogens, by acting as a barrier. They’re recommended for use for extended face-to-face contact with people as an extra means of protection.
They must snugly fit over the user’s head and go over their lenses if they have any. They must be coated with an anti-fog solution to keep a clear vision at all times and must be vented indirectly.
The CDC recommends the use of reusable safety goggles. They must always be cleaned and sanitized periodically. If safety goggles are not available, face shields may act as a substitute.
Digital Thermometer
To limit the spread of COVID-19 or any illness, personnel must check if the incoming customers are presenting any signs or symptoms. A digital thermometer is essential at entrances of public spaces.
COVID-19 has different symptoms from cough, chills, and loss of taste or smell. One of these symptoms is fever. A person with a body temperature greater than 38 degrees Celsius or 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit cannot be allowed inside the establishment. These guests must stay at home as they may compromise the health of the staff and the other clients.
Face Masks
The CDC advocates the use of face masks to minimize the risk of spreading the virus. All workers are required to keep the face mask on at all times during their shift. The face mask is worn to protect other people from the wearer if they are infected, as droplets spread the virus.
Workers must wear face masks properly for them to be efficient. The metal on the top part of the mask must conform to the wearer’s nose bridge and go over their chin. The wearer must also avoid touching their face mask once it is on.
Conclusion
By following the preventive measures set by authorities, we can keep the virus contained. Many companies have taken the right step to help this cause. By cooperation, the combined efforts of the employer, worker, and the customer can help diminish and end this pandemic.