Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Disinfection
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and disinfection practices are highly recommended, and in some cases, mandatory by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). These practices are essential to create a safe and healthy work environment for your employees and to help slow the spread of the COVID-19.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)As mandated by ODH, businesses must require all employees to wear facial coverings. At a minimum, facial coverings or masks should be cloth/fabric and cover a person’s nose, mouth, and chin.
There are a few exceptions to employees not being able to wear a facial covering. Please refer to the ODH website for further explanation. |
WORKPLACE DISINFECTIONEducation
• It is important for employees to understand and recognize the symptoms of COVID-19. Upon request, educational posters and flyers can be supplied. If your employees suspect any COVID-19 symptoms, it should be reported immediately. • Handshaking should be discouraged between co-workers and visitors. Hand Sanitizer • Washing hands with soap and water is ideal to practice proper personal hygiene. If soap and water are not readily available, hand sanitizer may be used. • To encourage hand hygiene, place hand sanitizer stations in multiple locations around your organization. |
WORKPLACE DISINFECTIONFrequent Cleaning of Common Areas
• As employees return to the workplace, the cleaning and disinfection of high-contact and common areas will be necessary to provide a healthy work environment. • Based on the frequency of use, determine which pieces of equipment and common areas need to be cleaned, especially on a daily basis. Based on the level of use, more frequent cleaning and disinfection may be required. Surfaces that are not commonly touched only need soap and water for cleaning; additional disinfection is not required. • The variety of surfaces in the workplace require different cleaning procedures. - Hard (non-porous) Surfaces – if visibly dirty, clean the surface with soap and water prior to disinfection. - Soft (porous) Surfaces – if visible contamination is present, surfaces should be cleaned. If possible, launder the items in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. • If possible, you may want to consider long-term options, such as the replacement of porous materials used for seating, the use of no-touch disposal cans, and providing tissues to employees. Signage • To continually remind employees of best practices, it is recommended to post educational signage about proper handwashing techniques, COVID-19 symptoms, and other important personal hygiene practices. |