This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Staying Safe During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The past several months have been a very trying time for most of the world. Living in New Jersey, the COVID-19 pandemic hit especially hard. We’ve faced strict stay-at-home guidelines since mid-March and are finally transitioning back to some normal activity.
At this time, my husband and I are still working from home. Fortunately, we both have jobs that allow us to work remotely and that are being cautious with reopening our offices. I know not everyone has this same luxury and many of our friends, family and neighbors have been going into work throughout the entire pandemic.
I will admit that I am still nervous about returning to normal life. While I think our state is on the backend of the curve, it looks like we can expect another spike (or even two!) in the near future. I know that lockdown orders were tough on a lot of us, but I felt safe staying in our little bubble.
So, to lessen my anxiety about transitioning back to the real world, I’ve been doing some thinking about how I can protect myself and those around me. This is by no means a scientific prescription for preventing any disease, but more-so common sense measures and applying local and federal guidelines. Please do research about your area and follow local guidelines.
Tips for Staying Safe at Work
Once we transition back to office life, I think there are several precautions to take to keep you and your coworkers safe. Keep in mind, too, that even when we’re over this pandemic, these tips can still apply to stay safe at work from other viruses, such as the common cold and flu.
Wash your hands often
One of the most obvious and most talked about precautions is to continue washing your hands. Regular hand washing, at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water, is the first line of defense to keep you healthy and safe. When you first get to work, you should wash your hands, then before eating meals and, of course, after using the bathroom. If you touch any shared or frequently used items, such as the copier or door handles, you should wash your hands immediately after.
Keep your workstation clean
Your cubicle/office is like your home away from home. Just like you would frequently clean your house, you should also keep your workstation clean. Ask your office manager to provide cleaning supplies or bring in your own. Wipe everything down to reduce dust and debris, and frequently sanitize items such as your mouse, keyboard, desk, stapler, etc., that are touched multiple times throughout the day. If you share a workspace with a coworker or share items with others, you should clean them in between uses.
Hire a professional cleaning service
It is important to have common areas outside your personal workstation cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis. This includes entrances and lobbies, elevators, corridors, stairways, general office, and conference rooms and lunchrooms. There are so many high-touch areas throughout the office that could harbor germs and viruses. A professional cleaning service like FDC Cleaning Solution is skilled at disinfecting frequently, thoroughly and correctly. For offices in New Jersey, this Rumson commercial cleaning service can help maintain safe office environments.
Maintain social distancing
According to the CDC website, the best way to prevent COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The recommendation to maintain at least 6 feet between yourself and others should be practiced at work, just like anywhere else. If you are able to adjust your workspace, try to keep workstations at least 6 feet apart. Even in the office environment, try to continue using teleconference, emails or phone calls to interact with external customers and colleagues. If you need to meet in-person, ask that everyone wear a face mask. If you feel uncomfortable in your work environment, talk to your supervisor to find a solution that makes you feel safe. Utilize local and federal health guidance to come up with solutions that work for the business and your safety.
Find ways to get fresh air and exercise
Fresh air and exercise are good for both your mental and physical health. According to the American Heart Association, moving more can lower risk for many diseases while improving sleep, cognition and overall well-being, among many other benefits. Taking time to step outside and take a walk can greatly improve your mood, boost energy and possibly help defend against disease.
Final Thoughts
The COVID-19 pandemic has not been easy for anyone. While we sit at home and watch the sad news of rising cases around the country and world, it’s hard to feel safe. Even as some states, like my home state of New Jersey, begin to open back up, many continue to feel anxiety and fear over a resurgence of cases.
If your office is opening back up and you plan to return to work soon or are already working from the office, there are several precautions you can take to keep yourself, your coworkers and your family safe.
By following local and national guidelines for protecting against COVID-19, you can take steps to protect yourself at work. Simple measures, such as frequent handwashing, keeping your workstation clean, working with your facilities department to hire a professional office cleaning service, maintaining social distancing practices and getting enough fresh air and exercise, can help you stay safe at work.
How do you feel about the COVID-19 pandemic where you live? What are some ways you are staying safe while returning to work? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.