COVID-19: Back to the workplace
Covid-19 Back to the workplace
So can we start work again?
The Coronavirus Covid-19 lock down of the last few months was designed to minimise the risk of the virus overwhelming the NHS, we were told to stay home and stay safe. Now most of us have had enough of "stay at home" and are looking forward to returning to the workplace - but we still need to stay safe. Of course, a few might have been happy with an enforced leave of absence from work but for most of us the end of lockdown can't come too soon. In fact, it's reported that the lockdown has for some resulted in depression or impacted their mental health.
Thankfully we are slowly returning to the workplace despite the dreadful Coronavirus Covid-19 being still with us.
In the construction industry we face particular challenges we need to be aware of and take pragmatic steps to help us get back to work safely.
What are the signs and symptoms of covid 19 ?
The common symptoms of Coronavirus Covid-19 can be very like those of many other cold and flu viruses - e.g. coughing and sneezing, sore throat, headache. This makes it difficult to be sure that an illness is
caused by Coronavirus Covid-19 and in some cases it can be even be confused with hay fever symptoms.
There are though particular signs the NHS look out for which may indicate more clearly Coronavirus Covid-19 infection including:
a new continuous cough - this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours ( If you normally have a cough it may be worse than usual)
a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste - this means you've noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal
a high temperature - this means you feel hot to touch on your front or back
Of course, if you suspect Coronavirus Covid-19 infection you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
The good news is that for the majority of those infected the symptoms are usually mild or even not apparent (asymptomatic) although it should be noted asymptomatic people can pass the virus on to others.
For an unfortunate minority though Coronavirus Covid-19 can cause more severe symptoms like shortness of breath and advanced respiratory problems which may require hospital medical care. Sadly a small minority of those hospitalised will die.
Coronavirus Covid-19 advice for employers
Stay at home, lock down and social distancing has enabled the Coronavirus Covid-19 epidemic to be managed to the extent that we no longer have to mandate absence from work. But the return to work also needs to be closely managed and controlled to make sure that everyone stays safe and minimises risk in the working environment. Here are some things employers should consider:
Create a Coronavirus Covid-19 management plan and communicate it to employees, subcontractors and site visitors
Ensure everyone continues to practice social distancing by keeping at least 2 metres apart at work, or travelling to and from work. This is particularly important on public transport.
Try to avoid confined spaces when others are present
Work as much as possible outdoors including when eating or holding meetings
Encourage working from home wherever practical
Use flexible working to minimise the number of people on site at any one time
Use online meeting systems
As much as possible do not share equipment
Consider the implications of Coronavirus Covid-19 on staff terms and conditions and employment contracts
And of course - maintain good hygiene, disinfect surfaces and wash hands regularly.
Stay safe
Kind regards,
The team at MGS Construction.
info@mgsconstruction.co.uk