April 1st, 2020 9:48 PM by Dan Howard
The first visitor to a building after a complete disinfection can contaminate the building as if it was never cleaned. Maintaining a safe and healthy environment is a shared responsibility for occupant and visitor alike. Communication is key to achieving that goal.
Set the expectations at the front door. Post signage indicating that infection control measures must be followed at entrances.
Locally, the effort of Giant Eagle Supermarkets to install clear plexiglass screens between the customers and checkout staff is an excellent example of setting the tone for protecting all people who enter the store. That effort communicates that they want and expect all of us to keep each other safe while in their buildings.
Signage can begin with a notice at the front door as follows:
This is a building where infection control is necessary for the health of the staff and visitors
Educate all staff to basic practices as to the ways you can reduce or slow the spread of infections:
Understand and Combat Common Disease Transfer Methods
Airborne - coughs or sneezes release airborne pathogens, which are then inhaled by others. We now know that the minimum safe space is about 6 feet.
Contaminated objects or food β We now know that the virus can live on most surfaces. That includes all touch points and items that include bags, papers, doorknobs, light switches and anything else you may touch.
Skin-to-skin contact - the transfer of virus can occur through touch, or by sharing personal items, clothing or objects. The data tells us to ban handshakes.