Preparing a Healthy Work Environment
Consider improving the engineering controls using the building ventilation system. This may include some or all of the following activities:
- Increasing ventilation rates.
- Increasing the percentage of outdoor air that circulates into the system.
Disinfect the workplace environment:
- Disinfect all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as workstations, keyboards, telephones, handrails, and doorknobs.
- If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
- For disinfection, use EPA-registered household disinfectants. A list of products that are EPA-approved for use against the virus that causes COVID-19 is available online.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.)
CDC Guidance on How to Clean and Disinfect:
Hard (Non-porous) Surfaces
- If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
- For disinfection, EPA-registered disinfectants should be used.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products for concentration, application method and contact time, etc.
Soft (Porous) Surfaces
- For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning:
- If the items can be laundered, launder items in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and then dry items completely.
- Otherwise, use products that are EPA-approved for use against the virus that causes COVID-19 and that are suitable for porous surfaces.
Electronics
- For electronics such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines, remove visible contamination if present.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
- Consider use of wipeable covers for electronics.
- If no manufacturer guidance is available, consider the use of alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol to disinfect touch screens. Dry surfaces thoroughly to avoid pooling of liquids.
When Cleaning
- Wear disposable gloves and gowns (or disposable protective suits) for all tasks in the cleaning process, including handling trash.
- Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) might be required based on the cleaning/disinfectant products being used and whether there is a risk of splash.
- Gloves and gowns or protective suits should be removed carefully to avoid contamination of the wearer and the surrounding area.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Always wash immediately after removing gloves and after contact with a person who is sick.
- Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol may be used. However, if hands are visibly dirty, always wash hands with soap and water.
Check out our Facility Re-Opening Guide, to read more on re-opening a safe and healthy workspace.
