In many countries across the globe, lockdown restrictions have started to ease and the government has started to allow some businesses and workers to already return to work.
Although most people are encouraged to adjust to the new normal, many are concerned about the risk of contracting the coronavirus disease-2019 once they start to go out of their homes.
After more than two months of quarantine, how are we supposed to deal with the ‘new normal?’
Below are some tips on how to cope with the new normal.
BEFORE GOING TO WORK
Don’t forget to wear your face masks and hand gloves.
Before leaving your home observe if you have a fever, sore throat, colds and other symptoms.
If you feel unwell, stay at home and contact a health service provider. Also, inform your employer or supervisor of your health condition.
For short-distance travels to work, try to walk or take a bicycle to avoid public transport.
If you are going to take public transport, make sure to avoid touching the handles and follow social distancing rules.
Should your employer decide to provide free transport, whether it be a van or a bus, maintain a minimum distance of at least two meters between each person.
Note that the number of passengers inside each vehicle will vary depending on the vehicle type and its capacity. As much as possible, open the windows of the vehicle while traveling to make way for proper ventilation.
And never forget to maintain good hand and respiratory hygiene before, during, and after every travel.
AT THE WORKPLACE
Practice proper hygiene especially when you have to work at the office.
Employers are encouraged to remind their workers to practice cleanliness while in the office to keep the area safe and virus-free.
Also, sanitize your desk and things every morning before you start working.
Extra reminders include the practice of proper sneezing or coughing etiquette using a tissue or your shirt’s sleeve.
Spare at least five minutes of every hour to wash or sanitize your hands.
Stock up on personal hygiene materials such as alcohol, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, soap, and paper towels.
Also, have an extra mask or hand gloves in case of emergencies.
Business owners are encouraged to place hand sanitizers in strategic places in the office for easy access to disinfect hands and door handles.
Practice social distancing at all times and never gather in groups in common areas of your workplace.
Discuss with your team members or workmates how to arrange work stations, how to use office equipment, and how to organize meetings.
GOING HOME FROM WORKPLACE
Before leaving the workplace, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Do not rush to exit the building. Make sure to use exit doors one at a time and do not gather in crowds.
As much as possible make sure to remove your shoes, gloves, and mask before entering your home. Take a bath if you can and place your used clothes in a separate laundry basket.
What else should we keep in mind as we go back to our offices for work? Let us know in the comments section of this video.
