We have recently had quite a few enquiries regarding coronavirus and how to deal with it. Below are some guidelines to follow if you suspect you may have the virus.
What to do if an employee may have Coronavirus?
If someone feels unwell in the workplace and has been to China or other countries that have been affected, the person in question should be removed to an area which is at least 2 metres away from other people. If possible, find an area where they can be isolated behind a closed door, such as a small office. If it is possible to open a window, do so for ventilation.
The person who feels unwell should call NHS 111 from their mobile, or if it’s an emergency call 999 and explain which country they have returned from in the last 14 days and explain their current symptoms.
While they are waiting for advice from NHS 111 or an ambulance to arrive, they should always remain at least 2 metres from other people. They should avoid touching anything whether it is people, surfaces or objects and be advised to cover their mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when they cough or sneeze and put the tissue in a bag or pocket then throw the tissue in the away in the bin. If there aren’t any tissues available, they should cough and sneeze into the crook of their elbow.
If they need to attend the bathroom, they should always use a separate bathroom with no other people using it.
The UK Government is working closely with international colleagues and the World Health Organisation to monitor the situation around the world and to limit the impact of the coronavirus with the health and safety of people rightly the priority.
If a member of staff has a chance of being infected and they have been in the workplace, they should be tested as soon as possible. No special requirements should be carried out while they are waiting for the test results. The workplace should carry on as normal and nobody should be sent home at this point. Different requirements will be needed once you know the outcome.
Symptoms to look out for
Below are some of the symptoms that may occur in the 14 days after exposure to the virus:
- cough
- difficulty in breathing
- fever
If you are experiencing any of those symptom you should contact your doctor.
How to prevent spreading the infection
Currently, there is no vaccine to cover you for Coronavirus, the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Below are a few tips on how to avoid spreading the infection:
- put used tissues in the bin straight away
- try to avoid close contact with unwell people
- cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Make sure you don’t use your hands, if you do, wash them straight away
- clean frequently touched items regularly
- wash your hands with soap and warm water often or even use hand sanitiser
- try not to touch your eyes, mouth or noes if you have unclean hands
For more information on the Coronavirus, click here
If you are worried about the impact on business continuity and the effect on you employees working hours then please contact Sandra Berns at https://www.centrichr.co.uk/