During this COVID 19 pandemic, do you wonder if your office files are contaminated?
Here’s the deal … if an office file changes hands allot or goes from office to office, it is most likely “germy”. Here’s why.
- Bob passed on the file to Judy, but on his way to Judy’s office, Bob stopped at the washroom to have a poop, put the file on the sink, and didn’t wash his hands.
- Judy spent a few hours reviewing the file and sneezed twice in her hands. When she was done her review, she handed it to Richard.
- Richard is a little ill today, feeling nausea and had a bit of vomiting this morning, but went to work. He reviewed the file while having lunch. Yum
- … you get the idea…
The point is, office files can certainly be germy, but as long as you don’t lick them, you should be fine because …
- You never ever touch your nose, ears, face, mouth, or eat without washing your hands (and fingers) diligently.
- You never bring the file in the washroom.
- You always always wash your hands thoroughly after you go to the washroom.
- You always sneeze in your elbow.
Keep in mind that, none of the public health measures to prevent the spread of communicable disease are new. They have existed for a VERY long time, studied and monitored extensively, and proven effective. If you don’t have these measures in your workplace policy, it is a good time to git ‘er done.
See below for some handy resources. Of course, any additional public health (NOT Facebook or non-credible) recommendations for COVID19 should be applied too; such as, physical distance of 2 meters and self-isolation if you have traveled or have symptoms.
Links
Federal resource on tips for employees & employers during an infectious disease outbreak. Check with your provincial public health and outbreak/pandemic-specific guidelines.