While some are still working from home, many are now back in the office. However, we are still at risk of contracting or passing the virus. That's why it's essential to properly clean and disinfect all of your workstations or even your home office. Indeed, according to numerous studies, the virus stays about 4 days on wooden surfaces like a desk and 3 days on plastic like your phone.
1. We continue to wash our hands regularly
We say it over and over again, but washing your hands is the best action you can take to protect yourself from the risk of infection. 20 seconds is the minimum time required for effective hand washing. It is also advisable to remove rings and rub well between the fingers, back of the hand, wrists, but also forearms. Do not forget to rinse properly and dry your hands with a disposable towel. By washing your hands, you protect your colleagues, but you also avoid spreading the virus on your work surfaces. Having hydroalcoholic gel is a plus, but it never replaces hand washing with soap.
2. We disinfect our environment
As we know, the virus stays on objects for many days, which is why avid cleaning of surfaces can be effective, but be careful to do it correctly. Indeed, it is not enough to pass a cloth on your desk… The best is to acquire multi-purpose wipes and to disinfect with solutions based on alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or with water of bleach. Don't forget to wipe down your chair, armrests, mouse, keyboard, and whatever else you use throughout the day. It is recommended to clean your station every day (evening or morning depending on your preference).
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3. Don't forget to take care of your mask
Having a mask is essential. However, it is important not to reuse it every day without having either washed it or thrown it away. Disposable masks can only be used for 4 hours. If you have a fabric mask, wash it daily at 60°C. It is recommended to have more than one mask, to ideally be able to alternate during the day. Your employer will have the option of requiring you to wear your mask during the day, so make sure you always have a spare.
4. We keep our distance as much as possible and limit contact
Although maintaining distances, depending on the work environment, can sometimes be difficult, it is important not to neglect this important safety measure. Indeed, it has been proven on several occasions in the context of studies on the spread of respiratory droplets, that a distance of more than 1 meter makes it possible to considerably reduce the risk of infection. The same goes for physical contact:no one is forcing you to shake hands with everyone during this time of crisis, so avoid doing it. Even more important:the kiss during a pandemic? Why is that ? Absolutely avoid! During a pandemic, any physical contact that can be avoided with your colleagues should be avoided.
