Moving forward, electrical contractors and engineering firms can do their part to prevent more cases of the virus in their communities. For example, on its website, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) has set up a Coronavirus Resource Center. The association offers the following tips from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect workers.
Encourage your workers to perform frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol. Also, they should avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with those who are sick.
Disinfect all surfaces that are touched regularly and use disposal cups.
Set up hand washing and hand sanitizer stations. Also have tissues and trash cans readily available to prevent the spread of the virus.
To meet OSHA regulations, contractors should consider developing an overall policy related to illness prevention and the spread of germs and illnesses such as the cold and the flu.
Review company policies and contracts on sick leave, family medical care leave and other federal regulations protecting employer and employee rights.