If you’re getting your businesses or properties ready to reopen, ensure it is safe and functional for employees, tenants and patrons with proper cleaning and disinfection.

COVID-19 Protocols

In order to avoid future COVID-19 outbreaks make sure those entering and working in your building can feel safe, AND be sure to create and communicate new policies and procedures related to the pandemic in a clear and timely manner.

Policies should identify the steps you are taking to prevent the spread of the virus and should Be written in a way that will help ease the concerns of your tenants, employees and patrons, while also ensuring that they understand that these new guidelines are to be abided by at all times in order to keep everyone healthy and safe.

Limiting Third-Parties and Building Capacity

Consider limiting visitors, subcontractors or vendors from coming to your site. When a visit is necessary, be sure to inform them of any new requirements ahead of time. Also consider limiting building capacity in alignment with state and local public health guidance. The World Health Organizations guide on getting your work place ready for COVID-19 may be helpful in supporting the review and development of your protocols.

Social and Physical Distancing

Clarify expectations on how individuals should maintain protective distances from others while in the facility and how they should take steps to decrease virus transmission from potentially contaminated surfaces.

• Consider the implementation of physical barriers to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• Where possible, space workstations so that employees are 6 feet or more apart to help maintain social distancing.
• Where physical distancing is not possible, have staff wear a face covering that covers nose and mouth.
• Reduce or eliminate shared workspaces and large gatherings of staff, such as time clocks, water fountains, lunch and break rooms.
• Assign personal tools, computers, phones and work surfaces whenever possible.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

In addition to your established PPE program, include COVID-related items, such as gloves, face coverings and face shields, as appropriate for your operations.

Employee Policies

Review and update current sick leave and work from home policies to provide information specific to your response to this and future pandemics. It will be important to establish ADA/HIPAA-compliant procedures for handling employees who have tested positive, employees displaying symptoms of COVID-19 and managing employee wellness checks, such as measuring temperatures.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Before reopening, ensure the property is properly cleaned and disinfected. As well, update policies for cleaning, maintenance and operations and review them with building and maintenance staff and/or third-party contractors who may complete this type of work.  

Increase the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, which may include door pushes, handles, touchpads, elevator buttons, faucets, sinks and electronic devices, as well as common areas such as entryways, lobbies, hallways and restrooms. The Government of Canada has guidelines on how to effectively clean and disinfect public spaces during COVID-19. Also note that when implementing the use of new cleaning products, it is important to use them as instructed, with appropriate PPE, such as gloves, which should then be properly disposed of.

Consider providing the following materials for tenants, employees and patrons to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Hand sanitizer stations in lobbies, entry points, elevators and other common areas.
• Disinfecting wipes in common spaces, meeting rooms, etc.

Review Building Systems

Consider the following actions related to HVAC system operations for buildings prior to re-entry:

• Increase fresh air intake in consultation with your building engineer.
• Improve air filtration by using a filter with the highest-compatible rating.
• Operate systems prior to re-occupancy and continue their operation over longer hours
• Consider using portable room air cleaners with HEPA filters.

Before considering disinfection of HVAC systems, research and investigate the implications of using disinfectants in air handling systems. Consult your HVAC contractor or maintenance team to review feasible options for your building’s systems.

Health and safety on the job site matter at all times, but they matter even more so during a pandemic. All policies regarding health and safety on a job site should be clearly communicated, and employees should feel comfortable while working. 

We invite anyone who is unsure of their insurance needs at this time to take advantage of our free assessment offer. With this no commitment call, we’ll help you ensure you have the right coverage for your current needs. Now is a great time to shop for insurance, to make sure you have the right coverage and the best value.