How to Control the Spread of Germs in the Workplace

Illnesses such as colds and flu are caused by viruses that infect the respiratory system. When an infected person coughs or sneezes droplets containing these viruses are spread to the surrounding area where they can be transmitted to others. Whether your concern is preparation for an Avian flu outbreak or simply keeping your workforce healthy and reducing sick leave absences these simple steps are the most effective and are your first line of defense

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw it away. If you do not have a tissue then cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm. If you use your hands remember to clean them, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
2. Clean your hands frequently. This is your best defense against germs. When available, wash your hands with soap and warm water. Be sure to rub your hands vigorously together and scrub all surfaces. Wash for 15 to 20 seconds. Singing "Happy Birthday" to yourself is a good gauge or the proper length of time. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers can be used.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that has been contaminated with droplets containing germs from a sick person's cough or sneeze and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth. This is why frequently washing your hands is so important.
4. Stay home when you are sick. Companies sometimes give awards to employees with perfect attendance. While it is appropriate to reward someone who truly has never been sick nor missed work, does someone who comes to work sick and infects everyone around them really deserve an award?
5. Seek medical care when necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Common symptoms of the flu are:
• fever (usually high)
• headache
• extreme tiredness
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• muscle aches, and
• nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Exercise caution when using alcohol-based hand sanitizing gels near an open flame. If the alcohol hasn't completely dried it could catch fire.