Does anyone have a document with guidelines or best practices for researchers returning to reopened chemistry research labs?
Our research labs are closed but we expect/hope to open in the near future and it makes sense to plan now.
If coronavirus were a chemical we would talk about safety via elimination, substitution, isolation, administrative control, and PPE, in that order. Assuming we don't have a cure or vaccine, we would isolate via social distancing or setting
a maximum occupancy based on the lab's area. Administrative controls might by an SOP that includes and disinfection protocols, requirement for daily body temperature measurements, and daily medical reports of signs or symptoms of COVID-19. PPE would address
face coverings; gloves, eye protection, and lab coats are typically required by EH&S.
I think most people on this list would like to hear from universities, government, and industrial labs that have published plans for reopening. In fact, just compiling a list of coronavirus-related issues that should be addressed would
be valuable.
Scott
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Scott Goode, Distinguished Professor Emeritus
Fellow of the American Chemical Society, ACSF
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
University of South Carolina
Physical Address 1112 Greene Street, Room 110
Mail Address: 631 Sumter Street
Columbia SC 29208
Email: Goode**At_Symbol_Here**sc.edu
Mobile: 803-622-1060
