DCHAS:

I thought that some DCHAS members may be interested in this draft 2020 RETURN TO WORK POLICY & PROGRAM for review & comment. 

Maybe if we can agree on a final document, we could issue it as a guidance document for workplaces, schools, universities, research centers, and with modifications, healthcare organizations. It makes more sense to jointly agree on the expectations for return to work, than each individual putting together a program.

2020 RETURN TO WORK POLICY & PROGRAM

 

 

PREPARE/CHECK FACILITIES

1.     Verify that all facility systems are operational and correct as needed:

•Electric

•HVAC

•Plumbing

•Roof/Walls/Windows/Doors

•Information Technology

•Fuel Oil/Natural gas

•Security systems and barriers

•Fire safety equipment

•Emergency response equipment

•Flammable/Toxic Gas monitors/lab hoods/local exhaust ventilation

•Pollution control equipment

•Waste, Universal Waste, Hazardous Waste storage and transport

•Breakroom refrigerators

2.     Clean and disinfect workplace including all surfaces accessible to worker touch. Consider verification testing to ensure disinfection of contact surfaces.

3.     Replenish expired supplies (first aid, eyewash fluids, vending machines, time- or temperature-dependent reagents, bottled drinking water, soap/sanitizer, etc.).

4.     Establish barriers/location marking to identify social distancing expectations and encourage compliance in manufacturing and break areas.

 

ESTABLISH ENTRY SCREENING

1.     Establish acceptable entry screening conditions (temperature/health, reported contact with COVID-19 victims, ordered isolation).

 

 

2.     Delineate screening area to maintain social distancing, mark entry line spacing, and provide screening equipment (no-touch thermometers, hand sanitizer, facemasks, gloves, etc.). Consider tents for screening area/wait lines.

3.     Train screeners on required PPE and screening procedures and security personnel on screening security issues.

4.     Provide written instructions to diverted personnel regarding isolation and criteria for discontinuing isolation/return to work policy.

5.     Establish diversion rooms with social distancing for those identified as unacceptable for entry. Make sure that diversion rooms are accessible to exterior.

6.     Provide diverted personnel with transportation to medical services or residence. Ensure that support systems are in place for diverted workers.

 

INFORM SUPERVISORS, WORKERS AND CONTRACTORS

1.     Use direct communication (letters, emails, telephone calls, newspapers, video news, social media) to notify all about restart of facility.

2.     Plan for restart after week DEPENDING ON COVID-19 CONDITIONS. Allow for changes if needed.

3.     Consider pre-work "Open House" to demonstrate new entry requirements and facility entry conditions.

4.     Consider offering employers video tours of entry screening procedures through social media.

5.     Train workers on new work procedures and expectations by video conferencing or accessible video tour. Mark entry stations.

 

SCREEN WORKERS FOR ENTRY

1.     Establish staggered entry times by workgroups to minimize wait times.

2.     Use screening to reinforce additional PPE requirements (safety glasses, hearing protection, etc.)

3.     Anticipate delays and frustrations; use videos and music to reduce tensions.

4.     Ensure that diverted workers are cared for.

 

IDENTIFY PROBLEM AREAS/BOTTLENECKS FOR ATTENTION

1.     Establish command area for problem identification and resolution.

2.     Establish Corrective Action Team to develop and implement improvements.

3.     Use EHS/HR/Maintenance to evaluate improvements before implementation.

4.     Consider legal/insurance evaluation if needed.