Detroit Regional Chamber > Detroiter Magazine > COVID19: Staying Safe and Productive

COVID19: Staying Safe and Productive

March 30, 2020
The outbreak of Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, originating from Wuhan, China has spread worldwide. Governments have closed borders and implemented quarantines, while companies have imposed travel restrictions. The impacts of Coronavirus on businesses are being observed globally. The World Health Organization has designated coronavirus a pandemic, a disease with widespread global distribution.

The American Chamber of Commerce, based in China, has released the findings of a flash survey measuring the impact of Coronavirus on its members. Over 150 companies responded to the survey, reporting travel disruptions, reduced staff productivity, in addition to increased costs and reduced revenues.

The Detroit Regional Chamber recommends approaching this emerging threat to public health with an abundance of caution.

EMPLOYERS SHOULD CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:

  • Utilize best practices in working from home – including use of video conferencing to enhance collaboration.
  • Create employee communication plans for the latest information.
  • Decide how to handle spikes in absenteeism – in some communities, schools may be dismissed, or families may need to take care of sick family members.
  • Coordinate with state and local health officials so timely and accurate information can be provided.
  • Make a business continuity plan and be prepared to change your practices if need to maintain critical operations.
  • Encourage workplace hygiene.

MEASURES TO KEEP EMPLOYEES SAFE

KEEP HANDS CLEAN

Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds often, especially after coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose, going to the restroom, and before consuming food. Alcohol based hand sanitizer can substitute when water and soap unavailable – it should be 60­%+ alcohol, and used for 20+ seconds for best impact.

WIPE DOWN PERSONAL AREAS REGULARLY

Clean high traffic areas at work, at home, in personal vehicles, etc. regularly using disinfectant wipes.

DISINFECT MEETING AREAS

Disinfect the table, chairs, and armrests in conference rooms following each meeting, using disinfectant wips, as well as use hand sanitizer.

COVER COUGHS AND SNEEZES

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then promptly throw away the tissue. When tissue is not available, use elbows to cover coughs and sneezes.

BE MINDFUL OF COMMONLY TOUCHED ITEMS

Cover your index finger with a tissue or napkin before pressing the elevator buttons, door handles, coffee service items, etc.

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ONLY

Before traveling or attending large functions and gatherings consider whether your attendance is essential. Always review travel advisories from the federal government when planning personal and business travel. Review CDC.gov/Travel for destinations with a risk of community spread of COVID-19.

REMAIN HOME WHEN SICK

Please stay home when sick with respiratory disease symptoms and communicate with your supervisor to determine whether working from home is an option.

SOCIAL DISTANCING

Stay away from public spaces, and self-isolate to stop or slow down the spread of CODIV-19. When necessary to be around people, keep at a distance of 6 to 10 feet at all times.

COVID-19 Business Center

As COVID-19 continues to spread across the U.S. and cases in Michigan increase, it is important to remain calm and informed on the status and threats. The Chamber is providing the latest updates and resources for your business to take the appropriate measures to protect employee and customer health.

Tele-Town Hall Schedule

Government Updates

Business and Employee Resources

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Detroitchamber.com/coronavirus