Help stop the spread of flu at work

Flu season can strike a workplace hard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists steps employers can take to help minimize the spread of flu:

• Take proper care of personal protective equipment, regularly replacing disposable PPE, and properly cleaning and disinfecting reusable equipment.
• Instruct workers on protective behaviors such as proper handwashing; cough etiquette; and avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth.
• Discourage workers from using one another’s work tools, desks, phones or computers.
• Minimize the number of group meetings; instead, communicate through email or phone calls.
• When meetings are necessary, ensure the meeting space is properly ventilated and that workers are not required to be within 6 feet of one another.
• Limit unnecessary visitors in the workplace.
• Encourage workers to get a seasonal influenza vaccination.

OSHA offers additional recommendations for workers:

• Stay home when sick.
• Avoid shaking hands, and always wash your hands after physical contact with others.
• If wearing gloves, wash your hands after removing them.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle. Get adequate rest, follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to help maintain physical and emotional health.