The coronavirus pandemic has caused disruption across all industries, including those involved in security. As businesses continue to close and events are canceled across the country, security services may not be needed as frequently. However, for those essential servicemen and women still performing their duties, it is critical to remain healthy and protected against COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a list of recommendations to help reduce the spread of the virus. If your business hires corporate security officers, it is important to promote certain practices to protect the health and wellbeing of these workers. Here is a look at some ways that security officers can stay protected during COVID-19.
Slowing The Spread Of COVID-19
This disease can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets that are produced when someone sneezes, coughs or even speaks. When these droplets land in the noses or mouths of those nearby, they can be inhaled in the lungs and that person could also become sick.
The best way to prevent getting the coronavirus and slow the spread is to limit your exposure. Ideally, people should not come within six feet of one another. As this is not always possible while in the course of a security job, it is essential to take other actions including wearing a face mask.
Following The CDC’s Recommendations
The CDC has published a wealth of information for the benefit of business owners and citizens across the United States. People who are sick are urged to stay home, especially if they have possible COVID-19 symptoms including fever, chills, shortness of breath, cough, muscle pain, sore throat, loss of smell or taste or headache.
When wearing cloth face masks, make sure that they fit snugly and comfortably against the sides of the face and that they are secured with ear loops or ties. Face masks should include multiple layers of fabric and allow for easy breathing without any restrictions. A cloth face mask should be able to be laundered and machine dried without causing damage to the mask.
Clean Hands Often
The CDC, along with medical professionals everywhere, have heavily recommended that people wash their hands frequently. To ensure that they do not miss any areas and that they achieve a deep clean, security officers should wash their hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds after being in any public space. Hands should be immediately washed after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If a person does not have access to soap and water, hand sanitizer can be used as an alternative until the person is able to wash their hands. Hand sanitizer should include at least 60 percent alcohol to be effective in killing germs.
Avoid Close Contact
Social distancing has become a primary method for prevention. People are urged to stay at least six feet away from one another to prevent the spread of the virus. Ideally, people should remain at home if they are not working or picking up essential items. For security officers on the job, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and try to maintain a six-foot distance from others whenever possible. This is especially important if someone in the building is already sick. However, people who do not show symptoms may also be infected with COVID-19 and can, therefore, spread the virus.
Clean & Disinfect Surfaces Frequently
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces on a frequent basis are key to maintaining a virus-free environment. Items that are touched frequently should be the main focus, such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, phones, desks, faucets, toilets, sinks and tables. If there are surfaces in your building that appear to be dirty or have not been cleaned recently, use soap and water or detergent to clean these areas prior to disinfecting. There are a number of commercial-grade disinfectants readily available that can be safely used around humans; have a supply on hand and have surfaces washed on a schedule to maintain cleanliness.
Contact The Security Experts
Security companies everywhere want their security officers to remain safe and healthy, whether they are resting at home or continuing their normal work. As this pandemic continues, it is important to continue following the regulations outlined by the CDC and to engage in basic hygiene practices. Many businesses are taking extra precautions to keep their employees and contractors safe from COVID-19 by providing disposable masks, setting up plastic barriers between customers and employees and placing signs that promote social distancing.
If you are interested in learning more about professional security services or if you require security officers for your business, reach out to the corporate security experts at American Protection Group.