Coronavirus/Covid-19:  Issue 1 – March 10th, 2020

COMPANY ANNOUNCEMENT

The company is assessing the situation with the Coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) on an ongoing basis. We are prepared to take any appropriate changes/actions that may be required to minimize the risk to employees and customers and are working with clients to establish an effective collaborative approach.

At this time, based on information available, the company has not made any changes to operations, processes or protocols over and above our standard rigorous health and safety standards. However, the virus is a reminder of the importance following all sanitary measures and followed diligently.

In the meantime, here are guidelines that should be followed by all employees to help minimize the risk of contracting the illness:

  • Avoid contact with people who are showing signs of respiratory infections/illness, as well are large, tightly packed crowds.
  • Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Do not sneeze into your hands and if you do, wash your hands immediately.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Facemasks: The Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises facemasks should be used by people who are showing symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. It does NOT recommend that people who are well wear a facemask.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

For full information see https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

If you are concerned that you have been exposed to or may have contracted the virus:

  1. Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, especially if you have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread.
  2. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact.
  3. Your healthcare professional will work with your state’s public health department and CDC to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.
  4. If you are tested positive, or are instructed to refrain from work, notify your manager immediately and do not go to work. Do not return until cleared by your medical provider. Normal company sick/absence rules apply including obtaining a Doctor’s Note.

The company will issue a revised statement if additional action is required or there is new information to share beyond that being made public by the relevant authorities.

End