The following COVID-19 rescue plan information can be used by employers, managers and owners, and operations staff, in order to create a safe and healthy workplace for workers and clients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Before resuming commercial operations, take a look at the building to see if it’s ready for occupancy
Open windows, doors and use fans where possible in order to increase the circulation of outdoor air as much as possible. Don’t open windows and entryways if doing so poses a security, or wellbeing, hazard for occupants.
Assess the building and its mechanical and life safety systems to decide whether or not the building is prepared for occupancy. Check for hazards and dangers related with delayed office shutdown such as stagnant water systems, rodents, pests, or mould growth, and take necessary remedial steps.
Ensure that all ventilation systems are operating correctly throughout the building. Review the ASHRAE Practice for the Inspection and Maintenance of Commercial Building HVAC Systems for building heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that have been setback or shut down.
Ensure all water systems, devices, and features are safe to use after a prolonged building shutdown, in order to reduce the risk of diseases linked with water such as Legionnaires’ disease.
Employers must identify how and where workers might be exposed to COVID-19 within the workplace, and provide a safe and healthy working environment.
Locate areas where staff could have close contact with each other (within 2 meters), such as work and common areas, including break-out rooms, meeting rooms, reception areas, café areas etc.
Perform a thorough risk assessment of the work environment in order to identify any potential hazards or risks that could increase the chances of transmitting the COVID-19 virus.
Communication plans should be communicated to all members of staff including management, maintenance staff, temporary employees, janitorial staff etc.
If the building is visited by contractors, communication must be made with the contracting company in order to inform them of any amendments to work practices and what is required from the contractors in order to prevent the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
Regular decontamination fogging cleans should be conducted at least once a month, or after a confirmed COVID-19 case, on all communal areas. Visit our fogging page or call us on 07538404471 to learn more about disinfection fogging cleans, and how to incorporate them into your monthly cleaning schedule.
Additional Information
For information in addition to this COVID-19 rescue plan, please see the following links:
- OSHA COVID-19
- OSHA Guidelines on Preparing Workplaces for COVID
- Building Owners & Managers Association International (BOMA): Getting Back to Work: Preparing Buildings for Re-Entry Amid COVID-19
- ASHRAE Recommendations for commercial buildings under epidemic conditions
- AIHA Reopening: Guidance for General Office Settings
- OSHA Guidance on Returning to Work
