Returning to the workplace during COVID-19

Updated to include a link to CDC's recommendations on when it's safe to return to work and be in public after a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19: When It's safe to return to work

What we are are all experiencing is unprecedented during our lifetime. The Coronavirus has halted life as we know it, with a looming uncertainty and fear. At our workplace, we are doing what we can to keep everyone safe while continuing business operations, following CDC guidelines.

We've placed great importance on preventative measures, including the following:

• Screening employees in the workplace for COVID-19 symptoms, including taking temperatures

• Encouraging sick employees to stay home, and allowing for greater flexibility in terms of attendance

• Talking with employees about COVID-19, the symptoms (fever, cough, or shortness of breath), and how they can reduce the spread of the virus at home and work

• Staggering break times

• Continuing to have employees work remotely, when possible

• Wearing masks

• Practicing social distancing

• Enforcing a "no visitor" policy and instead holding virtual meetings with business partners, vendors and customers

• Identifying employees at higher risk and providing accommodations, if necessary

• Routinely cleaning and disinfecting the facility, particularly frequently touched areas. Click on the link for best practices in cleaning and disinfecting, as outlined by the CDC: Cleaning and Disinfecting your facility

We've all heard, by now, what we can do to help keep safe. While most steps are nothing new, they're even more important now. This is what we remind everyone about:

• Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds

• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth (so challenging for me with allergies!)

• Practice social distancing, at least six feet apart and avoid large gatherings

• Use face masks but do not rely on them for sole prevention. Hand washing and social distancing are key, too

• Cover mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing, or use the inside of your elbow

• Avoid using other employees' desks and workstations; cleaning and disinfecting before and after, if necessary

We are grateful to have a healthy IPW family and do not take it for granted. We are prepared to act, should we need to:

• If an employee arrives at the workplace or becomes sick during the day, he or she will be immediately separated from others and sent home.

• If an employee is confirmed to have COVID-19, it will be reported to the Colorado Dept. of Health and Environment. Click on the link to: REPORT A CASE.

• Thorough cleaning and disinfecting procedures will be done immediately, on a large scale throughout the facility.

• Any confirmed cases may result in a temporary closure, if the infected area cannot be contained separately (or if unable to determine area), and working with our local public health office to determine next steps and to determine when it would be safe to re-open, should there be a temporary closure.

• Employees with recent exposure to someone with COVID-19 will be sent home for a 14-day quarantine to monitor for any symptoms that may develop.

• Follow CDC guidelines on employees returning to the workplace after exposure to COVID-19: When it's safe to return to work

Stay safe and be well, everyone. Visit the CDC website for tips on prevention and what to do if you suspect COVID-19 CDC Website.