As the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to pick up speed across the globe, the health and safety of store guests as well as employees working with the general public are a top priority for many retailers. In an effort to prevent exposure, here are some effective ways to manage your space:
Communicating Effectively with Your Guests and Employees
Signs, posters, infographics, and other methods of static communication are vital to keeping retail guests and employees informed on the ever-changing guidelines enacted to keep safety at the forefront. Consider installing signage in facilities or bathrooms that reminds users of the correct hand-washing techniques recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition, consider displaying info on where your employees can find additional CDC, World Health Organization (WHO), or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) resources; or specific information pertaining to the business’ company policies. Also, consider offering such signage in multiple languages.
Consistent communication can not only to educate employees on best practices in the workplace but also to dispel myths and unfounded rumors. Effective communication with guests will also put customers at ease that your business is effectively managing and up-to-date on all safety precautions enacted by government agencies.
Enacting Government and CDC Guidelines
In addition to posting signage regarding proper hygiene, retail spaces can install six feet spacing recommendations between guests and employees as suggested by the CDC and most government agencies. Marked spaces on the floor for checkouts, counter lines, or other areas can help serve as a visual reminder to limit space from person to person. Expanding on these guidelines, retail spaces can also install plexiglass or plastic barrier sneeze guards to protect and maintain distances. These barriers can be used at checkout lanes, pharmacies, counters, or other employee occupied spaces to ensure the safety of both the employees and guests. Moreover, proper sanitation of regularly handled items, such as carts/trollies, kiosk self-checkout stations, or pin pad credit card stations. These items should be cleaned with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved disinfectant with claims against emerging viral pathogens, according to the CDC. Employers and retail spaces should also offer tissues, sanitizing wipes, and/or trash receptacles (if possible) to limit the spread of infection. To protect workers and prevent exposure to the virus, employers must develop and maintain the required programs and plans for their facility or operation.
CDC PRINTABLE GUIDELINES
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/workplace-school-and-home-guidance.pdf
OSHA PRINTABLE GUIDELINES
https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf