What should I do of an employee is suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19?

C19 - What should I do of an employee is suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19?

by Tracey-Lee Blignaut | C19 - COVID-19

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF AN EMPLOYEE IS SUSPECTED OR CONFIRMED TO HAVE TO HAVE COVID-19?

In most cases, you do not need to shut down your facility. But do close off any areas used for prolonged periods of time by the sick person:

  • Wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting to minimize potential for other employees being exposed to respiratory droplets. If waiting 24 hours is not feasible, follow your organizations specific plan or procedure.
  • During this waiting period, open outside doors, and windows to increase air circulation in these areas.

Sick employees should follow CDC-recommended steps if there is no company or organizational procedure in place.

Employees should not return to work until they have met the criteria to discontinue home isolation and have consulted healthcare provider and government or their local health department.

If an employee is confirmed to have COVID-19, employers should inform fellow employees of their possible exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace but ensure that company confidentiality structures or guidlines are followed.