In preparation for the resumption of business activities across Lagos, Ogun and Abuja, the Nigeria Employers’Consultative Association (NECA) has offered safety guideline for its members and other businesses across the sectors of the economy.
Identifying potentially applicable standards and general precautions, the group explained that the guideline is aimed at assisting member-companies to take precautionary measures to prevent the contamination of their workplace when the lock-down is relaxed and business activities resume.
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According to NECA, it is expected that the business/work area would be free from all hazards that could expedite the spread of the coronavirus and actions listed below should be adhered to:
- Fumigation of entire office area
- Cleaning of all surfaces, work-tools, general areas (Reception, car parks, restrooms, etc.).
- Establishment of hand-wash/disinfecting area for visitors, clients and vendors.
- Communicate new/reviewed policies to reduce the spread of Covid-19 in the workplace in a simple and unambiguous manner. The follow-up to ensure that the Policies are understood by employees.
- Increase communication to staff and customers about COVID-19 and measures you are taking for prevention. Post signs asking ill clients or customers to stay away from the workplace.
- Post signs encouraging good respiratory hygiene, hand hygiene, and other healthy practices.
- Social Distancing between Internal and External Clients: Evaluate the workplace for areas where people have frequent contact with each other and objects. Ensure increase in the frequency of cleaning in these areas.
- Encourage collaboration via phone, intercom and other online means.
- Provide the necessary facilities and cleaning products to maintain a clean and safe workplace
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Director-General, NECA, Timothy Olawale, explained that while all employees should ensure they understand and comply with the prevention policies and practices in the workplace, employers too should keep the environment clean and use appropriate disinfectants to clean items like desks, work surface, phones, keyboards and electronics.
He said, “Cash registers, keypads, elevator buttons, customer service counters and restaurant tables are to be cleaned more often, especially when visibly dirty. Keep your Physical distance, also keep a distance of at least 2 metres between you, your coworkers, and customers. Reduce activities that require close physical proximity or contact with people, such as team meetings.”