Though the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, many workplaces have required employees to come back into the office.

The CDC recently announced fully vaccinated individuals can resume activities that they did before the pandemic without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, including local business and workplace guidance.

If you’re one of the many workers returning to the office, here are few tips to protect yourself and your coworkers from COVID-19.

Wear a mask

Unless you are fully vaccinated, wear a mask at all times, except when you are in your own personal office, partitioned cubicle, or at least 6 feet away from others. Lunch is a higher risk period of time since you need to remove your mask to eat. To reduce the risk in this particular situation, experts recommend eating in a large room or outside if possible. Wash your mask every day after work.

Monitor your surroundings with screening and surveillance

Keep yourself healthy by monitoring your exposure to COVID-19. Whether it’s our nasal PCR test or our vitamin D test, using our at-home testing is the easiest and most cost-effective way to check if you’ve been exposed to COVID-19. You’ll get your results for both tests in just 48 hours! Check out a full list of available tests to find out which option will best fit your needs. Or request a quote right here.

Practice good hygiene

Wash your hands before and after eating, after touching your mask, and after using the restroom. If you need to touch a common surface such as a doorknob, elevator button, or handrail, be sure to wash your hands as soon as possible. If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and wash your hands with soap and water afterward.

Practice physical distancing

Unless you are fully vaccinated, maintain a safe distance from anyone you encounter (at least 6 feet apart), and don’t share transportation with another friend or coworker. Avoid high-traffic areas, and ask your supervisor if you can space out your desks and workspaces. If you’re unable to space out your desks, ask your supervisor about putting up plexiglass shields between individual employees.

Disinfect your personal area

Keep sanitizers and cleaning supplies at your desk and regularly disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and personal computer equipment. Avoid sharing desks or equipment with other coworkers. As an extra precaution, avoid common areas like the break room that may not be disinfected as regularly.

Stay home if you feel sick

It’s important to protect your coworkers if you’re not feeling well. Even if you don’t think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, it’s still a good idea to prevent the spread of colds and the flu. If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, make a plan with your supervisor in case you need to quarantine.

Staying safe at work isn’t just about protecting yourself and your health – you’re also looking out for the health and safety of your colleagues and coworkers. While these measures might be inconvenient, you can rest assured that you’re doing your part to help others stay healthy.

Get vaccinated

As of June 21st 2021, over 150 million people in the US have been fully vaccinated. That's 45.2% of the entire US population.

What are you doing to keep your team safer at work? Request a quote