The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (“Ministry”) has issued an updated SOP on preventive measures to contain spread of COVID-19 in offices with a view to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19 in offices and other work spaces. Measures have been prescribed for employees and visitors to follow at all times.
Key Highlights:
• Social distancing (2 gaj ki doori), respiratory etiquettes, use of face covers/ masks, frequent hand washing with soap and use of alcohol based sanitizers, self-monitoring of health to be ensured;
• Entrance to have mandatory hand hygiene (sanitizer dispenser) and thermal screening;
• Officers and staff / visitors to be allowed entry only if using face cover / masks, which should be worn at all times inside the office premises;
• Visitors with prior permission will be allowed to meet an officer after being properly screened;
• Meetings (as far as feasible), to be done through video conferencing;
• Poster/ standees / AV media on preventive measures about COVID-19 to be displayed prominently;
• Regular supply of hand sanitizers, soap and running water in the washrooms to be ensured;
• Proper cleaning and frequent sanitization (at least twice a day) of the workplace, particularly of the frequently touched surface to be ensured;
• In the cafeteria / canteen / dining halls:
a) Placement of hand sanitizers at the entrance has been mandated;
b) Staffs will be required to take their temperature regularly and check for respiratory symptoms. In the event, an individual feels unwell or develops flu-like symptoms, a doctor must be called;
• Number of people in the elevators to be restricted. Physical distancing norms to be maintained by virtue of marking spaces on the floor of the elevators;
• The management of cases and contacts are to be done in accordance with the existing protocol https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/FinalGuidanceonMangaementofCovidcasesversion2.pdf; https://ncdc.gov.in/showfile.php?lid=570).
Source: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
