Why Social Distancing is Still Important.

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With many states beginning to open retail stores and other consumer services, and both essential and non-essential businesses bringing people back to work, the importance of social distancing (both on- and off-site) increases. Why?

 

One way to see it (and to explain to your workforce) is that explained by two genomics experts in a NY Times article: “Just like second-hand smoke or any other poison, the danger of a virus depends on how much you are exposed to.” Thus, the closer you are to an infectious person (within 6 feet / 2 meters) for a longer period (10 to 15 minutes or more), the higher your risk of being infected by viral particles coming from the infectious person. This, also, is why it is important for your employees to avoid crowds when not at work.

 

Distancing becomes even more critical – and more challenging to control – when asymptomatic persons are taken into consideration. An asymptomatic person is a person that can be positively diagnosed with COVID-19, can potentially spread the virus, all while not showing any symptoms themselves. While symptomatic persons can be excluded from the workplace through wellness checks – and masks, handwashing, and enhanced cleaning and sanitation  – add another layer of protection, social distancing is a critical aspect of viral protection.

 

For these reasons, TAG continues to emphasize the need for social distancing and recommends establishing a phased approach to bringing people back to work to continue enabling six-foot distancing. It is just as critical to educate both current and newly returned employees on why social distancing is still important.

 

For more information on these, see TAG’s COVID-19 page, and give us a call to assist with you assessments and strategies for gradually bringing your people back to work.