The importance of social distancing in the workplace

The recent coronavirus pandemic has left many business owners facing some tough decisions regarding their businesses and their teams in terms of social distancing.

Social distancing is a public health measure that was introduced by HSE (Health and Safety Executive) in order to try and reduce the spread of the COVID-19 infection, but it has been difficult for many businesses to figure out how to implement it within the workplace.

The basic requirements of social distancing within the workplace are:

• Employees should be encouraged to work from home (wherever possible)
• Employees should wash their hands for 20 seconds frequently, and catch sneezes and coughs in tissues.
• Objects and surfaces that are touched regularly should be frequently cleaned and disinfected using standard cleaning equipment
• If employees become unwell with a new, continuous cough or high temperature, they should be sent home and encouraged to stay at home and isolate for as long as is suggested

While the Government is encouraging employers to allow their employees to work from home, we know that this is not always possible. Here at Strip Curtains Direct, the majority of our office staff are now working from home - but our PVC strip curtain production line staff are unable to.

Instead, we have taken extra precautions to protect our manufacturing team by staggering the shifts so that they can adhere to the government guidelines relating to social distancing.  We are also ensuring all employees wear gloves through the manufacturing process, as well as making sure our premises are hygienically clean. 

We wanted to go one step further though and help other businesses who are struggling with the COVID-19 situation. That is why we have introduced a range of products to help employees in the workplace observe social distancing guidance.

Through our sister site worXmart, we are now able to offer premium social distancing floor marking kits which are specifically designed to highlight and encourage social distancing in workplaces. Designed to help businesses comply with the Coronavirus / COVID-19 regulations, they are highly visible with clear instructions (available in text or symbol-only designs).

We have also manufactured some protective screens for worker and customer protection - as we want to do all we can to keep people safe - especially essential workers. Our PVC protective barriers are great for protecting shop workers, bus drivers, medical staff and so on and can be fitted in hospitals, supermarkets, reception areas and more. They are made from clear PVC which helps maintain visibility while being easy to clean. Plus they can protect both employees and customers from germs.

If you are interested in our protective screens or social distancing floor stickers for your business, please get in touch with us straight away, by calling 0333 999 7171 or emailing info@stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk