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Sometimes we get sick of working, but what about when we get
sick at work? Since the office is filled with surfaces that
everyone shares, germs can easily spread through cross-contamination
which is the transfer of germs from one surface, food or person
to another. The average adult catches two to four colds a year,
resulting in millions of lost workdays. |
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Handwashing - Proper hand washing is the best way
to avoid spreading germs. Rub your hands together with soap and water
for at least 15 seconds. Rinse your hands thoroughly and dry them
completely using a clean paper towel to help wipe up and throw away
germs. |
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Work Spaces - Help remove germs in your personal
work environment by wiping surfaces frequently with paper towels and
disinfectant for added protection. The telephone, keyboard, computer
mouse and doorknobs are surfaces that are important to keep clean
since they are frequently touched by you and your co-workers. The
fax and copier machine as well as other communally shared equipment
can expose you to germs from many people. Avoid touching your eyes,
nose or mouth when you come in contact with any of these areas. Proper
hand washing throughout the day and especially before eating can help
reduce your risk of becoming ill. |
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Office Supplies - Keep items like pencils and pens out
of your mouth. Germs that are present on these items can easily spread to
your hands and mouth, potentially making you sick. |
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Sick Days - Cover your mouth with disposable paper products when sneezing or coughing. Use paper tissues, towels or napkins to help prevent germs from spreading to your hands. Always wash your hands or use hand sanitizer afterwards. Your cold is most infectious during the first few days. If possible, stay at home during this time to avoid exposing your co-workers to your germs. Since a cold or flu may be contagious for as long as 5-10 days after you first experience symptoms, be especially aware of proper hygiene practices during this time. Keep in mind that germs can easily spread because of cross-contamination in close quarters. |
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Lunch Time - Use paper towels to wipe the tops of
canned goods, soda and juice to help remove potentially contaminating
microorganisms before you open them. All produce should be rinsed
and wiped with paper towels or napkins to help remove germs before
eating. Laboratory tests show that rinsing an apple with water may
only remove about 75% of contaminating germs, while rinsing and drying
with a paper product can remove up to 99%. Do not share cups and utensils
with others, as sharing these items can potentially spread harmful
germs.
Kitchen - The sponges and dishcloths in your office
kitchen can harbour billions of germs. Instead, use wet paper towels
and soap to wash utensils and coffee cups. Then dry items with a disposable
paper towel to avoid contaminated drain boards. |
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Source: Adapted from www.gphealthsmart.com
Information provided by:
School Health and Education Division
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