Thread by @DrTedros

I was pleased to join the @ioevoice Conference on Back-to-Work Policies yesterday.
A return to work should be done in a phased, controlled & cautious manner, otherwise it can put lives at risk & threatens to undermine our efforts to restore social & economic activity. #COVID19

I shared @WHO's guidance for the resumption of work in the context of #COVID19:

1⃣ Employers and managers, in consultation with workers and occupational health services, should carry out and regularly update their risk assessment for work-related exposure to the virus.

2⃣ Preventive measures, including decisions for opening, closing and level of staffing, should be undertaken based on workplace risk assessments and the compliance of workers and customers with these measures. #COVID19

Some of the issues to consider include:
-hand hygiene
-respiratory hygiene
-physical distancing in common areas & during meetings -reducing & managing travel
-regular environmental disinfection
#COVID19

Risk communication, training and education for staff and managers are essential. #COVID19

3⃣ Employees who are unwell and showing #COVID19 symptoms, and their contacts, should stay home, self-isolate and contact local health authorities for testing and treatment guidance.

4⃣ Special measures are needed to protect those at higher risk of developing severe disease, such as people of older age and those with underlying medical conditions. #COVID19