The hazard
Colds, flu and other viruses spread fast when people work close together, share tools and trucks, and eat in the same break area. When a bug goes around, people feel miserable, work falls behind and whoever is left picks up the slack. For some people, like older workers or those with health problems, the flu can be serious. A few simple habits make a real difference.
The action
Use soap and running water, scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails, then dry with a clean towel or air dryer. Wash before you eat, after the restroom and after you cough, sneeze or blow your nose. Construction sites and permanent general industry workplaces generally must have lavatories with running water, hand soap and individual towels or air blowers (29 CFR 1926.51(f)(3)(i) to (iv) and 29 CFR 1910.141(d)(2)(i) to (iv)). (29 CFR 1926.51(f)(3)(i))
ASK THE CREW
What does our sick policy say, and who do you call if you wake up sick?
From the talk: Infection control at work. Read it in full, free, with the questions and the sign-in sheet.