TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Look Out For Workplace Germs

ADVERTISEMENT

@tampatrib.com

Published: March 7, 2009

They're probably on your office phone right now. They may even be on your keyboard and mouse. And your co-worker in the cubicle next door? He might have them, too. They're germs. And this time of year, you are probably exposed to them all over the workplace.

Here are some reminders from the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) to help you prevent the spread of flu and other communicable diseases at the office:

•Mom always told you to cover your mouth when you sneezed or coughed. Do so with a tissue, and cover your nose, too. Clean your hands afterward.

•Germs can live for two hours or more on desks, phones, doorknobs and other surfaces. Wash your hands often with soap and water, or invest in some alcohol-based disposable wipes or gel sanitizers. Also, keep cuts and scrapes clean and bandaged until healed.

•If you do get sick, stay home. You may think your boss wants you at work, but he or she probably prefers you not make everyone else sick, too. So, keep your distance, get plenty of rest and check with your doctor for help in getting healthy again.

For information about hygiene and infection control, visit www.aiha.org.

The Washington Post

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT