PLH GROUP NEWS
Face Coverings on the Jobsite
Date: August 13, 2020
The COVID-19 global pandemic has caused organizations in all industries throughout the world to take additional jobsite precautions, as well as enact policy and procedural changes, to ensure the health and safety of their workforces. However, workers must properly follow the guidelines to most effectively mitigate the risks. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides general instructions on how to properly wear face coverings.
The CDC recommends that we all stay home to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus. However, this is not always possible.
The essential work of PLH Group and its 11 power line and pipeline construction companies ensures that safe and reliable energy is delivered to communities throughout our nation. This work is imperative for the daily lives of many and the progression of industry throughout the nation. However, this work often has workers performing in close contact with others. In situations where social distancing is not possible, the CDC recommends the proper use of a face covering.
Cloth face coverings reduce those carrying the virus from spreading it to others. Especially when combined with other preventative measures, face coverings can significantly slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The CDC provides guidelines on the proper use of face coverings to most effectively provide a barrier of defense against the virus. This includes how to properly choose, apply, wear, and sanitize the coverings.
When choosing a cloth face covering, it should:
- Fit snugly, but comfortably, against the side of the face.
- Be secured with ties or ear loops.
- Include multiple layers of fabric.
- Allow for breathing without restriction.
- Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.
PLH Group provides workers with flame resistant (FR) face coverings when working on or near energized work.
When applying a cloth face coving:
- Wash hands for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer prior to applying the face covering.
- Put it over your nose – just below the eyes – and extend it under your chin.
- Ensure it fits snuggly against the sides of the face, covering approximately half of each cheek.
- Make sure you can easily breathe while it is on.
Once the face covering is on, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as the face covering itself.
When removing a cloth face covering:
- Handle it by only the ear loops or ties, avoiding contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Fold the outside corners together.
- Immediately place covering in a washing machine, if possible.
- Thoroughly wash hands.
- Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.
Employees should be careful of where a used face covering is placed to avoid possible contamination.
When disinfecting a cloth face covering:
- Discard disposable face coverings at the end of the day.
- Face coverings that can be laundered should be washed daily.
- Use a washing machine when available. If hand washing, submerge covering in soapy water for at least 30 seconds and line dry.
Do not wear a cloth face covering if:
- The calorie rating requirements of the FR clothing exceed the FR calorie rating of the face covering.
- The face covering will create a safety hazard.
If you are unsure if a face covering is appropriate during a specific task, contact your supervisor or the safety department.
Remember, the CDC recommends staying home when possible, social distancing, thoroughly and frequently washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, thoroughly and frequently cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, wearing face coverings, and monitoring self health daily. PLH Group encourages all employees to practice health and safety precautions and preventive measures — including proper use of face coverings — to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
