What's in your back-to-work kit?

As India enters Unlock 1.0, there appears a glimmer of normalcy with phased openings of workplaces and establishments.

As we ease back into life and work, with the cautious acceptance of our coexistence with Corona Virus, our government and employers are expected to take additional precautions to safeguard our workspaces and health. Yet, the onus also lies on each of us to stay vigilant and cautious.

To ensure employee safety, the government has set some directives for workplace safety. They have stated that staggered work/business hours shall be followed in offices.

Workplaces will also have to provide provisions for thermal scanners, hand wash and sanitizers at all entry and exit points. They have asked for sanitization of the entire workplace, common places and all points that come into human contact alongside ensuring social distancing between two employees to name a few.

Despite these precautionary measures, each one of us needs to be vigilant and take responsibility for our own well-being. Hence, it is important to create a 'back to work office kit' that will help you remain safe and leave the workspace hygienic for others as well.

Angad Ahluwalia, senior manager, corporate communication, Bioplus Healthcare, makers of WHO recommended formula for surface and hand sanitizer, SterloMax says: "It is imperative to keep an office kit ready before you head out and go back to work. These simple measures keep you and others around you safe.

The most important aspect, of course, will be a desktop and a to-go sanitizer. But ensure that you also have other protective equipment such as gloves, mask, wipes as well."

Here are some essentials that you should have in your back to work kit:

Alcohol-Based Sanitizer

It is imperative that the sanitizer contains either 75 percent Isopropyl Alcohol or 80 percent Ethanol for effectively killing germs like Covid-19.

This hand rub formula for sanitizers was published by WHO in March 2020. If you are unable to find any of the above formulations, ensure that there is at least 60 percent alcohol in your sanitizer. Sanitizers need to be manufactured under a government issued drug license.

Gloves

Gloves become a subconscious reminder to not touch one's face. Use gloves that are either made from nitrite, because they resist chemicals.

However, if those aren't available, you can also use latex or rubber. Try using gloves that reach your wrists as you may rest your hands on a table while typing or writing. If these are hard to find, a regular pair of plastic gloves will also work.

Sanitizing Wipes

Always carry a packet of sanitizing wipes with you. Use them to access high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, switches, taps, faucets etc.

Aarogya Setu App

Download the Aarogya Setu app will help in determining if you are coming close to someone who is infected. This will ensure safety for you as well as your co-workers