It only seems fitting to write a blog about the COVID-19 pandemic and how it has affected the workplace. It is the writer’s hope that, in the very near future, this blog will be read with relief that the virus has been tamed and all the extra measures used to tame it are but a dim memory.

Each day brings new information (and misinformation) about the latest statistics, recommendations and mandates related to the virus. One thing that the researchers, doctors, CDC, and WHO all seem to be in agreement about is that wearing masks helps minimize the spread of the Coronavirus. At the date of this writing, here is what is thought to be known about the wearing of masks according to the Mayo Clinic:

Face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the virus.

Here are Mayo’s suggestions about various masks:

Surgical masks

Also called a medical mask, a surgical mask is a loose-fitting disposable mask that protects the wearer’s nose and mouth from contact with droplets, splashes and sprays that may contain germs. A surgical mask also filters out large particles in the air. Surgical masks may protect others by reducing exposure to the saliva and respiratory secretions of the mask wearer.

N95 masks

Offers more protection for the wearer than a surgical mask does because it can filter out both large and small particles when the wearer inhales. Some N95 masks (and some cloth masks) have valves that make them easier to breathe through. With this type of mask, unfiltered air is released when the wearer exhales. But because the valve releases unfiltered air when the wearer breathes out, this type of mask doesn’t prevent the wearer from spreading the virus. For this reason, some places have banned them.

Cloth masks

A cloth mask is intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes. Asking everyone to wear cloth masks can help reduce the spread of the virus by people who have COVID-19 but don’t realize it. Cloth face coverings are most likely to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus when they are widely used by people in public settings.

At Summit Executive Suites, we are following Governor Beshear’s guidelines issued April 28, 2020 and were able to reopen on May 11, 2020. Specifically:

1. Several of our clients continue to telework resulting in a phased return to the Suites.
2. Clients are requested to take their temperature daily.
3. Common areas have been closed.
4. Clients are socially distancing and wearing face masks when in hallways.
5. Sanitizer stations are located throughout the Suites.
6. Common-touch areas (copier, coffee pots, kitchen cabinet handles, refrigerator, etc) are wiped down with disinfecting wipes several times throughout the day and each night a professional cleaning staff cleans as well.

Focus on Growth, We’ll Handle the Rest!