As we enter the new year, the holiday season has come and gone, but the importance of workplace safety during this time of year remains. With COVID-19 cases still on the rise, it’s essential for businesses to take measures to protect their employees and customers from the virus., health officials are warning about concerning upticks in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The 7-day daily average for cases is now over 100,000, up 60% in the past month. Hospitalizations are up 40% in the same period, straining many healthcare systems. This trend, combined with indoor holiday gatherings and travel, could worsen the COVID-19 surge. As such, workplaces must take proactive measures to safeguard their environments.
Understanding Why Air Purification Matters
Air purification is an effective way to reduce airborne transmission of COVID-19 in indoor settings. Portable air cleaners use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to capture over 99% of virus particles that linger in the air after an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. By filtering out these infectious particles, air purifiers significantly lower the risk of spread in enclosed spaces. Studies show they can reduce airborne transmission by nearly 50% in some scenarios.
Implementing Layered Safety Protocols
While air purification is beneficial, it should be one part of a multi-pronged strategy. Other key measures include:
- Promoting COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters
- Allowing remote work where possible to lower office density
- Improving ventilation and airflow with outdoor air intake
- Providing high-quality masks (N95, KN95)
- Social distancing of 6 feet between workspaces
- Daily disinfection of high-touch surfaces
- At-home rapid testing and staying home when sick
- Supporting employee mental health with open communication and counseling
The Vollara Air and Surface Pro System
The Vollara Air and Surface Pro System offers advanced air purification technology shown to reduce airborne pathogens. It uses ActivePure technology to produce oxidizers that neutralize viruses, mold, and bacteria. In FDA-compliant lab testing, it destroyed over 99% of coronavirus surrogate MS2 bacteriophage within 3 hours. The system also emits hydroxyls to further purify surfaces.
Implementing a COVID-Safety Plan
Business leaders should develop a detailed COVID-19 safety plan for their workplaces that includes:
- Purchasing portable air purifiers to cover all occupied areas
- Scheduling disinfection routines for high-touch surfaces
- Promoting vaccination through incentives and education
- Configuring office layout for social distancing
- Providing rapid tests and requiring their use before office entry
By implementing layered safety measures like these, businesses can better protect the health of employees this holiday season. Reach out for assistance creating your customized COVID-19 plan.