Oregon OSHA releases Swine Flu Precautions

Oregon - OSHA has requested that Oregon businesses implement procedures to control the spread of swine flu.

They recommend that all businesses provide plenty of hand soap which includes cleaner and disinfectant. The hand sanitizer, if provided, should contain at least 60% alcohol. Along with keeping employees hands clean it is vital that the following items are addressed:

*All hard surfaces must be kept clean and disinfected (this should include desks, tables, doorknobs, microwaves and refrigerator handles)
*Keep the employees informed about transmission and symptoms of the illness (www.flu.oregon.gov)
*Create a contingency plan for all employees to follow should the outbreak increase.

All employers should be prepared for the reduction of hours or closing of business should the outbreak turn. Written plans, cross-training, and alternate work hours are all positive reactions to a possible outbreak. An outline for businesses to develop a pandemic influenza plan is available on the federal site, www.pandemicflu.gov, under the tab "Workplace Planning".