How to Stay Healthy in a Coworking Space

healthy

As states start to re-open and some of us head back to the office, we now face a new normal. The Covid-19 pandemic will continue to impact our lives for the foreseeable future, so we have no choice but to adapt, which includes adjusting how we work. 

You might be wondering how to stay safe when working in an office or coworking space. It may seem daunting, but there are some guidelines you can follow to help keep yourself healthy.

Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands is one of the easiest ways to help avoid spreading and contracting the virus. Wash them for at least 20 seconds, especially after touching common surfaces, coughing, or sneezing. If you don’t have access to soap and water, you can use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, which is handy to keep at your desk. Make sure to avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose with unwashed hands.

Sanitize Your Workspace

Grab any household cleaner or disinfecting wipes you can get your hands on and bring them to work. Wipe down your desk, keyboard, mouse, phone, and anything else you touch frequently throughout the day. Try to do this when you arrive as well as throughout the day and before you leave. If you’ve touched any common surfaces, make sure to wash your hands before touching your workspace.

Avoid Physical Contact

Gone are the days of handshakes and hugs with coworkers. Physical contact, especially when it involves hands that could then potentially touch your face, can help spread the virus. Instead, opt for an awkward elbow bump or head nod (maybe even a bow or a curtsy?). Also, avoid touching other people’s workspaces.

Practice Social Distancing

When possible, stay at least 6 feet away from your officemates. Limiting face-to-face contact is a vital part of controlling the spread of the virus. If you need to speak in-person to a coworker, maintain your distance. That could mean simply standing 6 feet away from their desk or meeting in a larger conference room and sitting far apart. You can also consider wearing a mask when interacting with coworkers.

Keep Yourself Healthy

This is an excellent time to take extra care of your health and well-being. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising as regularly as possible. Learn more about implementing wellness into your life.

Stay Home if You’re Sick

This might seem like common sense, but it’s worth saying: If you’re sick, stay home. Even if you don’t think you have Covid-19 symptoms, it’s critical that you keep your illness contained at home.

If everyone practices these safe habits, the more we can all feel at ease and help prevent the spread of the virus. And let’s say it again for the people in the back: Wash your hands!

Contact Optimum with any questions about our coworking spaces or our health and safety practices.