Planning To Reopen - Preparing For Shortages

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

As the state of Massachusetts continues to slowly reopen for business it is important to prepare for potential shortages for PPE such as masks, shields, and hand sanitizers. We have already experiences shortages of these essential items. As demand increases, it stands to reason that these shortages will remain and most likely increase. In order for the Commonwealth to continue reopen it is imperative for businesses to be prepared for this inevitable reality and to have alternative solutions in place. 

Here are three DIY solutions that can be used to combat potential shortages or supply chain break downs.

As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.

(See our "Planning to Reopen series of blogs for more information regarding CDC, EPA, FDA, and OSHA safety requirements). To review the administration's reopening guidance from the state click here. To view Governor Baker's full report click here).

Masks

We are all aware that N-95 respirators (the CDC-recommended masks) have been in short supply for months. Already, the PPE supply has become such a crisis that some of us are turning to social media to ask for hand-sewn surgical masks. While these masks are not as effective as N-95 masks the CDC considers similar alternatives such as a bandana or scarf as a last resort.

The following is a link to an easy to follow DIY video from Time Magazine explaining how to make a face mask for coronavirus.

Hand sanitizer 

According to the CDC washing your hands vigorously with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best defense against the spread of infectious diseases like coronavirus. The second best, especially for those situations when you washing your hands is not an option, is using a hand sanitizer. Businesses wanting to create a safe environment for their most valued assets, their employees and customers, are sure to be stocking up on this liquid gold.

Here is a link to an easy to follow DIY how to make your own hand sanitizer video from WCVB Boston. When making your own sanitizer remember that according to the CDC the alcohol content must be at least 60 percent.

Shields

The notion that you can get the virus through your eyes isn't new, but it has been little discussed compared with the risk of infection through the nose and mouth. The CDC says that while the nose and mouth are the main avenues by which someone catches the coronavirus, "it may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes."

Face shields have long been required equipment for many procedures in hospitals. Doctors and nurses wear them when intubating Covid-19 patients and during surgeries that may cause blood and bone fragments to fly out. Face shields can be resterilized and cleaned easily with a simple alcohol wipe or rinse with soap and hot water and can be reused as long as there are no cracks. Some experts suggest the use of both masks and shields. In Singapore, preschool students and their teachers will be provided with face shields when hey return to school. Similar recommendations are being made in the state of Philadelphia and California. 

Here is a link to an easy to follow DIY how to make your own face shield video from Doctor George Yang. 

We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!

Specialized Training

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley today for a free consultation - (617) 332-9000.

All of us here at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!