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To learn more about what matters to you as the industry copes with the COVID-19 pandemic, ReMA would like you to take this five-minute survey. 

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ReMA is encouraging everyone to review the information provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and share it with coworkers, family members, and others. It is one of the best sources of information. Below you will find helpful tips and resources from the CDC. Please make sure to check the CDC website often for changes and updates.

The coronavirus is a topic that is on everyone’s mind. Taking measures to prevent the spread of the virus is vital to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those in all of our communities. This involves the work of every company, manager, and employee. One question that has arisen is if there an increase risk due to processing aluminum cans. While the typical PPE, especially puncture resistant gloves, will provide basic protection, keep in mind that these are also surfaces that need to be cleaned on a regular basis. In fact, PPE such as face shields and protective eyewear should be cleaned frequently due to the close proximity of an infection pathway (the eyes). While you are cleaning the PPE, don’t forget the handles of tools, equipment controls, the pen that everyone uses to sign in with, etc. 

 

Preventing the Spread of Coronavirus

The best way to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is to avoid being exposed.

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The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease, or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Please consult with your healthcare provider about additional steps you may be able to take to protect yourself. 

Steps to Protect Coworkers and Others

Stay home if you’re sick

Cover coughs and sneezes

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
  • Throw used tissues in the trash.
  • Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Wear a facemask if you are sick

  • If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick from the CDC.
  • If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.

Clean and disinfect

  • Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
  • If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.

To disinfect:
Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work. Use disinfectants appropriate for the surface.

Options include: 

  • Diluting your household bleach.
  • Alcohol solutions. (Ensure solution has at least 70% alcohol.)
  • Other common EPA-registered household disinfectants. 

Products with EPA-approved products that are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).

Steps to Protect Yourself

Clean your hands oftenHandwashing

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact

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