COVID-19 EMPLOYEE TRAINING...COVID-19 Training Learner Workbook Version 04 “Demonstrate knowledge and application of COVID-19 prevention, protection and preparedness measures”

COVID-19 Training Learner Workbook Version 04 “Demonstrate knowledge and application of COVID-19 prevention, protection and preparedness measures”

T o b e u s e d a s p a r t o f C O V I D - 1 9 T r a i n i n g M a t e r i a l a v a i l a b l e f r o m

© INTRA-SAFE [Pty] LTD 2020 - Reproduction for Resale Strictly Prohibited www.safetytrainingkits.com Copyright will be attributed as and when. Due to the multi-contributor nature, intellectual property rights are not asserted. Page 1

LEARNER WORKBOOK PART 1 COVID-19 EMPLOYEE TRAINING

© Research and development by Ken Annandale

Content moderation by healthcare professionals

Jerome Jacobs, Johan Meyer and Sean French

Published by INTRA-SAFE (PTY) LTD

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author and publisher.




Contents National Disaster ................................................................................................... 3

Legislative Background ........................................................................................... 3

Occupational Health & Safety Measures In Workplaces ................................................ 4

Fundaments Of Covid-19 ......................................................................................... 6

Covid-19 Signs & Symptoms ................................................................................... 9

Covid-19 Prevention ............................................................................................. 11

Protection From Covid-19 ...................................................................................... 12

Cloth Face-Masks – [Cfm] ..................................................................................... 13

Make Your Own Masks .......................................................................................... 15

Prepare Your Home .............................................................................................. 16

Prepare Your Workplace ........................................................................................ 16

Covid-19 Discrimination ........................................................................................ 18

Questions & Answers ............................................................................................ 19

Stay Informed & Updated ...................................................................................... 20

Workplace Plan .................................................................................................... 20

Disclaimer - COVID-19 Training Material

Every effort has been made to ensure that the content is accurate, however the author, publisher and or distributor accepts no responsibility whatsoever for the interpretation of, or any actions resulting from the Information contained in this training material

This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only

You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information

Much of the content has been drawn from reliable sources and repurposed for sake of clarity

© Copyright will be attributed as and when. Due to the multi-contributor nature, intellectual property rights are not asserted by the publisher.




NATIONAL DISASTER 1. Classification of a National Disaster

COVID -19 pandemic was classified as a national disaster on 15 March 2020 In terms of section 23(1)(b) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002) (the Act), by Dr Mmaphaka Tau, Head of the National Disaster Management Centre

Ref: Gazette No. 43096 - Declaration of a National State of Disaster [COGTA Department of Co-Operative Governance and Traditional Affairs] dated 15.03.20

LEGISLATIVE BACKGROUND

2. Saiosh - Legal Forum

Saiosh is a SAQA registered professional body and provides a legal advisory service to its paid-up members via a Legal Forum on www.saiosh.co.za

3. Structure of the Act

Identify each portion and explain that

OHS law comprises of:

• The Act (enacted by Parliament), • Regulations (promulgated in a Government Gazette

by the Minister of the Department of Employment and Labour)

• Adopted Standards.

Is says that the employer must provide risk-specific

• Information • Instructions • Training • Supervision

to all 16 million+ South African employees who fall under the OHSA or Mines Health & Safety Act.

4. Disaster Management Legislation

The Disaster Management Act 2002 must be read in conjunction with the:

• Occupational Health & Safety Act • Hazardous Biological Agents Regs • Environmental Regs for Workplaces • Facilities Regs • National Environmental Management Act • Constitution of RSA • DMA Notices & Regulations • Employment Equity Act • Unemployment Insurance Fund Act • Basic Conditions of Employment Act • Compensation of Injuries & Diseases Act

5. Hazardous Biological Agents Regulations

Extract from Government Gazette 22956 dated 27 December 2001

1) An employer shall,

BEFORE any employee is exposed or may be exposed to HBA and AFTER consultation with the health and safety committee established for that section of the workplace, ensure that the employee is adequately and comprehensively informed and trained, on both practical aspects and theoretical knowledge with regard to –

a) the contents and scope of these Regulations;

b) the potential risks to health caused by the exposure;

c) the measures to be taken by the employer to protect an employee against any risk of being exposed;

d) the importance of good housekeeping at the workplace and personal hygiene requirements;

e) the precautions to be taken by an employee to protect him- or herself against the health risks associated with the exposure, including the wearing and use of




protective clothing and respiratory protective equipment;

f) the necessity, correct use, maintenance and potential of safety equipment, facilities and engineering control measures provided;

g) the necessity of medical surveillance;

h) the safe working procedures regarding the use, handling, storage, labeling, and disposal of HBA at the workplace;

i) the procedures to be followed in the event of exposure, spillage, leakage, injury or any similar emergency situation, and decontaminating or disinfecting contaminated areas; and

j) the potential detrimental effect of exposure on the human reproductive process.

(2) An employer or a self-employed person shall give instructions in writing of the procedures contemplated in subregulation (1)(/) to the drivers of vehicles carrying the HBA.

(3) Every employer and every self-employed person shall ensure that he or she or any person who in any manner assists him or her in the carrying out or conducting of his or her business has the necessary information and has undergone sufficient training in order for him or her to identify the potential risks and the precautions that should be taken.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY MEASURES IN WORKPLACES Gazette No. 43257

6. Additional Disaster Management Legislation

Since the declaring, additional DIRECTIONS have been published including:

• Gazette No. 43257 Occupational Health & Safety Measures in Workplaces Notice [DEL] 29.04.20

• Gazette No. 43258 National State of Disaster Regs [COGTA] 29.04.20

7. Preamble – Applicable Laws

1. On 17 March 2020, the Department of Employment and Labour issued guidelines for employers to deal with COVID-19 at workplaces.

Department of Employment and Labour [DEL] appealed to employers to use:

• the prescriptions of the OHSA in particular the • Hazardous Biological Agents Regulations

governing workplaces in relation to Coronavirus Disease 2019 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

8. Gazette 43257 - Occupational Health & Safety Measures

Gazette No. 43257 addresses:

• 01-10 Preamble • 11 Definitions • 12-15 Application • 16 Administrative measures • 17-19 Social distancing measures • 20 Health and Safety measures • 2124 Symptom screening • 25-29 Sanitizers, disinfectants & other measures • 30-35 Cloth masks • 36-37 Measures in respect of workplaces to which

public have access • 38 Ventilation • 39 Other PPE • 40 Small businesses • 41 Worker obligations • 42 Monitoring and enforcing the direction • 45 Sectoral guidelines

9. Period of Application -15 March to ?




15. This Direction remains in force for:

as long as the declaration of a national disaster published in Government Gazette 43096 on 15 March 2020 remains in force.

10. Administrative Measures – FOCUS!

16. Every employer must establish the following administrative measures:

16.1 It must undertake a risk assessment to give effect to the minimum measures required by this Direction

taking into account the specific circumstances of the workplace.

16.2 if the employer employs more than 500 employees, that employer must

• submit a record of its risk assessment together with • a written policy concerning the protection

of the health and safety of its employees from COVID-19 as contemplated in section 7(1) of OHSA to: OH&S committee and DEL

11. Administrative Measures – Notify

16. Every employer must notify

16.2.1 its health and safety committee established in terms of section 19 of OHSA; and

16.2.2 the Department of Employment and Labour.

16.3 it must notify all workers of the

• contents of this DIRECTION and the • manner in which it intends to implement it.

16.4 it must notify its employees that

• if they are sick or have symptoms associated with the COVID–19

• they must not come to work and to

• take paid sick leave in terms of section 22 of the BCEA;

12. Administrative Measures – Appoint & Consult

16.5 it must appoint a manager to

address employee or workplace representative concerns and

keep them informed and,

in any workplace in which a health and safety committee has been elected,

• consult with that committee • on the nature of the hazard in that workplace and • measures that need to be taken;

13. Administrative Measures - Monitoring

16.6 it must ensure that

• the measures required by this Direction and • its risk assessment plan

are strictly complied with through

• monitoring and • supervision;

14. Administrative Measures – Minimize Contact

16.7 it must, as far as practicable, minimize the number of workers on at the workplace at any given time through

• rotation, • staggered working hours, • shift systems, • remote working arrangements or • similar measures

in order to achieve social distancing, as contemplated in clause 17.

16.8 it must take measures to minimize contact




• between workers as well as • between workers and members of the public;

15. Administrative Measures - Inform

16.9 it must provide workers with

• information that raises awareness

in any form or manner, including where reasonably practicable

• leaflets and notices

placed in conspicuous places in the workplace informing workers of the

• dangers of the virus, • manner of its transmission, • measures to prevent transmission such as:

personal hygiene, social distancing, use of masks, cough etiquette and

where to go for screening or testing if presenting with the symptoms;

16. Administrative Measures – Worker Diagnosed

16.10 if a worker has been diagnosed with COVID-19, an employer must-

16.10.1 inform the

• Department of Health and • Department of Employment and Labour; and

16.10.2

• investigate the cause including any control failure • review its risk assessment

to ensure the necessary controls and PPE requirements are in place;

17. Symptom Screening

22. Employers must comply with any

• guidelines issued by the National Department of Health

[See COVID-19 Infection and Prevention Control Guidelines [DOH Department of Health] dated 01.04.20] in consultation with the Department in respect of –

• symptom screening; and

22.2 if in addition required to do so,

• medical surveillance and testing.

18. Worker Obligations - Gazette 43257

41. In addition to the obligations of employees under the OHSA,

• every worker is obliged • to comply with measures introduced by their

employer

as required by this Direction.

FUNDAMENTS OF COVID-19

19. Definitions - What Do All These Things Mean?

• Asymptomatic - showing no symptoms • Pre-symptomatic - before the symptoms develop

and accurate diagnosis of the disease is not yet possible

• Symptomatic - showing identifiable symptoms of a disease:

• Community Spread - the infection of people in a given/geographic place as a result of their presence

• Congregate Settings - places where close contact with others could occur, such as: community halls, military bases, places of worship, prisons, schools,




colleges and universities, shopping malls, stadiums, stations, theaters, workplaces, etc.

• COVID-19 - the name of the “2019 novel coronavirus” disease

• Epidemic - rapid growth in the number of cases of a disease, over above the normal expectation in a population group

• Incubation period - the period beginning with exposure to an infection, to the manifestation of the symptoms

• Isolation - separation of those showing symptoms from those who are not, in order to avoid transmission of the contagious disease

• Outbreak - the same as an epidemic, but for a partial geographical area

• Pandemic - the global epidemic, spread over numerous countries and continents

• Quarantine - separation and restriction of the movement of those who may have been exposed, but do not show symptoms

• Social distancing - Social, or physical distancing to prevent the spread of a contagious disease by reducing close contact with others by maintaining distance of approximately two meters apart

20. Overview of Recent Pandemics

Some coronaviruses infect animals [camels, pigs, and bats as an example] then spread to people who spread it to other people

SPANISH FLU Lasted from January 1918 to December 1920, infecting 500 million people – resulting in anywhere from 17 million to 50 million deaths

SARS In the early 2000s “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome” surfaced, with some 8,098 cases that resulted in over 774 deaths. SARS-COV- is the name of the virus that causes COVID-19.

MERS Between 2012 and now Middle East Respiratory Syndrome [also known as camel flu] had some 2519 reported cases and killed some 866 people

EBOLA The December 2013 and January 2016 Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in West Africa, resulted in some 28,646 cases and 11,323 deaths

COVID-19 In December 2019 surfaced in Wuhan, a city of some 11 million people in the Hubei Province, China

SOURCE: https://en.wikipedia.org/

21. Deaths with/from COVID-19

As the data is being collected daily, it is recommended that a reliable source of information is used such as:

• https://sacoronavirus.co.za/ • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:2019%E2%8

0%9320_coronavirus_pandemic_data

22. What Do We Know About Coronaviruses?

Coronaviruses:

1. Are viruses that cause diseases in mammals and birds

2. Cause respiratory tract infections in humans ranging from mild to lethal

3. Causes inflammation in the lungs. 4. Mild illnesses include the common cold 5. More lethal varieties can cause SARS, MERS, and

COVID-19 6. COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the

most recently discovered coronavirus 7. No vaccines or antiviral drugs exist to prevent or

treat human COVID-19 infections yet 8. The average incubation period is about 5 days 9. COVID-19 manifests 2 to 14 days after exposure

23. COVID-19 Transmitters and Receivers

The participants in “human-to human” transmission and contraction of COVID-19 include:




1. unwitting “carrier” or transmitter who MAY be asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic

2. conscious “carrier” or transmitter who IS symptomatic [under treatment, in isolation, quarantine, etc.]

3. involuntary recipients i.e. healthcare workers, public officials, essential service providers, public, family, etc., who are exposed to “carriers”

To that end the selective use of PPE reduces potential transmission or exposure during the “pre-symptomatic” period

24. How Does the COVID-19 Virus Spread?

Coronaviruses spread:

1. Like the flu, mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets from an asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or symptomatic person when they cough, sneeze, exhale or speak

2. New test from the CDC have confirmed that the spread is based on activities such as sneezing and remain present for 30 min to 3 hours in air

3. This has resulted in the updated teaching on using masks without a filter system, as while the filter protects the wearer, it opens on exhaling, thus spreading the virus

4. By touching infected objects or surfaces, then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose before washing your hands

5. Viruses may survive on surfaces for a few hours or days

6. When Ingesting food that has been infected by these droplets

7. Possibly through stool [excreta] infected by the virus 8. There was recent confirmation that COVID-19 can

transfer to animals

9. It is always essential to maintain social distancing of up to 3 meters on the latest advice from Health Sector, based on various testing and case studies

25. Group Activity – List the Items you Touch Everyday

Discuss/demonstrate accordingly

26. Social Distancing Measures

17. Every employer must

• arrange the workplace to ensure minimal contact between workers

and as far as practicable ensure that there is

• a minimum of one and a half metres between workers

while they are working, for example, at their workstations.

Depending on the circumstances of the workplace or the nature of the sector,

• the minimum distance may need to be longer. • Reducing the number of workers present

in the workplace at any time in terms of clause 16.5 may assist in achieving the required social distancing.

• 18 If it is not practicable to arrange workstations to be spaced at least one and a half metres apart, the employer must-

18.1

• arrange physical barriers to be placed between workstations or

• erected on workstations to form a solid physical barrier

between workers while they are working; or

18.2 if necessary,




• supply the employee free of charge with appropriate PPE

based on a risk assessment of the working place.

19. Every employer must ensure that social distancing measures are implemented through supervision both:

• in the workplace • in the common areas outside the immediate

workplace • through queue control • within the workplace such as canteens and

lavatories.

These measures may include

• dividing the workforce into groups or • staggering break-times

to avoid the concentration of workers in common areas.

27. Group Activity – Discuss How You “Social Distance”


28. How Long Does COVID-19 Survive On Surfaces?

Studies suggest COVID-19:

1. May survive on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days

2. On plastic and stainless-steel surfaces for two to three days

3. On cardboard for up to 24 hours 4. On copper up to four hours 5. These times vary depending on factors including

temperature, humidity, and ventilation 6. Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-

based hand sanitizer 7. Soap destroys the fatty membrane around the virus 8. If you think a surface may be infected, clean it with a

disinfectant to kill the virus

SOURCE: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-suggests-new-coronavirus-may-remain-surfaces-days

29. The #1 Weapon against COVID-19

SOAP!

COVID-19 SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

30. 5 Common Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19

Most people that are infected will experience the following symptoms:

1. Temperature above 100°F (37.8°C) 2. Fatigue 3. Dry cough 4. Loss of smell 5. Loss of taste

Updated by active healthcare professional on 11.05.20

Those diagnosed with moderate to severe COVID-19 symptoms are usually admitted and tend to develop serious complications that involve:

• Kidney failure • Pneumonia • Severe acute respiratory syndrome • About two per cent of people with the disease have

died • This is particularly so in cases of those with

underlying medical conditions

31. Should I be Tested for COVID-19?

Those who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 must call their healthcare provider in advance and NOT go to a provider’s office or medical facility




• If you have had recent close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case

• Had recent close contact with someone who is being evaluated for COVID-19

• Recently travelled from an area with a spread of COVID-19

Your healthcare provider will determine if you need to be tested if your symptoms include:

• Continuous cough • Difficulty breathing (severe cases) • Fever • High temperature • Tiredness

NOTE: Temperature can be lowered by medication and the effect needs to be considered

32. Risk Factors and Severity

• COVID-19 poses a serious international public health and economic threat

• A comprehensive Risk Assessment must be conducted at home as well as in the workplace

• Local , regional, and national governments are required to conduct a thorough Risk Assessment In order to evaluate and manage the threat

• The strategy is to slow the spread of the virus [i.e., flatten the curve], so we have time to Implement the control measures and return to economic reality as soon as possible

33. Hazard Identification / Risk Assessment

A management process, tool, or technique

• Detect & Assess hazards in or from the workplace • OHS management direction & guidance • Early warning system to predict future incidents,

accidents & events • A risk rating / profiling tool

• Determine which risk alerts must be brought to the attention of employers, employees, residents & community

• Known hazards can be managed by reasonable mitigating & monitoring

34. Assessing and Mitigating the Risk

An inverted pyramid is used to illustrate the Hierarchy of Control and represents decreasing effectiveness of reasonable mitigation.

The Hierarchy of Control exists to minimize or eliminate exposure to hazards, rendering the workplace or environment healthy and safe.

The order of priority is:

1. Remove 2. Replace 3. Redesign 4. Regulate 5. Educate 6. Supervise 7. PPE and PPC [equipment and clothing]

35. Who May Die of/with COVID-19?

The elderly and those with pre-existing or underlying medical problems such as:

• Cancer • Chronic diseases • Compromised immune systems • Diabetes • Heart disease • High blood pressure

are more likely to develop serious illness. Children and those who are fit and healthy may contract less severe diseases

36. Treatment and Vaccine




• Antibiotics do not work against viruses; they only work on bacterial infections

• COVID-19 is caused by a virus, so in severe cases antibiotics could be professionally considered

• Anti-viral medications are under investigation • Currently there are no vaccines or drugs for COVID-

19 • Clinical trials have already begun • Supportive management of complications, including

advanced organ support if required • Those infected should receive care to relieve

symptoms. • People with serious illness should be hospitalized • Flu shots will not protect against COVID-19, but can

help protect against serious flu complications • Flu shots can reduce the strain on health care

facilities

COVID-19 PREVENTION

37. Cleaning and Disinfecting

• Select and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products

• Inform, instruct, and train in cleaning and disinfection measures

• Proper use of soap and water will destroy the virus • In addition, handwashing and hand sanitizing is

essential • Use regular household cleaning products and water • Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects

regularly e.g. countertops, desks, doorknobs, handles, handrails, keyboards, keys, switches, phones, tables, taps, toilet flush handles, water coolers, etc.

• Clean electronic devices regularly e.g. keyboards, laptops, mouse and mousepads, phones, remote controls etc., with approved wipes or cleaning products

• Issue suitable PPE to all cleaners

The #1 Weapon against COVID-19

• Soap destroys the FATTY MEMBRANE around the virus

38. Group Activity – Discuss What Needs Disinfecting


39. Hand Washing Destroys COVID-19

• The constant message is the importance of good hygiene and handwashing

• Viruses may survive on surfaces for hours or days • When you touch a surface or object that has COVID-

19 on it, you can pick up the virus • If you touch your face, nose, mouth, and eyes, it will

infect you • Meticulous handwashing and hand sanitizing is

essential • The fatty layer is the weakest link in the virus • Soap dissolves the fatty lipid layer/membrane • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water

for at least 20 seconds • In addition, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer • Water alone will probably not dislodge the sticky

virus, soap is essential

SOURCE: www.nicd.ac.za

40. Group Activity – Sing Happy Birthday i.e. Wash Hands


41. Ways to Prevent COVID-19 Infection

1. Stay at home 2. Wash hands often 3. Sanitize hands often 4. Cover coughs & sneezes with your bent elbow

or tissue




5. Dispose of tissues [should be treated as Hazardous waste]

6. Do not touch your face 7. Wear a mask 8. Disinfect surfaces 9. Wash your clothes thoroughly 10. Social distancing 11. Stay informed 12. Teach, inform, and train others 13. Comply with presidential lockdown instructions 14. Cooperate with disease control efforts 15. Conduct meticulous cleaning and disinfection 16. Flu shots will not protect against COVID-19, but

will ease the burden on healthcare facilities 17. Remember, new outbreaks can emerge rapidly

PROTECTION FROM COVID-19

42. What PPE is Available for COVID-19?

Depending on the assessed risk, the following PPE may avert the transmission of the virus:

• Face shield • Gloves [limited application]. They do not stop you

from touching your face • Goggles • Gown • Hazmat suit • KN95 respirator - Use masks without a one-way

valve as some respirator open when exhaling allowing the virus to spread through the valve

• Mask cloth • Mask Surgical

43. Group Activity – Demonstrate all Relevant PPE


44. Considerations when using a Mask

Any measure that reduces transmission or contraction of the COVID-19 virus, is better than no protection, however consideration must be given to:

• Awareness, information, instructions, and training • Clear guidance on how to wear a mask • Creation of a false sense of security • Donning and doffing • Effective fit, comfort, and practicality • Following all other protection and avoidance

measures • Hazardous waste disposal • Must be used sensibly. Masks are not face shields. • Recycling/washing/sterilization • Self-contamination by touching an infected mask • Subconscious/spontaneous removal for smoking,

drinking, eating, and speaking • Supervision and disciplinary procedures • The discipline not to fiddle with a mask • The mask may not adequately stop viruses • The shortage of masks for health care workers • Zero sharing allowed

45. How to Put On, Use, Take Off and Dispose of A Mask?

Surgical masks and face shields used by medical and healthcare personnel can only be used once

Donning [putting on] a mask

• Disinfect hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before touching the mask

• Inspect the mask for damage • Identify the top side [the metal strip] • Ensure the coloured side of the mask faces outwards • Place the mask on your face • Secure the elastic loops behind you ears • Position and pinch the metal strip or stiff edge of the

mask to mold to the shape of your nose • Pull down the bottom of the mask so it covers your

mouth and your chin • Do not fiddle with it




• To discourage touching the mask, tie a scarf over the mask

46. Title How to Take Off & Dispose of a Mask?

Doffing PPE [taking off]

• Perform hand hygiene • Remove the elastic loops from behind the ears • Keep the mask away from your face and clothes • Avoid touching potentially contaminated surfaces of

the mask • Immediately discard the mask in a Hazardous waste

bag or bin • Perform hand hygiene • Notify the cleaners of the contents of the bag or bin

SOURCE: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks

https://www.nebraskamed.com/sites/default/files/documents/COVID-19/PPE_infographic.pdf

47. The Safe Disposal Of COVID-19 Hazardous waste

• Inform & train your cleaning staff in Hazardous waste management procedures

• Protect cleaners from contaminated PPE, tissues & cleaning material

• Used Masks, gloves, coveralls, etc., must be treated as Hazardous waste

• Cross-contamination from improper handling of waste may occur

• Marked containers must be provided in suitable locations

• Deliberately separate Hazardous waste from general waste

• Use a foot-operated waste bag-lined bin • Do not overfill the Hazardous waste bags - tie them

securely

• Store full Hazardous waste bags in a locked room/cupboard/wheelie bin

CLOTH FACE-MASKS – [CFM]

48. Everyone in SA must wear a cloth mask

In addition to legislation and DIRECTIONS, everyone in SA must wear a cloth mask in public, says Health Minister Zweli Mkhize

49. Cloth Masks – Gazette 43257

30. The main benefit of everyone wearing a cloth mask is to reduce the amount of virus droplets being coughed up by those with the infection and transmitted

• to others and • to surfaces that others may touch.

Since some persons with the virus may

• not have symptoms or may • not know they have it,

the Department of Health requires that

• all persons wear cloth masks when in a public place.

31. For the reasons underlying the Department of Health’s requirement,

every employer must – 31.1

• provide each of its employees, • free of charge, • with a minimum of two cloth masks,

which comply with the requirement set out in the Guidelines issued by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition,

• for the employee to wear while at work and • while commuting to and from work; and




31.2 require

• any other worker to wear masks in the workplace.

32. The number and replaceability of cloth masks that must be

• provided to an employee or • required of other workers

must be determined in accordance with any sectoral guideline and

in the light of the employee or worker’s conditions of work,

in particular,

• where these may result in the mask becoming wet or soiled.

50. Cloth Masks Training - Gazette 43257

Every employer must ensure that workers are

• informed, • instructed, • trained and • instructed as to the correct use of cloth masks.

34. An employer must make appropriate arrangements for

• the washing, drying, and ironing of cloth masks

in accordance with the Guidelines referred in clause 31.1 recommendations.

51. Cloth Face-Masks – [CFM]

Surgical masks are in short supply and should be reserved for healthcare personnel and essential workers

TO QUOTE” The use of cloth face-masks does not reduce the need for other prevention strategies and should never be promoted separately from hand-washing (or

sanitizing), physical distancing and other components of cough/sneeze hygiene.”

Source https://sacoronavirus.co.za/.

CFM are an emergency substitute for surgical masks, not an ideal replacement.

52. Cloth Face-Masks Warning

WARNING:

• Purpose of the CFM is to reduce the possibility of inhaling or exhaling the COVID 19 virus

• Always wear them when in public • Improper use and cleaning may expose users to the

risk of spreading Covid-19 • To reduce exposure, it is vital that CFM are used

properly • CFM absorb moisture from exhaled breath • Moisture reduces the effectiveness • Have at least two cloth masks [wear one, wash one] • Respect the safe care of your CFM • Train those washing, disinfecting, and sanitizing your

CFM

53. Cloth Face-Masks – Considerations

The ideal CFM must be:

• Washable, disinfected, and sanitized • Made of multiple layers of filtration material • Designed to cover the ENTIRE mouth and nose • Allow for unrestricted breathing • For single use only, before washing • Fit comfortably • Limit air flow through gaps • Secured around the ears or head • Cleaned and stored in individual sanitized plastic

bags • New Ziploc bags are ideal for storing and

transporting clean CFM




54. Using A Cloth Mask - Donning “Fitting”

• Only use washed and ironed CFM • Sanitize your hands before and after use • Wash your face with soap and water before and

after use • Position the CFM with the inner side facing your face • Make sure CFM totally covers your mouth and face • Adjust the elastic bands or ties / strings securely

around your ears or behind your head • Adjust CFM to get the best fit • Never touch the cloth part • Once on, leave the CFM alone. Do not fiddle with it • Lowering when speaking, coughing, or sneezing is

not advised • DO NOT TOUCH YOUR FACE

55. Using a Cloth Mask – Doffing “Removal”

• Treat used CFM as biohazard / hazardous waste • Sanitize your hands before and after use • Remove the CFM by undoing the ties or releasing the

elastic bands • Take care not to touch the inner or outer surfaces • Cautiously fold the mask inside out • Place the CFM in a disposable plastic bag • Keep CFM away from other laundry • Prepare CFM for washing • Wash your hands and face after use

56. CFM Washing, Disinfection and Sanitization

• Wash separately from other laundry • Wash your CFM daily • Bleach-like compounds add to the sanitization

process • Soap and detergents kill the COVID-19 virus • Boiling CFM to sanitize, but may also damage the

fabric

57. Hand Wash

• Wash separately from other laundry • Place CFM in a bucket or basin containing hot water,

soap, or detergent • Wash vigorously for 20 seconds • Rinse in clean hot water • Dry in the sun [UV rays are a natural disinfectant] • Iron to dry, or once dried, for further disinfection

58. Machine Wash

• Wash separately from other laundry • Place in a washing machine • Wash with hot water, soap, or detergent • Rinse in clean hot water • Tumble or sun dry [UV rays are a natural

disinfectant] • Iron to dry, or once dried, for further disinfection

MAKE YOUR OWN MASKS

59. Make Your Own Masks - Protect Healthcare Workers!

• The WHO urges people to use masks wisely and correctly

• Experts from University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital have devised do-it-yourself face masks to help people battle coronavirus

SOURCE: https://youtu.be/aNjpH5lBZ8w

There are countless patterns and tutorials on YouTube, however, filtration quality, recycling and disposal must be considered

60. Group Activity – Each to Make their Own Masks

You will need the following components:




• Paper-Towels [Outer] • Toilet Paper [Filtration] • Masking-Tape • Scissors • Paper Punch • 1 Paper Clip • 4 Elastic Bands


61. Group Activity – Fold your own CFM

You will need the following components:

• 1 Dishcloth or similar • 2 Elastic bands


PREPARE YOUR HOME

62. Prepare your Home for COVID-19

In the event of a lockdown and to minimize the crisis:

• Create, review, update, discuss and implement home-based emergency plans

• Create an emergency WhatsApp group of family members, friends, neighbors, health care providers, teachers, employers, and others

• Join neighborhood FaceBook pages • Select a well-ventilated room you could use to

isolate family members who become sick • Plan ways to care for the elderly and those at higher

risk • Know the plans of your children’s childcare, schools

and/or colleges • Call the doctor or health care provider to update

them on symptoms • Do NOT go to your healthcare provider

• Call in advance for directions to the appropriate healthcare facility

Keep an emergency supply of:

• Prescription medications, thermometer, first aid kit • Water, gas, food, pet food, batteries, etc.

PREPARE YOUR WORKPLACE

63. Update your Health & Safety Management System

The OHSA & Regulations require the establishment of an OHS management system:

• Appointments • Identify Hazards • Assess Risks • Rate Risks • Control Measures • Safe Work Procedures • Risk Profile • Info Instructions & Training • Supervision • Auditing & Monitoring

64. Update your Health & Safety Training content

OHSA & Regulations require updated Information, Instructions & Training for:

• Employer, CEO • Supervisors • Health & Safety Reps And Committee • Hazard Identification And Risk Assessors • First Aiders • Investigators • Etc.

65. Prepare your Workplace for COVID-19




• Assess the reliance the economy has on your services or products

• Create and test your essential functions business continuity plan

• Cross-train personnel to perform essential functions • Inform, instruct, and train your employees in

measures to prevent illness • Develop guidelines for employees to work from

home • Establish procedures for symptomatic employees

and contractors • Implement a pre-outbreak dedicated cleaning

routine • Provide liquid soap, water, and alcohol-based hand

sanitization • Acquire a supply of suitable PPE • Monitor for and discourage workplace stigma and

discrimination • Pay close attention to hazard warnings and

instructions for using cleaning material

66. Measures in Respect of Workplaces to which Public Have Access

Gazette 3257 says:

37.3 if appropriate,

• undertake symptom screening measures of persons • other than the employees entering the workplace • with due regard to available technology and • any guidelines issued by the Department of Health.

37.4 if appropriate,

• display notices advising persons • other than employees entering the workplace • of the precautions they are required to observe

while in the workplace.

37.5 require members of the public, including suppliers,

• to wear masks when inside their premises.

67. Prepare your Workplace for COVID-19

• Engineering controls • Admin Controls i.e. Shifts • Physical Barriers • Signage • Layout & Traffic Patterns • Medical Surveillance • Air-Filters • Hazardous waste Protocols • Work from home • Couriers • Digital Communication • Online Meetings • Etc.

68. Prepare your Workplace for Symptomatic Employees

If someone shows signs of COVID-19, isolate, avoid contact with them and immediately:

• Refer to your organization policies and procedures • Tell them to wear a surgical mask and face shield • All who encounter/ed them to wear a surgical mask

and face shield • Move them to a private room away from others • Notify your local health authorities • Clean everything they may have touched • Create a list of all who they were in touch with • Tell their family to stay at home, away from others • Implement immediate social distancing • Do not allow employees to leave the premises until

authorised to do so • Consider work closure on advice of the health

authorities

69. Specialized Training for First Aider/s

General Safety Regulation 3 (5) of the OHSA requires:

An employer shall at a workplace where




• a high-risk substance [organism]

or toxic, corrosive or similar hazardous substances are used, handled, processed or manufactured,

ensure that the First Aid worker contemplated in sub regulation (4)

• is trained in the First Aid procedures

that are necessary for the treatment of injuries that may result from such activities,

• including the acute detrimental effects of exposure to such substances, &

• in the emergency procedures

which are necessary in the case of accidental leakage or

• dumping of such substances [hazardous waste].

70. Report Certain Incidents to Inspector

OHSA Section 24 Employer Is required to:

in each work-related incident in which

any person, (Inc. non-employee)

• dies

becomes unconscious,

loses a part or a limb or is injured

• becomes ill & • is likely to die or

suffers permanent disability or

• unable to work for 14+ days or • continue with the activity • he was busy with

71. Report of Diseases by Doctor

OHSA Section 25 requires that any medical practitioner who examines or treats a person

for a disease described in the 2nd schedule of COID Act

• or any other disease • which he believes arose out of that person's

employment • shall report the case

in the prescribed period & manner to

• the person’s employer & • the Chief Inspector • and inform that person accordingly

72. Investigate Incidents

Investigation is critical for the following reasons:

• IDENTIFY remove or control the “Root Causes”

• REVEAL the true situation encountered by employees at work

• PREVENT similar incidents in future • DETERMINE responsibility for the occurrence of an

incident • FULFILL the legal requirement • SHOW commitment to employee’s

Health & Safety • IMPROVE the H&S Management SYSTEM

COVID-19 DISCRIMINATION

73. Strategies to Counter Discrimination [Stigma]

Viruses do not target specific racial or ethnic groups

• Do not make assumptions based on ethnicity, race, gender, or nationality

• People of Asian descent are NOT more likely to get or carry COVID-19

Stick to the facts

• Be transparent about COVID-19




• Education on how the COVID-19 spreads can help halt stigma

• Recognize access to information & language barriers • Rely on and share trusted sources of information • Stay updated and informed on COVID-19

Stigmatized people tend to go underground

• Avoid stigmatizing people in quarantine or self-isolation

• Be conscious of your language and communications • Show compassion and support for individuals and

communities • Speak up if you hear, see, or read stigmatizing or

harassing comments or misinformation • Support communities where there is limited access

to credible information • Talk openly about the harm of stigma • View people directly impacted first as people, then

as patients

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

74. Group Activity – Questions & Answers


75. FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

UPDATED INFORMATION

Where can I get the most reliably information on the Virus?

• https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

• https://sacoronavirus.co.za/ • https://www.gov.za/coronavirus/guidelines/ • https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-

ncov/index.html

IMPORTED PRODUCTS

Am I at risk for COVID-19 from a package or products shipped to me?

• No. Take the standard precautionary measures

PREGNANCY

I am pregnant. Am I at increased risk of COVID-19?

• No greater risk than the general population • Pregnant women should continue with standard

precautionary measures

CORONA BEER

Can I get COVID-19 from Corona Beer?

• No • Beer neither causes infection with a virus, and it

does not cure it • Too much beer lowers your faculties and may cause

you to forget to take precautions

CHINESE FOOD

• Can you get COVID-19 if you eat at Chinese restaurants or takeaways?

• No • No greater risk than eating food from another public

venue

TRAVEL

Only essential travel is allowed

• Travellers must try to avoid all contact with other passengers via social distancing

• All travellers should continue with standard precautionary measures

WHAT ABOUT FUNERALS?

Only registered funeral directors may handle deceased persons

• Be kind, staying mindful of actions that could perpetuate discrimination associated with COVID-19

• Bereaved families and from all cultures and backgrounds will find this time challenging




Consider:

• Live stream or provide photos of the service and/or burial

• Cremate the deceased and bury the ashes at a later date

• Hold a memorial service when restrictions on gatherings are lifted

Get your information from reliable and accurate sources, rather than to buying into hype and misinformation

STAY INFORMED & UPDATED

76. Stay Informed and Updated

Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the websites and social media of:

SA Coronavirus The Department of Health

• Website www.sacoronavirus.co.za • WhatsApp +27 60 012 3456

The Department of Health

• Website www.health.gov.za • FaceBook www.FaceBook.com/HealthZA • Twitter www.twitter.com/HealthZA

National Institute for Communicable Diseases

• Website www.nicd.ac.za • Twitter www.twitter.com/nicd_sa • FaceBook https://tinyurl.com/r2qzdzm

World Health Organization

• Website www.who.int

• FaceBook https://tinyurl.com/vgb28bf

77. Reporting Fake News

“Fake News” means statements made with the intention to deceive as contemplated in the Disaster Management Regulations, 2020

What are the types of Fake News?

• Disinformation: Information that is false and deliberately created to harm a person, social group, organization, or country for the purposes to influence public opinion or obscure the truth

• Mal-Information: Deliberate publication of private information for personal or private interest, as well as the deliberate manipulation of genuine content

• Misinformation: Information that is false but not created to cause harm or misleading readers

How do I report Fake News?

• [e-mail] [email protected] • [WhatsApp] 067 966 4015

78. Hotlines

• COVID-19 24-Hour Hotline Number: 0800 029 999 • COVID-19 WhatsApp Number: 0600 12 3456

WORKPLACE PLAN

79. Post Lockdown Workplace Plan– Notes From China

A South African working in China provided some post lockdown insights into their daily precautions at work

• Only essential staff at the workplace • Take the employees temperature when entering the

premises • 100°F (37.8°C) is used as the cutoff




• Keep a record of each employee’s temperature • Test their temperature three times a day • Employees all need to wear masks • Employer provides 2 x sterilized KN95 mask for each

employee weekly • No full hazmat suits are required • Protected cleaners spray the factory and offices

during the day, every day • Employees with a fever get isolated to one of the

dormitory rooms • Local healthcare professionals are called and guide

the employer through the next steps if needed • Symptomatic employees to go for test • Stay calm but be prepared

80. Conclusion

• Discuss the OHS awareness strategy that your organisation uses to create and maintain a safe and healthy workplace. This would include competitions, posters and banners, videos, talks and formal training.

• There will be opportunities for further training. Make the most of every opportunity to gather more information.

• Please contribute to the OHS programme. Feel free to share your ideas with your OHS Rep, Supervisor or Employer.

© Research and development by Ken Annandale

Published by INTRA-SAFE (PTY) LTD

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author and publisher.

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COVID-19 EMPLOYEE TRAINING...COVID-19 Training Learner Workbook Version 04 “Demonstrate knowledge and application of COVID-19 prevention, protection and preparedness measures”