On Fri, Apr 24, 2020 at 9:27 AM, Stuart, Ralph<Ralph.Stuart**At_Symbol_Here**KEENE.EDU> wrote:> In fact, just compiling a list of coronavirus-related issues that should be addressed would be valuable.
>
I'll throw one in: An issue I am concerned about in regard to reopening any public area is the cloth mask protocol. Cloth masks are community health measures rather than personal safety measures, so I would be reluctant to impose OSHA style expectations on the use of cloth masks by the public. On the other hand, I can imagine that these masks are likely to become reservoirs for many contaminants beyond the Covid virus.
I think that we face a major challenge in maintaining the quality of the cloth masks if we ask people to wear them in public areas while relying on the wearers to maintain them. I suspect that professional laundry services will be required to assure co-workers and the community that the masks are being appropriately cleaned.
A related question is: Are labs public areas? Few academic labs I have seen have security protocols that control who enters them and it will take a significant change in both protocol and culture in change this situation.
Thanks for asking an interesting question.
- Ralph
Ralph Stuart, CIH, CCHO
Environmental Safety Manager
Keene State College
603 358-2859
ralph.stuart**At_Symbol_Here**keene..edu
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