Step 1: Assess the risks

We have identified all risk areas and surfaces that are at higher risk (e.g. Restrooms, door knobs, faucet handles, etc.)

Step 2: Implement Protocols to reduce risks

We have consulted experts of COVID-19 task force and implemented protocols to reduce risk.

First level – Elimination: we have limited the number of people allowed in the office at any given time, advised patients to fill out consent forms online before arriving; disallowed use of restrooms.

Second level – Engineering Controls: clear barriers have been installed in our reception area and doors have been installed to enclose our operatories, at source evacuation systems and surgical grade air purifiers (late May/early June 2020)

Third level – Administrative Controls: we have established rules to keep people physically separated from each
other.

Fourth level – PPE: surgical masks, N95 masks or equivalent, bouffants, head caps, face shields, gloves, shoe covers, gowns, splatter shields, goggles/eye protection, etc. We have been trained in donning and doffing and added new disinfection protocols including the use of HOCL.

Step 3: Develop policies

Our workplace policies ensure that workers and others showing symptoms of COVID-19 are prohibited from the workplace (e.g. Those showing symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 10 days, anyone directed by Public Health to self-isolate, anyone who has arrived from outside of Canada or who has had contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case must self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for symptoms; visitors are prohibited from the workplace.)

Step 4: Develop communication plans and training

All staff has been trained in workplace policies and procedures and have received policies for staying home when sick.
We have posted signage at the main entrance indicating who is restricted from entering the premises, including visitors and workers with symptoms.

Step 5: Monitor and update plans

We will monitor our policies and change them as necessary.

Step 6: Assess and address risks from resuming operations

All staff has been trained with the new protocols to what is needed in order to safely resume operations.