Having operated throughout the lockdown period, our EHS Manager, David Watson, has been busy ensuring that the working environment at HMD Kontro is as safe as possible for the phased return of office staff to our Eastbourne headquarters. It’s definitely safety first as office staff come back to work.
All of the teams, including the manufacturing crews, are in their own ‘work bubbles’ and have a shift rotation system for the canteen including breaks and mealtimes. A new canteen, so that office and manufacturing staff have their own dedicated facilities is now fully operational.
Staff safety measures in place at HMD Kontro now include:
- COVID-19 signage according to directives
- Hand sanitiser stations at all entrances
- Screens installed between desks and work stations
- Enhanced cleaning programmes
- ‘Clean as you go’ for all multiple use surfaces
- 2 metre social distancing wherever possible
- 1 way system in the canteen and other areas
- Grabber for opening and closing doors
Safety notices are refreshed frequently
Safety signage is frequently being changed and updated with the EHS department working closely within PHE directives. Signage is continually being refreshed with new information so that staff members are constantly being reminded of the safety directives in place, which is considered vital so that staff do not become complacent.
‘Clean As You Go’ for all multiple use surfaces
Areas with a high footfall such as the photocopier and water stations have cleaning materials adjacent so that they can be cleaned before and after use. An enhanced cleaning programme has also been implemented whereby there are two more thorough cleaning practices for multiple use areas including the canteen.
The Raptor Claw – For safe door opening and closing
As an added extra action, all staff have been equipped with a unique grabber, which conveniently attaches to their work lanyards and can be used to open doors and switch lights on and off. It’s being affectionately labelled as the ‘Raptor Claw’ by the staff, but it means door handles etc. do not have to be touched, thereby helping to prevent the spread of infection.
Gradual return of staff to the office
The phased return, with most staff expected to be back working in the office by mid October, begins with an orientation session with the EHS department. This goes through actions implemented for the team’s safety, including the rota system for the canteen, the one-way system and basic hygiene including frequent hand washing and sanitising.
