(Orange City)- ISU Extension and Outreach is urging farmers to take measures to protect themselves and their employees from COVID-19.
“While most of the messages feature the home setting, these guidelines also apply to businesses, such as farms with workers,” said Beth Doran, beef program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach.
According to Doran, the most important step is to ask employees how they are feeling and encourage workers to stay home when they are ill.
“Unfortunately, some sick workers are showing up to work – fearing they will lose their job if absent,” Doran said.
Doran encourages farms and other businesses to implement procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
-
Social distancing is critical. Promote physical distancing when possible by staggering starts, breaks and work locations, and increase the space in break rooms or outside lunch areas.
-
Provide personal protective equipment, such as masks or bandanas, for workers.
-
When possible, clean and disinfect shared tools and equipment and ensure that workers have access to areas and supplies where they can wash their hands.
Doran urges all farmers to adopt these measures. “These guidelines not only protect your employees, but also your family members, neighbors and communities,” Doran said. “Please, do it for everyone.”
For more information click here
