How Can Businesses Open Safely Post COVID-19?

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With the gradual reopening of businesses and facilities post COVID-19, numerous safety precautions have had to be taken. The CDC has laid out guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting public spaces in anticipation of larger crowds. Only by observing social distancing and practicing better habits can we reduce the risk of exposure not just for ourselves, but for everyone around us.

Storage-tank Type Water Heater Recommissioning

Tank-type water heaters are commonly known for bacteria growth, Legionella, due to stagnant water, especially in large water systems. When transmitted to people through airborne moisture, it causes infection. To mitigate Legionella in your facility, the water heating system must be analyzed to establish that water is continuously moving, especially piping to remote sections, or dead legs may not have fully circulated water. It is also recommended to flush the water heater if there has not been a hot water demand in the system for an extended period. This will mitigate the chance of bacteria growth and other waterborne pathogens. 

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Did you know that the virus responsible for causing COVID-19 can be killed with frequent disinfecting as long as the right products are used and surfaces are wiped down regularly? However, keep in mind that outdoor areas and any indoor space that has been unoccupied for more than 7 days do not need to be disinfected. This is because the virus cannot survive for that long.

High-contact touchpoints that need to be disinfected regularly include:

  • Doorknobs
  • Tables
  • Countertops
  • Light switches
  • Sinks
  • Touchscreens
  • ATMs
  • Handles
  • … and more

Safe Behavioural Practices

Besides cleaning and disinfecting, abiding by these practices will go a long way in reducing the spread of COVID-19.

  • Observe social distancing by maintain a 6 feet distance from others in shared spaces. Business and facility owners should ensure that tables are spaced out and an adequate distance maintained between members of different households.
  • Stay home when sick. In addition, employers should not allow unwell employees to report to work. Measures such as temperature screening should be carried out where possible.
  • Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth in public spaces. Avoid touching your face, especially your nose and mouth.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water. When a water supply is unavailable, hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol should be used.

Ensure Sufficient Supplies

Without doubt, personal hygiene is one of the largest contributing factors towards reducing the spread of COVID-19. Businesses should ensure that employees wash their hands frequently, particularly in the food service industry. Warm water is better at removing oils and germs from skin than cold water; businesses and facilities should ensure their water heating systems are up to the job before reopening. Additionally, a steady supply of soap should not go amiss either.

The Brigade Water Heater System for Reopening Businesses

With hand hygiene more important than ever post COVID-19, reopening businesses have their work cut out for them. If you are looking for a compact and reliable water heating system that delivers excellent results, look no further than Water Heating Direct. Our Brigade water heater system weighs just 340 lbs and can be moved easily to where you need it, whether that is the basement or utility room. This contributes to its low installation cost. Up to 50% slimmer than other tank-type water heaters in the market, the Brigade is specially designed for commercial application. As the connections go on top, other pieces of equipment can easily be fitted next to this ultra-compact, modular unit.

If you want to learn more about how Water Heating Direct can help your business reopen safely, please feel free to contact us today.

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