Being safe as you arrive home

NHS Lothian have produced a really helpful infographic for those working outside the home explaining how to keep themselves and their families safe during the pandemic.

An infographic about safe practices for returning home, the text of this is reproduced in the rest of this blog post.
NHS Lothian’s guide for arriving home safely.

It says:

Before leaving work

Shower if possible and change out of work clothes.

Arriving Home

(if you’ve driven a car) wipe steering wheel, controls and door handles.

At front door

Pause. Breathe. Reset. Take your time.

Knock on door

Open from inside (if others are home). Step in.

Shout hello

To loved ones (if you have family/friends living with you). No cuddles yet.

Plastic box at door

Doff your work/commute shoes, outer clothes/coat/bag, keys, pens and glasses. Wipe down with a damp soapy cloth. 

Phone

Keep at work in a clear zip lock bag. Empty out of bag into box – wipe phone clean and throw the bag away.

Work bag

Has to be machine washable – keep in a locker at work and box by front door at home.

Walk straight to sink/shower

(If living with others) don’t touch doors, get someone else to open them from you (keep your distance while they do this). Wash or shower especially hands, arms and face with soap and hot water.

You are clean

Relax and enjoy your evening (or day, depending on when you return home/your shift ended).

(I’ve added some additional explainers in brackets).

Our Frontline offers workers more advice and support, as do these tips from the Irish Hospice Foundation.  If you work in healthcare there’s additional information from the Covid Trauma Working Group.