Working in logistics means that many of our members are in daily contact with people across the country. According to a recent study funded by the US National Institutes of Health, Coronavirus can survive on stainless steel and plastic for 72 hours and 24 hours on cardboard, so always bear this in mind whether you’re working in an office or behind the wheel.
We want to get you ready and equipped to prevent infection and protect others by providing practical information and tips for your profession.
Top 10 tips to protect yourself and others
Tip #1
It is advisable to check load details before quoting or accepting a booking. You can contact the load-poster by phone or text to see if you’re required to take certain measures or precautions during pickup or delivery.
Tip #2
Try and go completely digital with your workflow and POD process if possible, speak with customers to discuss beforehand as they may still want a hard copy POD. Stay informed with what type of PODs your recipient is willing to accept at this time, they may accept a picture of a written signature on a piece of paper.
Tip #3
Remember to wipe your mobile screen with disinfectant wipes but we recommend not exchanging your phone, pens and paper with your customers.
Tip #4
Keep disinfectant wipes with you to clean the inside of your vehicle, especially the steering wheel.
Tip #5
Pay special attention to Euro bookings as advice and restrictions will vary between countries.
Tip #6
Don’t restrict access to restrooms for carriers. For us to protect each other we must ALL wash our hands.
Tip #7
Avoid direct contact with those showing signs of illness to prevent the transmission of the virus onto your hands.
Tip #8
It’s best to sneeze and cough into tissues. Place a waste disposal bag in your vehicle. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow. Steer clear of touching your face – this includes your eyes, lips and nose as you can infect yourself if your hands are carrying the virus.
Tip #9
There is a shortage of hand sanitisers in stores, but if you do happen to have some and you sneeze into your hands, use it immediately. If you don’t have hand sanitiser, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds.
Tip #10
Don’t worry too much about wearing surgical face masks. If you happen to have them, it wouldn’t hurt to wear them. Face masks are more beneficial to people who have the virus so they can try to stop spreading it to others should they cough or sneeze.
The article was published on . It was updated on 16 October 2024 to make it more relevant and comprehensive.
