Advice for Gencat Drivers:
In Ireland the health authorities have assessed the risk to individuals from the Coronavirus as moderate. This is constantly being monitored but as of today (10 March 2020), there are currently 34 reported cases in the ROI.
Information about the Coronavirus:
The Coronavirus is in the same family as influenza and therefore is only transmitted through human to human, or animal to human contact. The most common symptoms are:
- fever
- tiredness
- dry cough
Some patients may have:
- aches and pains
- nasal congestion
- runny nose
- sore throat
- diarrhoea
To ensure the risk of catching the virus remains low, it is advised that all drivers follow the standard guidance for personal hygiene, as recommended by the World Health Organisation, in the following way:
- Wash hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleanser
- before, during and after you prepare food
- before eating
- after toilet use
- when hands are visibly dirty
- Maintain at least 1-meter distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
- When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands.
It is important that you maintain good sleep hygiene. Make sure that you get at least eight hours in bed each day. Increase your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables. Bring a packed lunch to work and where possible take your breaks away from other workers.
Ensure that you keep your cab clean and dirt free. Do not leave any waste food, paper cups, cans or paper in the cab.
Ask your transport planner to keep you in the same truck where possible.
Wipe surfaces when you get into the cab and leave the cab clean when finished.
Wear gloves when outside the cab.
When visiting customer sites follow their instructions.
Crews on Home Delivery should follow all precautions as advised by the transport office.
Contact your line manager if you feel unwell and follow their instructions.
Nobody is quite sure how this virus will affect the country. However, it is not the time to let this virus get a head start on us. Do what ever you can do to limit the spread of this nasty bug.
Your health is your wealth. Eat Well, Rest Well and be hygiene vigilant.
If you have any worries or concerns about your place of work please do call Barry, Siobhan, Maryse or Fergus at anytime.
