CDC Updates Important COVID-19 Guidance For Manufacturers

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated COVID-19 guidance that is relevant to manufacturers who are still operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. New protocols cover:

• When To Quarantine. The CDC has shortened the recommended quarantine time for some individuals who have been exposed to COVID-19. The quarantine period is still 10 days for individuals who have had close contact with someone how has had COVID-19 and who themselves have not received a negative test result after their exposure. The CDC has reduced the quarantine period to seven days for an exposed person who was tested and received a negative test result after their exposure. The CDC noted that 14 days is still a recommended length to quarantine in general, but in order to lessen the strain on health systems and to reduce economic hardship, the CDC said individuals can now safely quarantine for seven or 10 days. Click here to read the guidance.
• Critical Infrastructure Sector Response Planning. The CDC has reiterated that companies should work with their state, tribal, local, and territorial public health officials to determine the safest way to reintegrate exposed workers who are not experiencing any symptoms and who have not tested positive back into onsite operations. Click here to read the guidance.
• How To Reduce The Spread Of COVID-19 Through Ventilation. The CDC has provided a list of ventilation interventions and other mitigation strategies that can help reduce the concentration of virus particles. The CDC noted that increasing outdoor air, using fans to increase the effectiveness of open windows, and improving air filtration are some of the most effective measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in manufacturing facilities. Click here to read the guidance.