January 2019 – July 2022
One of the best ways to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus is social distancing. This includes reducing contact with others, avoiding large gatherings, and limited outings for those considered “vulnerable.” This video provides tips on the best ways to practice social distancing. https://youtu.be/2zWxhJsb5Vs
With the new emphasis on social distancing and telecommuting to help stem the spread of the COVID-19 virus, employees can take advantage of the Lab’s Zoom capabilities to meet with colleagues and others virtually. Click for instructions on setting up and participating in a Zoom meeting. https://sites.google.com/lbl.gov/zoom
As is the case during any respiratory illness season, one of the best ways to protect yourself is to keep your hands clean. This means frequent washing and sanitizing as well as politely declining handshakes (high fives and fistbumps too, sorry). Try a friendly wave or elbow bump. https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html
The Lab has issued new guidance on travel, conferences, and events. Effective immediately, the Lab has suspended all international work travel and recommends minimizing non-essential domestic travel. Read more about conferences, meetings, and event guidelines. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/03/10/march-10-covid-19-update-guidance-for-travel-conferences-and-events-visitors-and-telework/
Due to safety concerns, the American Chemical Society has canceled its annual meeting scheduled for March 22 to 26. Lab staff who were planning to attend can take steps to cancel their flight and obtain refunds for conference fees and car rental. See FAQs for more information. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/02/28/covid-19-frequently-asked-questions/#bustravel
Help is needed from every Lab citizen to better manage the life cycle of chemicals. Consider the following before purchasing: order chemicals in the smallest possible quantity, seek less toxic and more stable alternatives, and use eBuy or ePro to make the purchase. Read more about the project. https://ehs.lbl.gov/2020/03/09/smarter-safer-chemical-purchasing/
The Lab’s custodial team is increasing the cleaning of doorknobs, conference tables, and interior handrails. Restrooms will continue to be cleaned daily using disinfectant products. Elevators are also cleaned often, including disinfecting buttons, doors, and other commonly touched surfaces.
Feb. 29 is Repetitive Stress Injury Awareness Day because it is the only ‘non-repetitive’ day of the year. Repetitive stress injuries are soft-tissue injuries that can limit normal daily activities and cause persistent pain. Read more about how you can prevent these painful injuries. https://ehs.lbl.gov/2020/02/13/repetitive-strain-injury-rsi-awareness-day/
The Lab’s Site Operations Center (SOC) receives more than 10 calls a month to 911. Most are misdials, and often the caller hangs up. The SOC will call back, and if no one answers, a security officer is dispatched. Instead of hanging up, please stay on the line to explain it was a misdial. https://sites.google.com/lbl.gov/emergencies/emergency-management/emergency-notifications
Flu is different from the common cold. It comes on suddenly, and the symptoms are usually more intense. Fever can be a symptom of the flu, and if you have a fever, you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone. Download and post this colorful reminder. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/stay-home-from-work-poster.pdf