A release from the company below,
Coronavirus Information Bulletin
As the novel coronavirus (now widely called COVID-19) outbreak continues to develop both in China and around the world, many at EVRAZ North America are asking questions about the disease and the steps being taking to minimize any potential risk.
Led by our human resources and health & safety teams, we have developed appropriate procedures and plans to implement should the virus become more pervasive in the regions where our team members live and work. We continue to closely monitor this evolving situation and are reviewing up-to-date information, advisories and data from health officials in the United States and Canada.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the best way to prevent infection, whether it be the common cold, influenza or COVID-19, is to avoid exposure. We encourage team members to follow everyday preventive measures recommended by CDC and Health Canada officials:
- Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
- In cases of fever (100.4° F / 37.8° C or greater using an oral thermometer), do not come to work until you are free of fever, signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants).
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw it in the trash can.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60%-95% alcohol.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Health professionals advise that use of these measures by individuals and their families will increase resilience and readiness for responding to an outbreak. Health Canada and the CDC do not recommend the use of facemasks by otherwise healthy people for virus prevention.
For those traveling overseas, U.S. and Canadian officials recommend that you monitor your health for fever, cough and difficulty breathing for 14 days after you arrive home. If you have these symptoms, call your doctor. He or she will provide advice on what you should do. Team members in such a situation and who are sick, should also notify EVRAZ in accordance with the absence and sick policy.
The health and safety of EVRAZ North America team members is our highest priority. Response preparations and planning at EVRAZ North America facilities continues and we encourage anyone with questions or comments to reach out to your local HR and safety representatives.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as developments warrant.
For more information, visit the CDC and Health Canada Web sites.