Hello Team,
As some of you are aware, Governor Kemp held a Press Conference on Tuesday, May 12, 2020, to update citizens of Georgia on COVID-19. Governor Kemp has moved classroom size from 10 people to 20 people; and while this is largely pertinent to day care centers, schools, and other such academic environments, it will also be helpful to agencies such as ours as we begin to discuss what our plans will be in re-starting services in the more traditional way; particularly with our group programs.
DBHDD has suggested that we make no changes in our I/DD programming in terms of returning to F2F day service operations until after the state of emergency ends on June 12, 2020.
GACSB, in concert with our BH Section, is in the process of gathering information from CSBs around the state regarding plans and recommendations on re-starting traditional services, including transportation operations. This information will then be organized and distributed to help all of us frame our own conversations around moving forward with reopening these services.
Additionally, we will continue to stay abreast of information that is disseminated from the Governor’s Office, CDC, and DPH as it pertains to phasing in more in-person operations.
Please be reminded of the following critical best practices as we continue operations at the CSB of Middle Georgia:
- Practice Social Distancing while at work, keeping at least six (6) feet of distance between individuals as much as is possible.
- The CSB of Middle Georgia encourages morale-building and camaraderie among our close-knit staff, including having break and lunch time together, and expects staff to follow social distancing guidelines during such times. Boxed or bagged lunches, individually wrapped snacks, or cafeteria styled/served meals are recommended.
- Social distance recommendations and proper infection control practices should be followed during staff and client use of common areas such as break rooms/dining areas/smoking areas.
- Adhere to proper and best practice hygiene techniques, including handwashing/hand sanitizing after entering facilities, eating, and sanitizing/disinfecting your workstations and vehicles daily.
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- Have temperature taken upon entering work site.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and encourage hand sanitizer use after handwashing, whenever possible.
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Thank you all again for your conscientious approach and efforts to keep everyone safe and healthy during our time together. Information and further updates will be disseminated as it becomes available.
Denise Forbes