COVID-19 Prevention Measures for Outdoor Areas
Being outdoors is one of the very few environments that can be enjoyed safely despite the
coronavirus pandemic, and is an essential part of maintaining both mental and physical health.
Closing outdoor areas greatly restrict the opportunity for healthy use of open-air spaces that
allow people to relieve stress and rejuvenate themselves.
A common myth around COVID-19 transmission is that the virus cannot be contracted outside.
Yet, health and safety precautions are still critical in curbing the spread of infection, even in
outdoor spaces. Architecting safe outdoor areas and facilities require understanding the virus
and how it can be transmitted outdoors.
Close proximity is predominantly how COVID-19 is transmitted. Research is still being compiled
for transmission rates in outdoor spaces. However, it’s still considered far safer than indoor
gatherings because behaviors such as talking and coughing produce micro-droplets that
can remain in stagnant air for up to three hours. Proper ventilation and circulated outdoor air is a
much safer option than occupying poorly ventilated and crowded indoor spaces.
Health and Safety Challenges
Source: lygature.org
There are a number of obstacles that have the potential to impede creating safe outdoor areas,
but understanding each challenge is the first step in creating a safe outdoor environment.
Securing large areas becomes significantly difficult when there are multiple entry and exit
points. Determining ways to police occupancy and minimize interaction is one of the most
significant tasks to accomplish.
Aerosol transmission is a notable concern for people venturing into outdoor areas. Simple
everyday behaviors such as talking, breathing, sneezing, and coughing all generate droplets or
particles that remain suspended in mid-air and can also travel long distances and be inhaled
into the lungs. For instance, sneezing can propel aerosols up to 26 feet.
It’s important to note that the contagion has to remain sufficiently intact in the air before it
reaches the next host in order to transmit the virus, and it can be difficult to do so in outdoor
areas.
Reducing Risk in Outdoor Spaces
Source: fda.gov
Creating safe outdoor facilities requires an effective infectious disease management plan that
includes a comprehensive outline of policies and procedures.
Make sure to create hand hygiene stations. Hand-washing and hand sanitizer stations
outside of restroom facilities are vital and should become a permanent fixture of outdoor areas.
Offer additional restroom options. Closing amenities and restrooms could be the easiest way
to reduce spread, but if it’s preferred that restrooms remain open, other options can also be
considered. Touch-free, motion sensor faucets and hand dryers will decrease the spread of
infection by surfaces.
A cleaning program should also be implemented, and restrooms should be well ventilated.
Porta potties are a safer option because they can only be occupied by one person at a time, which
decreases the chance of respiratory contact. And because there’s no flush contact is minimal,
as long as the sanitation station is outside.
Limiting access, entry, and exit points with temporary barricades will help to manage
traffic and occupancy. Adding a sanitation station at the entry point will encourage the use of
hygiene practices. Disposable mask and glove dispensers are also an excellent way to promote
wearing protective equipment in your area.
Signage and markings that instruct visitors on proper social distancing, face coverings,
and the 6-feet rule should be prominently displayed throughout the space. When possible,
personnel should be stationed to patrol and monitor attendees. All patrons should be advised to
wear a mask even outdoors and depending on the severity of the outbreak in specific areas, discouraging activities that involve physical contact with people that do not share the same household may be necessary.
Staff should be fully trained on infectious disease protocols. Providing masks, sanitizer,
and education on preventing the spread of COVID-19 will make outdoor areas safer for
everyone. Employees should always wear a mask and should never report to work if they are
exhibiting symptoms.
Staff members should also be trained on proper handwashing and sanitation techniques and be
able to identify high-touch surfaces that should be cleaned consistently. Cleaning with normal
soap and water can decrease the amount of the virus on surfaces, and EPA approved
disinfectants can also be used.
Employees should make sure to wear gloves and other protective equipment as needed when
handling chemicals and never use chemicals directly on their skin or ingest them for any reason.
Also Read: How To Disinfect Your House To Protect Against Viruses
Necessity of Outdoor Areas
Source: hotelcaliforniabythesea.com
The coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted mental health, and there has been a
significant rise in telehealth services and crisis hotlines to deal with a new surge of mental
health issues. Outdoor spaces are now so much more than just simplistic areas used for
recreation.
Greenery and open-air spaces play a critical role in preserving physical and mental health, but
they must be operated safely. A well-operated outdoor area is indeed achievable with the right
planning and resources that should be implemented before your space is open to the public.
