Construction Site Visits during COVID-19
Construction was permitted to restart on ongoing projects a few weeks ago with strict requirements on how to proceed. Designers have been permitted to resume work on these projects is it pertains to site visits for observation and communication.
As we near phase 2 for a more comprehensive reopening, we are reviewing the expectations of construction during this time and doing our part to ensure that we are being safe. As of today, we have developed a written protocol for site visits during this time of concern, and are sharing this protocol here.
Waldron Designs Construction Site Visit Protocol
As designers, we cannot control the general contractor or subcontractor protocol. Our operations will proceed per this protocol.
All site visits will be done by one staff-person if possible to prevent close contact. If a second staff person is needed, they will arrive separately.
On the day of each visit, we will take our temperature. If we get a reading of 100.4 or above, we will postpone the meeting or hold it virtually if possible.
Waldron Designs staff will wash hands immediately before departing the office/our home. Upon arrival, we will open the car door, apply hand sanitizer, and put on our masks before approaching the residence.
On an open-air construction site (open doors/windows), we ask that all participants keep a 6’ distance as we walk the site, ask, and answer questions. We ask that all participants wear a mask at all times and that safety protocols are being followed on the job site.
Job sites that are more enclosed, we ask for a 10’ safety distance. This may mean that we walk the space independently, taking photos and follow up with a virtual (email, phone or Zoom) discussion.
If site conditions are deemed to be unsafe, we will discontinue site visits and proceed by offering virtual site visits.
If we begin to exhibit symptoms within 14 days of a visit, we will alert all clients visited within that timeframe and self-quarantine for a minimum of 14 days after symptoms are gone.
If we get a report from a client that they are exhibiting symptoms, we will notify all clients we have been in contact with and self-quarantine for a minimum of 14 days.
Looking for the safety requirements for your job site? Here they are, and here is our quick summary. If you have an ongoing project, we highly recommend reading the full requirements:
Job sites must have running water or a washing station with soap (a single bottle of hand sanitizer is not acceptable).
Job sites must have one person assigned to confirm COVID safety protocols are followed (this can be as simple as the GC checking in at the job site each time people visit the site).
This person should review the safety protocols weekly with their team.
This person should also track all visits daily and maintain this log for at least 4 weeks.
Social distancing must be practiced- one person per 6’ radius at all times. If possible, one person on the site each day.
The employer should provide all necessary PPE, and masks, eye protection and gloves are required by all employees at all times.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Site visits MAY be performed virtually if the contractor is on board and feels comfortable conducting a Zoom visit. These visits are not quite as efficient, though they do have the benefit of being recorded.
Entering someone’s safe space is something we take VERY seriously. We understand that to some this may seem like overkill. But we must honor one another as well as take all necessary precautions for our loved ones.
Be safe!