The way we go about life has changed drastically in recent weeks due to the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Social distancing is in full effect, people are wearing cloth face masks while out in public and many workplaces have made dramatic changes to policies — all in an effort to curb the spread of the virus and flatten the curve.

People working at essential businesses — healthcare facilities, law enforcement, grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants offering to-go service, etc. — are still getting out and going to work during the pandemic. This raises concerns about being exposed while you’re at work and potentially bringing it home and infecting others.

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and others in your household.

While you’re at work:

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover or mask. This helps protect other people in case you are infected, even if you aren’t showing symptoms.

Are you wearing a protective face mask the correct way? Here’s how to make sure

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects or surfaces — like your workstation, keyboard, telephone, doorknobs, etc. For a list of disinfecting products that meet the EPA’s criteria for use against COVID-19, click here.

Do not share equipment or use other employees’ work tools. This is especially important for items like headsets or phones that are near the mouth and nose. If you do have to borrow something, clean and disinfect the item(s) before and after use.

Practice social distancing by avoiding large gatherings and staying at least six feet apart from others when possible.

If you have to schedule or attend a meeting, substitute videoconferencing or teleconferencing when possible. If the meeting is one that can only occur in-person, consider canceling it or holding it in an open, well-ventilated space.

Social distancing: What is means for the coronavirus and why it’s so important

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

If you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash immediately, then wash your hands.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

Visit the CDC’s website for guidance on implementing safety practices for critical infrastructure workers and guidance for businesses and employers amid the coronavirus pandemic.

After you leave work:

First and foremost, watch for symptoms. COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough and/or shortness of breath. If you are sick, think you’ve been exposed or develop symptoms, notify your supervisor, stay home and seek medical attention as necessary.

I’m sick and worried about the coronavirus: Do I stay at home, call my physician or do I need to visit the ER?

Wash your hands with soap and water as soon as you get home.

Wipe down and disinfect any surfaces you may have touched — like doorknobs, light switches, keys, etc. When you’re cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, wear disposable gloves if possible.

You can also wipe down surfaces like your car door handle, steering wheel, seat belt, etc.

Wash your clothes using the warmest appropriate water setting. Dirty laundry from someone who is sick or suspected of being sick can be washed with other peoples’ items, but it is important not to shake the dirty laundry.

Per CDC guidelines, continue wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

For additional CDC guidance, read their checklist for Getting Your Home Ready and the guide for Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home.

For first responders and law enforcement personnel:

The CDC has created very specific guidance for those working in law enforcement. Visit their site for tips on how to protect yourself from exposure, recommended personal protective equipment and more.

Separate guidance has been created for EMS workers.

Learn more about how to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19