Dealing with the common cold is never fun, especially when you have to go to work. You may feel like you can’t breathe, your head is throbbing, and your nose is constantly congested. Not to mention, all of that sneezing and coughing! In this post, we will answer the following questions: Should you go to work when you’re sick or should you stay home? How can you get through your cold? And how can you prevent catching a cold in the first place?

Should you go to work if you have a cold?

If you’re feeling well enough to work, then there may be no need to stay home. However, if you’re feeling really sick, it’s probably best to stay home and rest. This way, you can avoid infecting your co-workers and help yourself recover faster.

Take a COVID test!

Before heading off to work, make sure to take a RAT test to be sure it’s not Covid. If your test comes up positive, you need to do the following:

1. Report your positive RAT result to Queensland Health.
2. Immediately isolate for 7 days
3. Tell your household contacts to follow the steps for close contacts
4. Manage your symptoms and health at home.  Only call Triple Zero (000) or go to an emergency department if you have severe symptoms. 
5. Get the things you need delivered like food and medication
6. Tell your social, work and education contacts to get tested if they have symptoms

For more information on current COVID guidelines in QLD, click here.

Provided your RAT test comes up negative, you may choose to go to work.

What are some ways to prevent spreading your cold at work:

• Drink lots of fluids, especially water. This will help keep your throat moist and flushed out.
• Get as much sleep as you can, or at least rest as much as possible.
• Drink warm liquids. This can help soothe your throat and ease congestion.
• Gargle with warm salt water. This will help reduce swelling in your throat and kill bacteria.
• Use a humidifier. This will add moisture to the air and help keep your throat from drying out
• Drink herbal tea. This can help ease congestion and soothe a sore throat.
• Eat chicken soup. This classic remedy can help reduce congestion and ease a sore throat.

How to prevent yourself from catching a cold:

• Wash your hands regularly and often, especially before you eat.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Stay away from sick people.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Take a walk in nature. fresh air can do wonders for your health!

Hopefully these tips will help you get through your work day despite feeling under the weather! Stay healthy, everyone!

This Post Is Part Of A Series: 101 Toolbox Topic Ideas For The Construction Industry
Do you struggle to come up with toolbox talk ideas each week to discuss with your workers? Fear no more, Work Safety QLD is here to the rescue with 101 Free Toolbox Talk Ideas for the Construction Industry.