Being a key worker but worried

longwalks1

Going to ask a question that doesnt seem to come up.  If someone classed as a 'key worker' (working in the Pharma industry) doesnt have any underlying health issues, such a COPD, diabetes, heart issue but is genuinely scared of falling ill, even though they practise the social distancing, the 2m gap, washing hands for 20 seconds or more every hour of the day, wear gloves on the rare occasion I touch anything public such as door handles etc, do we still have to go to work?  This issue isnt a 'one off', or someone wanting a few days off, (half the work force are 'self isolating' anyway) its someone genuinely worried about catching something from someone else.  2m rule isnt followed in work, its not possible if you have 3 of 4 people working on a job.  Theres already been heated discussions/arguements between colleagues who have taken offence by someone being too close, breathing near them etc.  It is only a matter of time before tensions boil over.  These are employees who've worked together for 8 or 10 years or longer.  Not strangers.

what are the rules/guidelines over key workers not feeling safe in the workplace?  It cant be raised and its a case of 'you're in because we need to get this stuff out the door', which i fully understand, but sometimes people can feel a little less valued than those in offices in the same building who are all working from home because of the virus fears. 

mwarby

I think it’s quite normal to be scared, it’s partly the unknown and also the knowledge that there is a risk however small that you may end up seriously ill or worse

it sounds like your taking all the precautions you can. You probably can’t reduce the risk to zero. You should all be taking reasonable precautions, but with the realisation you have an import job to do for the greater good

I suspect most of your colleagues are also doing their best and everyone needs try to make allowances for the stress everyone is feeling