What is recommended if a worker is sneezing or coughing?

In the context of workplace health and safety, the recommendation for a worker who is sneezing or coughing to stay but avoid handling food is rooted in minimizing the risk of transmitting illnesses while still allowing the worker to remain productive. When coworkers demonstrate symptoms of respiratory distress, it is crucial to appropriately manage these symptoms to protect the health of others.

By allowing the employee to stay but instructing them to avoid handling food, the workplace upholds hygiene standards and reduces the likelihood of spreading potential pathogens. This approach strikes a balance between maintaining workforce productivity and prioritizing the health and safety of other employees and customers, especially in settings where food is being prepared or served.

Other options may propose more extreme solutions, such as immediate dismissal from the workplace or wearing a face mask, which may not be necessary depending on the specific circumstances, severity of symptoms, or nature of the workplace. This nuanced understanding of workplace health policies ensures that measures are both effective and pragmatic.