PLoS ONE (Jan 2021)

Occupational exposures and mitigation strategies among homeless shelter workers at risk of COVID-19.

  • Carol Y Rao,
  • Tashina Robinson,
  • Karin Huster,
  • Rebecca L Laws,
  • Ryan Keating,
  • Farrell A Tobolowsky,
  • Temet M McMichael,
  • Elysia Gonzales,
  • Emily Mosites

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0253108
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16, no. 11
p. e0253108

Abstract

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ObjectiveTo describe the work environment and COVID-19 mitigation measures for homeless shelter workers and assess occupational risk factors for COVID-19.MethodsBetween June 9-August 10, 2020, we conducted a self-administered survey among homeless shelter workers in Washington, Massachusetts, Utah, Maryland, and Georgia. We calculated frequencies for work environment, personal protective equipment use, and SARS-CoV-2 testing history. We used generalized linear models to produce unadjusted prevalence ratios (PR) to assess risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection.ResultsOf the 106 respondents, 43.4% reported frequent close contact with clients; 75% were worried about work-related SARS-CoV-2 infections; 15% reported testing positive. Close contact with clients was associated with testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 (PR 3.97, 95%CI 1.06, 14.93).ConclusionsHomeless shelter workers may be at risk of being exposed to individuals with COVID-19 during the course of their work. Frequent close contact with clients was associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Protecting these critical essential workers by implementing mitigation measures and prioritizing for COVID-19 vaccination is imperative during the pandemic.