AT and Coronavirus Preparedness
Tips for employees using assistive technology during the COVID-19 outbreak. 
Wash Your Hands Often
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Washing can protect you from infection and help protect others if you are a carrier of the virus.
Disinfect Your Assistive Technology
According to a new study, the virus can survive on hard surfaces for up to 3 days (such as plastic and stainless steel) and up to 24 hours on cardboard. The CDC says, “Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.” Door knobs, drawer pulls, light switches, and counters, sure, but don’t forget your AT!
Masks Don't Protect You
They won’t protect you from infection but can protect others from your sneezing and coughing if you are infected.
Avoid Touching Your Mouth, Nose, and Eyes
In addition to hand washing and disinfecting surfaces, the CDC says to:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
To avoid touching your face, one suggestion frequently recommended is to use a scented lotion or even rubbing raw onion on your fingers to alert you when reaching toward your face.
Combat Social Isolation
Therese Willkomm, Director of the ATinNH (the New Hampshire AT Program), notes this may become a critical issue this virus season, particularly for elderly family members. “This is where technology can be especially useful,” she notes. If you have a tech-phobic loved one who doesn’t have the internet, one solution is taking an old smartphone and using it to create an internet hotspot (if they’re not in a cell service dead zone).
Additional Resources
For more information visit AT3 Center's blog on AP and Coronavirus Preparedness.
For further reading visit 5 Things to Know About Coronavirus and People with Disabilities or
CDC Local COVID-19 Guidance.
ABLE Tech Device Exchange and Reuse Programs
Did you know that items can be borrowed, purchased, or given to others through the ABLE Tech Device Exchange or Reuse Programs? The items vary based on availability. Create a FREE Device Exchange and Reuse account.
Phone: 405.523.4810 or 833.431.9706
Email: atreuse@okstate.edu
Oklahoma Works, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, and Oklahoma ABLE Tech have collaborated to provide this information and advice to those seeking accommodation in the workplace.