How to Operate in Public Without Gloves
Original image from George Becker on Pexels.
Recent research indicates that like most coronaviruses COVID-19 may remain virulent and contagious on surfaces for varying periods: 24 hours on cardboard to up to a few days on plastic and stainless steel (at least in the lab). However, the level of virulence attenuates over time, so the item in question will be less likely to transmit contagion the longer it’s exposed to air.
How to Open Doors
Pull the sleeve of your shirt or jacket down over your hand. Use the sleeve to turn a handle or push/pull a door. You should be able to pull long vertical handles by placing your hand through the opening and pulling the door with your wrist.
Alternatively (or if you’re wearing short sleeves) use the bottom of your shirt.
Use a hat—grab it from the inside and use the outside to grip the handle.
Use any cloth or paper towel in the same way.
Wash all clothing items that have come into contact with outside surfaces.
Alternate methods
Wait until someone goes in or out. Due to social distancing, the person may feel uncomfortable holding the door open, so be prepared to sprint for the door and get in/out before it closes. This method may be used for revolving doors, which offer added protection from others.
If you need to push the door, use a foot. Feet can also be used to push standard doors that do not latch.
How to Push Buttons
Use an item of clothing to push the buttons, as in “How to Open Doors” above.
Use your elbow (this may be awkward for high-floor elevator buttons).
Use a pen, key, coin, rolled up piece of currency, selfie stick, or lighter to press buttons.