Category: Honduras

Greenhouse gases, climate change and Honduras

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One of the main components of the atmosphere are greenhouse gases that accumulate spontaneously and due to human activities are capable of absorbing infrared radiation (heat release) from the earth’s surface, increasing and retaining heat in the earth. That is, they are those gases present on the surface of the atmosphere that give rise to the greenhouse effect.

Most GHGs are of natural origin. The abnormal increase in the concentration of GHG in the atmosphere twenty years ago according to the Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change with acronym in English IPCC is the product of the activities that man has been carrying out since the pre-industrial era. These have caused global warming which results in increased temperatures on land, air and oceans. Every year it can be seen that the climate is deteriorating rapidly, due to inappropriate human activities, causing the main problems in the environment and in people’s health. Among the main repercussions are the impacts to; health, agriculture, forests, water resources, coastal zones, wetlands, infrastructure, which affect all aspects of human life.

Human activities cause the production of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) to increase, according to the United Nations Organization. Fossil fuels are used to generate electricity, which represent a greater consumption of carbon dioxide (CO2) and for industrial processes, deforestation, decomposition of solid and liquid waste, poor practices in agriculture and livestock, inefficient industrial processes and refrigerant gases.

Climate change is currently registered as one of the greatest global challenges for humanity. To deal with it, mitigation activities must be implemented to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and it is also important to establish adaptation measures to climate change to reduce its negative impacts and make the most of the opportunities it generates.

According to the Scientists of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in their V and latest report (known as AR5, 2013), they report with 95% certainty that human activities with an intensive use of fossil fuels (carbon, natural gas and petroleum-derived fuels) are causing additional global warming to that of natural cycles, and show that on land, in the air and in the oceans global warming is unequivocal. In addition, they conclude that “even if there were the possibility of immediately stopping all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, there would in any case be unavoidable damages of considerable magnitude that have already begun to be caused or will occur in the future, being in many irreversible cases.

For what the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Climate Change establishes in the report of the Working Group II of the AR5: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability, presented in March 2014 the following:

  • Forecast for the Central American region: Increase in temperature and sea level, water scarcity, urban flooding, threat to food production, increase in tropical diseases, loss of biodiversity, among others.
  • Reaffirmation: Climate change is an indisputable phenomenon that has significant adverse effects and in many cases irreversible consequences, giving prominence to the urban environment as a key sector in terms of adaptation.

For Honduras, the impact of climate change for several years has been a reality that affects all species and ecosystems without distinction, and will continue to be one of the greatest challenges in the years and decades to come. The experiences that Honduras suffers each year in the face of extreme climate change phenomena, such as increased temperatures and heat waves, droughts, short-term torrential rains and floods, and an increase in tropical diseases, have generated great damage, economic and human losses. .

For more than seven years (since 2006) we have been classified as the third most vulnerable country and for the sixth consecutive year (since 2012), as the first country in the world most vulnerable to being hit by the extreme effects of climate change between 1997 -2016.

The report prepared by Germanwatch, according to the Global Climate Risk Index 2018, points out “in relative terms, the poorest developing countries are hit much more severely. The results show that less developed and poor countries are much more vulnerable to climate risks, although monetary losses are substantially higher in richer countries. Loss of life, human emergency and existential threat are also much more widespread in low-income countries.

The effects of climate change and vulnerability that are also evidenced in several national and regional studies and research of great importance, such as those of the Economics of Climate Change in Central America, where it is highlighted that Honduras and the rest of the Central American countries require an annual investment of 1.5 to 8% of their annual GDP to adapt to climate change.

Therefore, climate change is also a reality for the Capital of Honduras, the Municipality of the Central District (DC: Tegucigalpa and Comayagüela), an aspect that has become more acute after the ravages that Hurricane Mitch in 1998 left on the economy, health , infrastructure of the Central District among others, which shows the urgency of having a capital prepared to adapt to the effects of climate change.

Cities have gained prominence in climate action due to their direct intervention in the territory and their proximity to neighbors and institutions. A large part of the global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are generated in them and, on the other hand, they are evident in greater The National Adaptation Plan is currently in its final draft version, in the “public hearing” phase in an Open Government Platform, to receive comments or observations. Once this stage is completed (until March or April 2018), it will be updated and the impacts of climate change will be considered as the final version.

It should be noted that the Government of Honduras already has a National Adaptation Plan (PNA), through the National Climate Change Directorate (DNCC) of MiAmbiente.

The way to face and combat climate change is through adaptation and mitigation; Mitigation consists of reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) through:

  • Renewable energy projects.
  • Energy efficiency projects.
  • Capture of methane from wastewater and municipal dumps.
  • Recovery of degraded areas.
  • Avoid deforestation.
  • Use of Biomass to generate electricity.
  • Biodigesters (Use of the gas and organic fertilizer that is produced.
  • Efficient kitchens.
  • Avoid the use of urea.
  • Activities that help to stabilize GHG in the atmosphere, control the increase in the earth’s temperature and reduce the vulnerability of Honduras and the Global Climate System.

Adaptation is the answer to survive the extreme effects of climate change by implementing;

  • Improve early warning and monitoring systems.
  • Relocation from stable areas to populations living in high-risk areas.
  • New ways of building (Bridges, Roads, Houses, ETC.).
  • New forms of land use without fertilizers (Urea fertilizers heat the earth 380 times more than CO2).
  • New forms of livestock activities.
  • Disaster risk preparedness.

This seeks to learn to live with the extreme effects of climate change, to reduce human and material losses; But it does not diminish the country’s vulnerability to the extreme effects of climate change. 

Reports on Compliance with Environmental Control Measures Honduras

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The Environmental Control Measures Compliance Reports (ICMA) are necessary for the registration of environmental control and monitoring actions of  projects  with an Environmental License in Honduras. The reports are required throughout the life of the project, including its   construction, operation  and closure stages,  which have an Environmental License . This requirement is applicable when so provided by  MIAMBIENTE or  any Honduran   authority  with environmental competence .  The ICMA  serves as a periodic monitoring report  on control measures  established in the environmental instrument presented before MIAMBIENTE called  ” Manual of Evaluation  and Environmental Control”  

ICMAs are intended  to  document compliance  with the mitigation  measures assumed by the developer of a project with an Environmental License in its different stages and activities . The ICMA  allows   project operators to  monitor their actions and  document their duties ,  in order to  ensure adequate environmental management .   

The Reports of Compliance with Environmental Control Measures  must be prepared by a professional registered in the Registry of Environmental Services Provider of   the  Secretary of Natural Resources and Environment  

For the preparation of the ICMA, the following must be considered: 

  • Carry out periodic inspections on the site in order to verify compliance with environmental measures. 
  • Keep in contact with the personnel in charge of the execution of the project with the purpose of knowing the environmental measures and exchanging information to prevent, reduce or correct environmental impacts. 
  • Collection of data on environmental management. 
  • Take documentation and photographic record of the actions they perform. 
  • Survey of spatial data in order to georeference the location. 

  

Environmental Management System in Honduras

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Environmental Management is the set of    activities,  processes , policies   carried out by a company    in order to  balance  economic development  , the proper use of resources and environmental protection.   

Organizations  that implement an Environmental Management  System generate  greater trust with their clients and a better position in the market, since they must comply with all the environmental requirements established by the administration, clients, and society as such to ensure compliance with sustainable development as a company . . 

The Environmental Management System is responsible for developing, implementing, reviewing and maintaining all the environmental commitments  assumed by  the company ,  following the PHVA methodology : Plan , Do, Verify, Act.    

It must be taken into account that the implementation  of an Environmental Management System is a process of continuous improvement  that implies the periodic review of:  Environmental Policy, Environmental Review, Planning, Implementation,  Internal Audit,  External Environmental Communication, Measurement and Evaluation . . 

Some of the advantages of implementing an Environmental Management System  are: 

  • It allows to know the environmental legislation  related to the activity that is developed. 
  • It strengthens relations with local authorities  as it  means  working together  for  environmental improvement  and above all for improving people’s quality of life. 
  • Recorded  and controlled resources, obtaining savings in energy, water, process efficiency and, above all, reducing the amount of waste generated. 
  •  Corrective measures in the event of system failures. 
  • Increase in the quality of the services provided and greater efficiency in the development of the company’s activities  thanks to the constant evaluation process . 
  • Improvement of the image of the company through  the  commitments  with the  environment , also with this it is possible to obtain  a better position in the market. 

A tool to implement an adequate Environmental Management System  is the international standard ISO 14001:2015, which  aims to provide organizations with a reference framework to protect the environment and adapt to changing environmental conditions ,  in balance with socioeconomic needs . .    

Implementing the Environmental  Management System under the ISO 14001:2015 standard provides international certification ,  which differentiates the organization  for  its commitment to the  environment and provides a business opportunity.

  

Biosafety Guidelines for land cargo transportation in Central America

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These guidelines were approved by the Council of Ministers of Economic Integration (COMIECO) and the Council of Ministers of Health of Central America and the Dominican Republic (COMISCA), with the following objectives:

  1. establish coordinated procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19,
  2. guarantee the health of cargo carriers,
  3. the cleaning and disinfection of means of transport and,
  4. the fluidity of trade.
  1. BIOSAFETY GUIDELINES FOR LAND FREIGHT TRANSPORT COMPANIES:

1.1. Entry and Exit of the facilities of the land cargo transport company.

  1. a) Disinfection of general work areas and parking of means of transport.
  2. b) Disinfection of means of transport before and after each service/operation.
  3. c) The permanent use of the mask.
  4. d) Establish an inspection point for taking the temperature of all workers who enter the facilities, for which there must be a person responsible for taking the temperature with a digital infrared or laser clinical thermometer to avoid contact, the responsible person must be properly protected (surgical mask, glasses and disposable gloves).
  5. e) Maintain the recommended distances between people (between 1.5 and 2 meters).
  6. f) Use the shoe wash or footbath with a disinfectant solution.
  7. g) Install 70% alcohol-based hand gel alcohol dispensers in the entrance areas for hand disinfection.
  8. h) Workers who present a temperature above 37.5°C will not be able to enter the facilities, they must be referred to the corresponding health centers established by the authorities or call the corresponding competent authority.
  9. i) Wash hands with soap and water and/or disinfect with alcohol or hand sanitizer gel (70% alcohol-based) when entering or leaving the facilities.
  10. j) It is recommended that companies reorganize their operations in such a way that if they have drivers or pilots who present greater health risks (hypertension, diabetes, among other conditions that increase their vulnerability) they can assign them other functions within the company so as not to expose them during travel and reduce the risk of contagion.
  11. k) Drivers or pilots must comply with all health provisions before, during and after starting a trip.

1.2. HYGIENE AND PERSONAL CARE GUIDELINES FOR FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION DRIVERS.

  1. Disinfect your hands every time you enter and exit the means of transportation.
  2. Maintain a recommended safety distance (between 1.5 and 2 meters).
  3. Do not shake hands or any greeting that involves contact with another person.
  4. Perform constant personal hygiene, as well as washing utensils and clothes daily.
  5. Perform constant disinfection of cell phones, keys or other personal objects.
  6. Disinfect footwear with a disinfectant solution.
  7. Do not self-medicate; in case of presenting symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, dry cough or
  8. difficulty breathing) go immediately to the nearest health center or
  9. call the corresponding competent authority (or rapid attention line of the
  10. country).

1.2.1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  1. 70% alcohol-based hand gel
  2. Disposable gloves
  3. Surgical type mask
  4. Protective glasses or face shield

and. disinfectant liquid soap

  1. powder detergent
  2. Gallon-size container of drinking water
  3. Infrared or laser digital clinical thermometer for temperature taking

1.2.2. Use of supplies.

  1. Every official who exercises controls at land border posts and cargo transport workers must have basic biosafety supplies (mask, glasses, alcohol disinfectant gel and disposable gloves).
  2. Each person is responsible for the proper use of the same and the surveillance and monitoring of the use and good sanitary practices.
  3. Guarantee that all personnel use the required PPE, according to their work activity, to prevent the transmission of the virus as provided for in the national legislation of the Member States.
  4. Personal protective equipment will be appropriate to the activities and work to be carried out.

and. Guarantee that users periodically clean and disinfect their PPE, workers are responsible for its adequate disinfection.

  1. Request the replacement of the PPE when it is damaged, do not share for any reason.
  2. Put on the PPE before entering the facilities, the disposable PPE once used will be discarded using the appropriate techniques.
  3. Discard the disposable PPE, in the appropriate waste containers, labeled with the precise warnings.
  4. Wash hands with soap and water and/or disinfect with alcohol or disinfectant gel after removing PPE.
  5. The use of PPE is an essential requirement for those activities in which there is frequent and close contact with people.
  6. Wearing disposable gloves throughout the work day can generate a false sense of security and should not, for any reason, replace hand washing with soap and water or disinfection with disinfectant gel on a regular basis.
  7. PREVENTION GUIDELINES TO BE CONSIDERED BY THE TRANSPORT COMPANIES IN THE FACE OF SUSPICIOUS AND SICK CASES.
  8. All drivers or pilots and freight transport personnel must be trained not only to know what to do when a COVID-19 infection is suspected, but also to promote prevention measures.

Therefore, it is recommended that everyone be trained in:

  1. Information about COVID-19, in particular about the symptoms, the incubation period and the modes of transmission of the virus.
  2. Epidemiological information on the affected areas.

iii. Information on disinfectants and proper hand hygiene.

  1. Information on how to proceed in case of symptoms.
  2. Informative materials.

saw. Information on fast service lines in each country.

  1. In case of presenting symptoms associated with COVID-19, the worker must follow the following recommendations:
  2. If you have symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat and difficulty breathing; Go to the nearest health center or call the corresponding competent authority to request assistance or another mechanism determined by the competent authority.
  3. Follow the instructions provided by the health personnel by calling the corresponding competent authority (or the country’s hotline) or attending the health center.

iii. The decision to continue or not the trip of the pilot or driver will be made by the public health authorities in close coordination with the authorities that exercise control of the land border posts.

  1. The means of transport must be isolated in the previously enabled area, external and internal disinfection measures will be applied.
  2. In case of presenting symptoms when being at home, contact the direct boss to report them and determine not to show up to work as a preventive measure of contagion.

saw. In the event that medical disability is granted, the respective documentation must be presented, such as medication prescriptions and the recommendations to be followed.

2.1. General protocol for heads of workers :

  1. The work managers must have a log of the disinfected means of transport, responsible and schedule. This will serve as a means of verifying the biosecurity of the means of transport and the driver prior to departure.
  2. In the event that any driver or worker presents or reports symptoms in which they are suspected as likely suffering from COVID-19, the following must be done:
  3. Isolate the worker, provide a mask and avoid contact with other surfaces and other people; Likewise, identify the people with whom the infected personnel had contact to close the epidemiological circle.
  4. Maintain active lines of communication and arrange for medical care to be provided.
  5. Once this procedure is finished, carry out disinfection of all possible contaminated objects or surfaces that may have been in contact with the symptomatic worker, including the means of transport.
  6. If the worker has been in close contact with family members and people who have been in the same place with a confirmed case of COVID-19, they should not report to work and call the corresponding competent authority (or rapid assistance line in the country) to request assistance.

and. Workers suspected or sick of COVID-19, who work in activities and tasks that require direct contact with people (transport of goods), must be subjected to isolation.

  1. The transportation company must have replacement personnel to cover personnel absences due to COVID-19, which may previously be identified and notified in the observations field of the Single Central American Declaration (DUCA-T), at the time of its generation. .
  2. TRAINING.
  3. All freight forwarding employees must be trained not only to know what COVID-19 is and what to do when COVID-19 infection is suspected, but also to promote and implement prevention measures.
  4. Land freight transport companies will be responsible for training their staff or any person they hire to carry out international freight transport. In this sense, they must carry out training programs on the risks to which workers are exposed in organizations, centers and workplaces, emphasizing prevention and biological control measures.
  5. Land freight transport companies must have logbooks of the training given, and it is suggested that this include the following: date, training topics, training duration, list of participants, evaluations, evaluation results , corrective measures.
  6. Land freight transport companies will be responsible for training their staff or any person they contract to carry out international freight transport, in at least the following topics:
  7. Information about COVID-19, in particular about the symptoms, the incubation period and the modes of transmission of the virus.
  8. Epidemiological information on countries, regions and affected areas.

iii. Information on prevention measures, including information on disinfectants and proper hand hygiene.

  1. Information on how to proceed in case of symptoms.
  2. Information on the routes enabled for cargo transport.

saw. Information on the measures that the Member States are implementing to deal with COVID-19, according to the established route.

vii. Information on the disinfection of means of transport.

viii. Information on the contingency plans of the transport company, for any eventuality related to COVID-19 according to the established routes.

  1. Other related.
  2. CLEANLINESS GUIDELINES FOR FREIGHT TRANSPORT MEANS.

4.1. Hygienization of means of cargo transport

It is mandatory to wash and clean the means of transport with disinfectant before and after each route, considering the following measures:

  1. Surfaces must be cleaned with solutions recommended by international organizations and proven effective against COVID-19.
  2. Each worker who performs the cleaning must have their own utensils and they must be disinfected before and after use; avoid sharing with the rest of the workers.

4.2 . External cleaning of the means of transport and van

Prior to loading, the driver of the means of transport must wash it with soap and water on the outside (wheels, doors, bodywork in general, van) and use a disinfectant solution (Review list of recommended disinfectants)

4.3. Internal cleaning and care of the cabin

The driver must clean with a disinfectant solution, the use of gloves and a mask is essential, disinfect:

  1. Gear lever
  2. Steering wheel
  3. Contact controls while driving
  4. Seating

and. seat controls

  1. Tachograph or speedometer (including all the instruments that manipulate the

driver)

  1. Llavines
  2. Door latches
  3. Doors

4.4. OTHERS.

  1. Ventilate cabin regularly during movement, keep windows closed during inspections or checkpoints.
  2. The cabin of the means of transport must be occupied only by the driver (International Transport) and/or transport staff (transport staff is limited to national transport).
  3. Cash can be cleaned with the disinfectant solution.
  4. In the case of using credit or debit cards, carry out the disinfection process in the same way as in the case of using cash.

and. If you require the use of ATMs, disinfect your hands immediately with antibacterial gel.

  1. It is recommended to perform cleaning every four hours or according to the exposure of the cabin.

4.4.1. Internal Cleaning of the Van

The Driver and/or transport personnel must clean the interior of the van and observe the following:

  1. The means of transport is in good clean conditions and has been disinfected.
  2. Eliminate residues from previous shipments (food, chemical compounds, etc.)
  3. The closure of doors, curtains and other openings with closing mechanisms.
  4. It is suggested to implement a simple handwashing system in the means of transport with disinfectant soap, for the exclusive use of the driver after he has to carry out procedures or records at checkpoints or others.

4.4.2 Waste management

  1. Each means of transport must always carry disposable bags to discard handkerchiefs and personal protective equipment, said bag must be removed on each trip that it makes, properly closed, depositing it later in the corresponding garbage cans, pedal-opening garbage cans are recommended.
  2. All disposable biosafety material (PPE, bags, etc.) or possible source of contagion (handkerchiefs, cleaning items, etc.) must be kept in a different deposit from the regular waste and must be closed with a double bag with a zip closure. bag to later deposit in the places designated for the disposal of biosafety material.
  3. BIOSECURITY GUIDELINES FOR THE LOADING, TRANSFER AND UNLOADING OF GOODS.
  4. To safeguard the integrity of the people involved in the loading and unloading process at the different points, it is recommended:
  5. That all personnel involved in the operations of the cargo transport company have the mandatory biosafety equipment (gloves, face shield or glasses, masks and alcohol disinfectant gel).
  6. Epidemiological surveillance at the loading and unloading point taking temperature and symptom control. If the driver presents any symptoms or a temperature greater than 37.5°C, as long as he is not exposed to sources of heat prior to taking the temperature, he will be sent to the nearest health center.

iii. Clean the means of transport on the outside (tires, wagon, doors, curtains and cabin) and inside (cabin and wagon), prior to loading.

  1. Carry out the loading and unloading in a mechanized way, after the use of said machinery it must be properly cleaned and disinfected.
  2. Close the doors/curtain of the car. At no time will the driver or transport personnel have contact with the merchandise/product, in cases where the transport is for the transfer of cargo, for those drivers or personnel who fulfill the functions of cargo personnel (such as distributors). they must handle the load observing the biosafety guidelines.

5.1. Before loading goods

The driver(s) and transportation personnel must:

  1. Verify that the means of transport is in good clean conditions and that it has been disinfected if necessary.
  2. Check that there are no residues from previous shipments left in the means of transport.
  3. Verify that there are no residues of chemical cleaning or disinfection compounds.
  4. Check that the closure of doors and other openings with locking mechanisms.

5.2. During loading of goods

The driver or pilot and transport personnel must:

  1. Verify that there are no breaks or deterioration in the packaging or products.
  2. Verify that the product is protected from dust, humidity or other types of dirt.
  3. Avoid contact with the floor and walls of the cargo area or the means of transport.
  4. Check that the means of transport does not include objects or substances other than those authorized in the documents issued by the shipper.

and. Prevent personnel other than cargo or animals from entering the means of transport.

  1. Verify that the load is accommodated in such a way as to reduce its exposure to the environment and with an appropriate location according to its temperature requirements.
  2. Carry out the disinfection process of the contact areas every four (4) hours.
  3. The loading procedure must be carried out in the shortest possible time.

5.3 During the transfer of goods

The driver or pilot and transport personnel must:

  1. Clean all frequently touched surfaces (doors, rudder, lever, dashboard, etc.) described in the instructions regarding internal cabin cleaning. It is recommended to carry out this measure at least every 4 hours or immediately when there is possible contact with another person outside the cabin other than the driver or transport personnel.
  2. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or with hand sanitizer gel (70% alcohol-based).
  3. Avoid touching your face. If necessary (eg cleaning sweat) wash hands prior to contact with the face and after it.
  4. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing with your elbow or with a disposable handkerchief that will be thrown away after use.

and. The driver or transport personnel must use the mask and gloves if they have to get off the means of transport.

  1. Before entering the means of transport again, shoes must be disinfected with a disinfectant solution and hands cleaned with alcohol in disinfectant gel.
  2. In transit in the means of transport it is not necessary to wear a mask if you drive alone in it.
  3. Feeding must be done in your means of transport, avoiding staying in places with crowds of people and ensuring hand hygiene with soap and water or hand disinfectant gel (70% alcohol-based). Eating with gloves on should be avoided.
  4. A maximum of two people is allowed in the cabin for the transport of national cargo, for international trips only the driver will be allowed.
  5. Maintain the recommended safety distance between people when making planned stops.

5.4. During unloading of goods

The driver or pilot and transport personnel must:

  1. At the unloading point prior to entering the facilities, clean the outside of the means of transport.
  2. Have the mandatory biosafety equipment applicable to all personnel involved, with emphasis on unloading and transportation personnel.
  3. At the loading and unloading point, guarantee epidemiological surveillance, taking temperature measurements and controlling symptoms.
  4. The driver will disinfect contact areas such as: hands, shoes, keys, padlocks, doors, curtains, etc. according to the protocol described above.

and. At the time of unloading the product, the driver must keep a minimum distance of 1.5 meters from the unloading personnel, the driver may not unload any product, except for those drivers who comply with the loading and unloading functions .

  1. If documents are required to be signed, the driver must use their own pencil or encourage the electronic exchange of these documents.
  2. Only the driver may close the curtains and/or doors of the means of transport.
  3. Companies must establish what measures to take in the event that the cargo or merchandise is rejected.

5.5. Recommendations in route planning.

  1. Land freight transport companies must identify workers with vulnerabilities and risk factors together with health services and evaluate those workers with certain health conditions, which are considered to be at risk for exposure to COVID-19, and establish the corresponding measures. of isolation.
  2. Routes must be planned to identify and define the places where stops will be made (for example: for rest, use of toilets, dining rooms or cafeterias), which comply with biosafety requirements. Trying to make as few stops as possible.
  3. In the rest periods according to the scheduled stops during the tour, restrict the intake of food (preferably bring your own) and sleep inside the means of transport in the compartment designed for that purpose or in the hotel assigned by the competent authority. All material that enters the transport medium cabin must be disinfected in a 70% pure alcohol solution.
  4. Plan with clients the loading/unloading of goods in the most precise way to avoid the accumulation of several carriers at the same time.

and. Establish alternative forms of merchandise delivery and receipt documents (delivery notes) by electronic means to avoid personal contact.

  1. Avoid cash as much as possible, it is advisable to manage the payment or per diem by electronic means.
  2. In the driver’s cabin it is recommended to keep a properly stocked first aid kit.
  3. Provide a fumigation pump for the disinfection of each means of transport (tires and wagon), without limiting the corresponding washing of the means.
  4. If it is necessary to handle documentation, use your own pen to sign documents.
  5. Provide a personal hygiene kit for each carrier, water, soap and hand sanitizer gel (70% alcohol-based), disposable tissues, etc.
  6. The transport company must provide the necessary PPE to its personnel (disposable gloves, glasses and mask).
  7. The individualized use of means of transporting loads is recommended, as well as utensils used for daily work.
  8. Every freight transport worker must avoid manipulating the merchandise that he transports. In situations where this activity is part of your duties or in situations where such manipulation is necessary, you must comply with the required protection and prevention measures, which includes at least washing and disinfecting your hands before and after the handling and use of adequate PPE (disposable gloves, glasses and mask). Additionally, aid must be guaranteed to avoid the handling of merchandise as much as possible (forklifts and other hauling equipment).
  9. DISINFECTION GUIDELINES FOR BUILDINGS AND MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION.

6.1. buildings and facilities

The surfaces of the buildings and other facilities of the land border posts must be cleaned frequently, in accordance with the International Protocols approved by the WHO and the Ministries of Health.

6.2. Transport.

  1. External disinfection of the means of transport is recommended before entering the border post, with solutions recommended by international organizations, verifying that the pilot or driver has biosafety personal protective equipment such as: 70% alcohol-based hand gel %, gloves, face masks or masks, face shield or glasses.
  2. In addition, the competent authority must verify that:
  3. The means of transport is in good clean conditions and has been disinfected.
  4. That there are no residues from previous shipments (food, chemical compounds, etc.)
  5. The closure of doors, curtains and other openings with closing mechanisms.
  6. It is suggested to implement simple hand washing systems in the means of transport, for the exclusive use of the driver after he has to carry out procedures or records at checkpoints or others.

Relevant information on occupational health and safety in Honduras

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Occupational health and safety is an issue that has become very relevant in companies today due to the Pandemic that the entire world is experiencing. Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), we have had to transform the way we work to prevent the spread and contagion of the virus. In terms of Occupational Health and Safety, the Government of the Republic of Honduras has issued different laws and protocols to prevent the spread and infection in the workplace.

On March 16, 2020, Executive Decree Number PCM-019-2020 was published in the Official Gazette, which approves the Hygiene and Safety Protocol for the Prevention of COVID-19 in work centers and states that it is mandatory. compliance by employers and workers at the national level. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Protocol by an employer will lead to an administrative sanction provided for in the Labor Inspection Law.

Decree PCM-019-2020 also establishes duties for workers, not only for employers. Workers have the duty to inform their employers if they have symptoms of the Coronavirus or any other similar symptom that compromises the respiratory tract prior to entering the workplace.

If symptoms appear in the worker, they are obliged to immediately carry out a laboratory test to check or rule out the spread of COVID-19. The result of this examination must be notified to the employer so that he can take the necessary measures in case the contagion is confirmed.

The Safety and Hygiene Protocol for Work Centers at the National Level in Prevention of COVID-19 establishes measures aimed at workers and employers for the prevention and control of COVID-19, these measures are the following:

  1. Handwashing with soap and water on a recurring basis, for these purposes, each employer must structure a guide for correct handwashing and its frequency, according to the economic activity of each company.
  2. The employer is obliged to provide its workers with prevention and hygiene supplies in the workplace, such as hand gel, antiseptic liquid soap, gloves, personal protective equipment and masks when appropriate and any other instructed by the safety authorities. Government.
  3. Frequently use gel that contains 70% alcohol or another disinfectant promoted by the Ministry of Health, before entering the facilities of your work center, as well as in your different areas or jobs.
  4. In the cases indicated by the Ministry of Health, by virtue of the type of work that is carried out and implies direct and permanent contact with people infected with COVID-19, they must use gloves, eye protection glasses, clothing and a mask, when removing the aforementioned equipment, internal contact must be avoided, manipulation of the same to avoid the passage of the virus from the hands to the eyes, nose or mouth.
  5. Masks are permanently and mandatory for workers who present symptoms of COVID-19 and people who have direct contact with them. Once discarded, they must be deposited in garbage containers in a safe way, with a lid that can be opened with a pedal.
  6. Avoid being in places with poor ventilation and with people who have any symptoms such as: sneezing, coughing and a temperature greater than 38 degrees.
  7. Maintain greater cleaning hygiene and the use of gel, soap and water in the toilets.
  8. Give talks to workers regarding the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
  9. Establish monitoring, control and follow-up mechanisms so that workers who present symptoms and/or are infected from the contracting companies that provide services to the companies, whether permanent or temporary, do not enter the workplace, and can be treated in a timely and as required by law.

The Ministry of Labor, together with the Ministry of Health, to date have issued twenty-seven Biosafety Protocols due to the COVID-19 Pandemic for Work Centers in different sectors of the economy. All protocols have general measures that are mandatory, regardless of the industry to which the establishment belongs. The general measures for all industries are as follows:

  1. Distancing or isolation of people:

Awareness about maintaining the recommended safety distances between people (between 1.5 and 2 meters).

  1. Respiratory etiquette rules.

They are a set of recommended measures to prevent respiratory transmission of biological agents. The measurements are:

– Cough and sneeze covering the nose and mouth with the inner angle of the flexed elbow (elbow fossa or cubital).

– Use disposable handkerchiefs or towels, and discard them after use.

– Deposit disposable tissues or towels in containers for this purpose, with pedal lids.

– Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes unnecessarily.

– Wash and disinfect your hands before and after touching your nose, mouth and eyes.

– Wash your hands frequently, especially when you have manipulated objects or had contact with surfaces.

– Talk while maintaining safety distances, especially when done with people with respiratory symptoms.

– Avoid coming into contact with suspicious people or with respiratory symptoms and signs.

– Avoid places or spaces with crowds of people.

– Inform and seek medical help if respiratory symptoms or signs appear or if you have been in direct contact with suspicious persons or with respiratory symptoms.

– Inform about the presence of suspicious people or people with respiratory symptoms, especially in workplaces and workplaces.

iii. Hand washing:

Training on the proper technique for hand washing.

In general, the technique established by the World Health Organization (WHO) is recommended. The minimum duration is one (1) minute:

– Wet hands with soap and water.

– Lather the palm, the back, between the fingers and the nails very well.

– Rinse the soap residue well and if necessary, repeat the process.

– Properly dry your hands with a paper towel.

Washing and disinfection must be frequent, while they carry out their work activity. The frequency must be established according to the type of activity.

Training on the appropriate products for washing and disinfecting hands (soap and water, alcohol with glycerin, alcohol gel).

These products must be supplied by the responsible person or the employer. Centers and workstations must have handwashing facilities that have soap and water, alcohol gel or glycerin dispensers.

Hand washing will be mandatory, before putting on the PPE and after removing it. When hands are visibly clean, hand hygiene will be done with alcohol-based products; if they are dirty or stained, it will be done with water and antiseptic soap. The use of gloves never exempts from carrying out a correct washing of the hands after their removal. Nails should be short and well groomed.

Washing or disinfecting your hands should be a necessary measure in the following situations:

– After coughing or sneezing.

– Before and after touching or blowing your nose.

– Before and after using any means of transport, especially if it is collective or public.

– Before and after visiting public places.

– Before and after handling objects, solid or liquid waste, money.

– Before and after touching animals or people.

– Before and after eating.

– Before and after using the toilets.

– Before and after completion of the work.

– During the performance of the work, the frequency will depend on the workplace and the type of activities and tasks that are carried out. It will be defined in each organization or work center.

  1. Cleaning and disinfection of objects and surfaces.

The procedure for cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces related to the worker will be carried out in accordance with the usual way of cleaning and disinfecting the workplace. Ensuring that the frequency is related to their use.

After cleaning and disinfection, they must be free of moisture. For cleaning and disinfection, towels with disinfectant, soap and water or the detergents and disinfectants that are usually authorized for this purpose (with a virucidal effect) can be used, and disposable textile material will be used for the surfaces. General cleaning will always be done wet, from the cleanest areas to the dirtiest, from the inside out.

The following measures should also be considered:

  • The use of brooms in high-risk areas should be avoided as much as possible.
  • Double cube techniques will be used.
  • The material used that is disposable, will be placed in a waste container with a lid and labeled with the precise warnings. Surfaces must be cleaned with solutions recommended by international organizations and proven effective against Sars-CoV-2. Among the recommendations are:
  • For personal items (screens, phones, tablets)
    • Use at least 70% alcohol solution, spray and air dry or wipe with a cloth and air dry.
  • For work surfaces, floors, walls, doors, desks and other surfaces:
    • Use a household bleach solution (5%) diluted as follows: Four teaspoons of bleach per liter of water, spray or rub in and leave for at least 10 minutes.
    • Use quaternary ammonium at 5% dilution, follow the instructions of each supplier for its dilution in case it is more concentrated. Wait at least 10 minutes for it to act.
    • Use commercial use hydrogen peroxide at 3% and let it act for at least 5 minutes.
  • For any product used to clean surfaces and disinfect SARS CoV-2, the indications for use should be consulted, since the concentration of the active components may vary from industrial to domestic presentation and from brand to brand.
  1. Handling and use of Personal Protection Equipment.

Training on the use and handling (putting on and taking off) of PPE. Single-use or disposable PPE must be disposed of under established standards to avoid cross-contamination of other sites, objects, products, or surfaces.

saw. Health and safety system operation:

In the organizations or work centers where the Joint Hygiene and Safety Commission is formed and in operation, it must play a fundamental role during the implementation of the measures for SARS CoV-2. It is essential that a surveillance and control system be established on compliance with and compliance with all the measures, guidelines, standards, orientations and others that are available within the organization or work center. Organizations or work centers that have health care services must take extreme measures to detect suspects and patients. Health personnel must be duly trained to approach people suspected or sick by SARS CoV-2 according to the protocols and standards established in the country and failing that,

vii. Health or epidemiological surveillance:

If the organization or work center has a surveillance program or plan, it must consider the necessary measures to adapt it to the regulations and guidelines that guarantee constant communication with the responsible authorities and institutions. If the organization or workplace does not have surveillance strategies, constant communication with the responsible authorities and institutions must be guaranteed. In any case, the organization or work center must maintain a direct communication mechanism for immediate notification of suspected cases.

On May 23, 2020, the National Congress approved the Law on the Mandatory Use of Masks and Application of Biosafety Protocols. The Law establishes the mandatory use of masks or mouth covers (whether homemade, artisanal or industrial that covers the nose and mouth) for all people, without exception, who wander the streets throughout the national territory or who attend public or private places with more than five people in the same space.

The sanction for not wearing the mask or mouth cover is the application of a fine of Two Hundred Lempiras (L. 200.00) or the obligation to carry out community work for six hours, in case of being a repeat offender, they will be detained for twelve hours.

Biosafety Protocols

The Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Security were authorized to temporarily cancel the operation of any establishment for not applying the Biosafety Protocols. The reopening will be done once it is authorized by the Secretary of Labor or the Secretary of Security, having corrected the infractions that gave rise to the closure. The Law is valid until the end of the Coronavirus Pandemic.

The person responsible for complying with biosafety protocols in companies is the Joint Hygiene and Safety Commission. Any company with more than ten employees is required to set up a Mixed Hygiene and Safety Commission. We recommend that you verify that the Commission is constituted in your company and that it is in force, otherwise, you must request the constitution in the Secretary of Labor when restarting work.

The Biosafety Protocols approved to date are those of the following industries:

  • Government Offices and Customer Service Centers
  • Maquila Sector
  • Hardware Industry
  • Automotive Maintenance Workshops for Supply Chain
  • Restaurant and Cafeteria Industry
  • Construction Sector
  • Supermarket Industry
  • Meat Sector (Beef and Pork)
  • Sugar Industry
  • Financial sector
  • Poultry Sector
  • Household Items Wholesalers
  • Soft Drinks and Beverages Sector
  • Insurance Sector
  • Patisseries and Bakeries
  • Agricultural sector
  • Tobacco Sector
  • Supply Chain
  • Call Centers
  • Squares and Shopping Centers
  • Petroleum Products Distributors
  • Hairdressers and Barbers
  • Religious Practices and Activities
  • Dairy Sector
  • Pharmacy Industry
  • Forest Sector
  • Telecommunications Companies

If you wish to download the specific Biosafety Protocol for your industry, go to the following link: http://www.trabajo.gob.hn/protocolos-de-bioseguro-en-los-centros-de-trabajo/