How to Ride an Elevator During the Coronavirus Pandemic

As countries reopen and people return to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, people may have to ride elevators in their office buildings and apartments. Avoid elevator use when possible, and if you can't take the stairs, stay at least 2 metres (6.6 ft) from other people in the elevator. [1] [2]

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Choosing Where and When to Go

  1. If you can, use the stairs or escalators instead of riding the elevator. That way, you can get exposure to open air rather than having to share a space with other individuals.
    • Outdoor or well-ventilated stairs and escalators are your best choice. Fresh air disperses the virus faster.
    • When fewer people use the elevator, the elevator becomes safer for disabled people who need to use it. By taking the stairs, you're helping others.
  2. During the coronavirus pandemic, it is important to avoid the three C's: c losed-in spaces, c rowded places, and c lose-contact settings. [3] Many outbreaks occur where these three C's intersect, including in crowded elevators. It is better to wait for the next lift than to risk infection from other passengers.
    • Similarly, avoid the three C's when waiting for the lift. Maintain a distance of 2 metres (6.6 ft) from other occupants in the building. [4] Wait outside or near open windows if possible, and keep away from crowded spaces in the elevator lobby.
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  3. Taking turns may help reduce your exposure. Try letting people from one household finish before you take your turn.
    • If you need to share with someone else not from your household, stand away from them.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Reducing Exposure Inside an Elevator

  1. Some viruses and bacteria can spread through direct contact with buttons. If possible, use another part of your body, such as your elbow or legs, to press the button:
    • Use your elbow
    • Cover your hand with a tissue, sleeve, or cloth before pressing
    • Use your leg if the button is low enough
  2. Even if you do not show symptoms, you could still be a carrier for respiratory infections like the coronavirus. Wearing a mask reduces the chances of transmission from one person to another.
  3. If you touch an infected surface, then touching to your face afterwards (especially near your eyes, nose, or mouth) could result in getting sick. Try to be mindful of where you're putting your hands.
  4. This disease travels through the air, often in tiny droplets produced by people talking. Try not to talk to other people, in person or on the phone, until you've exited the elevator.
    • Even after you walk out, your droplets may remain a little while. Thus, it's usually better to be silent for a minute, even if no one else is around right now.
  5. Give priority to seniors and physically disabled persons before using the elevator.
    • Grab handrails if you lose your balance. You can always wash or sanitize your hands immediately afterwards.
  6. Even if you did not touch any buttons, it may still be a good idea to clean your hands. That way, anything you did accidentally touch will likely not pose a threat to your health and safety.
    • Consider doing this after using the stairs or escalators as well.
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      Tips

      • Be especially careful if you live in the US. While many European countries see the pandemic slowing down in summer, the epidemic's severity in the US is far worse, with high infection rates continuing. [5] [6]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.marketplace.org/2020/06/19/stop-talking-and-face-the-corner-the-new-rules-of-elevators-during-covid-19/
      2. ↑ https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2020/06/22/is-elevator-safe-coronavirus
      3. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/how-japan-tackled-coronavirus-without-a-lockdown-2020-5
      4. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html
      5. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2020/06/22/united-states-europe-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic-comparison-sanjay-gupta-ldn-vpx.cnn
      6. ↑ https://www.axios.com/michael-osterholm-coronavirus-spread-da28f4a3-baad-4566-9340-9de480f5f3e7.html

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