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Workplaces Prepare For Swine Flu Outbreak


WJACTV.com Special Section: All About Swine Flu

While school districts and community officials have been working to make sure they're ready for a potential swine flu outbreak, a conference Tuesday in Johnstown helped businesses make sure they know how to handle it.

About 100 business attended the seminar by Johnstown Area Regional Industries, which provides tools and strategies to keep employees safe and healthy.

JARI President Linda Thomson said local businesses have not seen any widespread problems with the flu, but if it does strike, they encourage each company to develop a policy.

"If they get sick, they're to stay home. If they're taking care of someone who's sick, they may still need to stay home. Employers are encouraged to allow telecommuting more if possible," Thomson said.

Safety officials from North American Hoganus who attended the seminar said they have been working hard to make sure their employees are prepared.

"We just did some awareness training for our employees. We showed a video on some different flu prevention techniques and how to protect yourselves," said Dave Johnson, safety manager.

Like other business representatives, Johnson was checking out the latest products like multi-disinfectant cleaners and masks. People at the seminar also obtained information on cyber security, crisis management and how to plan for emergencies.

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