Introduction:

We propose the construction of a numerical index of nonpharmacological preventive measures against SARS-CoV-2 based on the experience of Parc de Salut Mar (PSMar), a healthcare institution in Barcelona.

Method:

The construction of the index was carried out in three phases. First, we identified and selected the variables to be included based on semi-structured interviews with key informants and a review of relevant documents. Second, we defined the dimensions (consisting of one or more variables) and, as a final step, operationalised the index based on these dimensions. The index was then applied to generate estimates for the PSMar, and in its two main centres, the Hospital del Mar and the Hospital de la Esperanza.

Results:

Twenty-one variables were identified and categorised into five dimensions: personal protective equipment, individual organisational measures, collective organisational measures, epidemiological surveillance measures, and training activities. We also developed an action protocol. During the first SARS-CoV-2 wave, the index at the Hospital del Mar remained above that estimated for the Hospital de la Esperanza, whereas in the second wave both indices showed similar values until week 36, when the Hospital del Mar index began to show higher values. These oscillations were mainly due to the dimensions of personal protective equipment and training activities.

Conclusions:

The proposed index identified the difficulties in implementing the various non-pharmacological preventive measures during the first weeks of the pandemic. This tool can be useful for evaluating the activities carried out by the occupational risk prevention services during the pandemic, followed by appropriate adaptations to the realities of each individual company.

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