"

Is It Safe to Buy Things from Amazon During the Coronavirus Outbreak?

" "

With the ongoing pandemic, many have raised concerns about the safety of purchasing items online, particularly from major retailers like Amazon. In this article, we explore the measures Amazon has taken to ensure the safety of its products and its customers during the coronavirus outbreak. We'll also discuss the general risks and safety tips to follow.

" "

Amazon's Response to the Coronavirus Outbreak

" "

Amazon, like many other major retailers, has implemented a series of safety measures to protect its customers. These measures include:

" " " "Reducing Services to Essentials: Initially, Amazon reduced its shipping services to only essential items, which significantly reduced the risk of spreading the virus. " "Keeping Distances and Avoiding Direct Contact: Amazon couriers maintain a safe distance from customers and use no-contact delivery methods. This includes knocking on doors to indicate the delivery is there, walking away, and sending a notification. " "Mandatory PPE for Couriers: The couriers are required to wear masks at all times, further reducing the risk of virus transmission. " "Increased Hygiene Measures: Amazon has implemented additional hygiene measures to ensure the safety of its products and customers. This includes disinfecting packages and providing sanitizers at distribution centers. " "Handling and Quarantine Recommendations: Customers are advised to quarantine received items for at least three days, especially the cardboard packaging, which can be disposed of more easily. " " " "

Comparing Amazon to Other Retailers

" "

When comparing Amazon to other retailers, it's clear that Amazon's measures are often more robust. A closer look at Royal Mail, for instance, reveals that they go through more hands and touch more surfaces compared to Amazon deliveries. In many cases, Royal Mail items can be handled by multiple people from the post office to the delivery point.

" "

In a comparison with physical stores like Target, where customers come into direct contact with products and potential surfaces, online shopping from Amazon becomes a safer alternative. The curbside pickup option also reduces exposure to other shoppers and potential surfaces in the store.

" "

Personal Views and Safety Measures

" "

While these measures are in place, it's important to note that some individuals, like the author, take additional precautions. These include:

" " " "Hand Washing: Washing hands thoroughly after handling deliveries is a key recommendation. " "Quarantine Periods: Quarantining goods for at least three days before use, and cardboard packaging for one day, is a common practice. " " " "

However, it's important to remember that the risk of infection from packages or online shopping is relatively low compared to other daily activities. Even beyond the pandemic, touching door handles or other surfaces in public spaces remains a risk.

" "

Conclusion

" "

In summary, Amazon has implemented comprehensive safety measures to protect its customers during the coronavirus outbreak. While there is always a risk associated with any form of delivery or online shopping, the measures taken by Amazon make it a safer option compared to other retail methods.

" "

For those who still have concerns, it's recommended to follow the guidelines provided by Amazon and consider additional personal safety measures if necessary.