Seasonal viruses, such as the flu, present significant challenges for facilities every year. For facility managers, protecting tenants, employees, and visitors from these threats requires a proactive approach. Adapting your commercial cleaning practices is a vital step in minimizing the spread of illness and maintaining a healthy environment. March is an ideal time to focus on these practices, as flu season often lingers well into the spring. Here are expert strategies to help you combat seasonal viruses effectively.
1. Prioritize High-Touch Surfaces
High-touch surfaces are prime areas for germs to accumulate and spread. These include doorknobs, elevator buttons, handrails, light switches, and shared office equipment like keyboards and phones.
Tips for Effective Cleaning:
- Increase Cleaning Frequency: Schedule additional cleanings for high-traffic areas and shared spaces.
- Use Effective Disinfectants: Choose EPA-approved disinfectants that are proven to kill viruses, including the flu.
- Focus on Technique: Train cleaning staff to follow proper dwell times, ensuring disinfectants remain on surfaces long enough to be effective.
Why It Matters:
Addressing high-touch surfaces reduces the risk of virus transmission, creating a safer environment for everyone in the building.
2. Improve Indoor Air Quality
Airborne viruses can linger in poorly ventilated spaces, increasing the risk of infection. Improving indoor air quality is a critical component of combating seasonal illnesses.
Strategies to Enhance Air Quality:
- Upgrade HVAC Filters: Use high-efficiency filters, such as HEPA, to capture airborne particles.
- Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance: Preventative maintenance for commercial buildings ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently and effectively.
- Install Air Purifiers: Consider adding portable air purifiers in high-traffic areas or spaces with poor ventilation.
Benefits:
Clean air reduces the spread of airborne viruses and promotes overall wellness, leading to fewer sick days and higher productivity.
3. Implement Hand Hygiene Programs
Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Encourage tenants and employees to practice good hand hygiene by making it convenient and accessible.
Key Components of a Hand Hygiene Program:
- Install Touchless Dispensers: Provide hands-free soap and hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the facility.
- Stock High-Quality Supplies: Use products that are gentle on the skin to encourage frequent use.
- Educate Occupants: Share reminders about proper handwashing techniques and the importance of hygiene.
Impact:
Promoting hand hygiene creates a first line of defense against seasonal viruses, reducing the likelihood of outbreaks.
4. Customize Cleaning Schedules for Offices
A one-size-fits-all approach to cleaning is no longer sufficient, especially during flu season. Tailored cleaning schedules ensure that specific needs are met, minimizing health risks.
How to Customize Schedules:
- Identify Problem Areas: Assess high-traffic zones, shared spaces, and areas where germs are likely to accumulate.
- Adjust Cleaning Frequency: Increase the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting based on usage patterns.
- Incorporate Special Services: Include deep cleaning and sanitation as part of your routine during peak flu season.
Advantages:
Customized cleaning schedules align with your facility’s unique requirements, ensuring resources are used effectively to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
5. Leverage Professional Janitorial Services
Professional cleaning companies bring expertise, equipment, and advanced methods to the table, making them a valuable partner in combating seasonal viruses.
Benefits of Professional Services:
- Trained Staff: Professionals are skilled in using the latest cleaning techniques and tools.
- Access to Advanced Equipment: Commercial-grade equipment, such as electrostatic sprayers, provides thorough disinfection.
- Consistency: Professional teams ensure that cleaning standards are maintained consistently across your facility.
How to Choose the Right Partner:
Look for a provider with experience in office cleaning services, a strong reputation, and the ability to create customized plans for your facility.
6. Emphasize Disinfection Protocols
Standard cleaning is not enough to eliminate viruses. Comprehensive disinfection protocols are necessary to address the unique challenges of flu season.
Key Elements of Disinfection:
- Target High-Risk Areas: Focus on restrooms, kitchens, breakrooms, and shared equipment.
- Follow CDC Guidelines: Adhere to recommended cleaning practices and use approved disinfectants.
- Document Procedures: Maintain records of cleaning and disinfection activities to ensure accountability.
Outcome:
Enhanced disinfection protocols reduce the presence of harmful pathogens, protecting the health of everyone in the building.
7. Foster Collaboration with Occupants
Creating a healthier facility requires teamwork. Engage tenants and employees in maintaining cleanliness and reducing the spread of germs.
Tips for Collaboration:
- Encourage Cleaning Personal Workspaces: Provide disinfecting wipes for desks and shared office equipment.
- Promote Sick Day Policies: Discourage employees from coming to work when they’re unwell.
- Share Updates: Communicate cleaning schedules and protocols to occupants, building trust and confidence.
Benefits:
A collaborative approach ensures that everyone plays a role in maintaining a safe and healthy environment.
8. Track Cleaning Effectiveness
Measuring the effectiveness of your cleaning efforts helps identify areas for improvement and ensures your practices are achieving the desired results.
Methods to Track Effectiveness:
- ATP Testing: Measure surface cleanliness with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) testing devices.
- Occupant Feedback: Collect feedback from tenants and employees about cleanliness levels.
- Inspection Reports: Conduct regular inspections to verify that cleaning standards are met.
Advantages:
Tracking results provides valuable insights into the success of your cleaning program, allowing you to make data-driven decisions.
9. Plan for Long-Term Maintenance
While seasonal viruses require immediate attention, long-term maintenance strategies ensure your facility remains prepared year-round.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Preventative Maintenance for Commercial Buildings: Regular upkeep of HVAC systems, plumbing, and other infrastructure supports a healthier environment.
- Ongoing Training: Ensure cleaning staff stay updated on best practices and emerging trends.
- Evaluate Contracts: Periodically review service agreements with cleaning providers to ensure they meet your needs.
Why It Matters:
A proactive approach to maintenance reduces unexpected issues, keeps costs under control, and ensures a consistently clean facility.
Why Adapting Cleaning Practices Matters
Seasonal viruses pose risks not only to health but also to productivity and tenant satisfaction. By adapting your cleaning practices to address these challenges, you can:
- Reduce Absenteeism: A cleaner environment leads to fewer illnesses and missed workdays.
- Enhance Employee Productivity: Healthy employees are more focused and efficient.
- Boost Tenant Confidence: Tenants appreciate visible efforts to maintain a safe and clean building.
Take the First Step
Adapting your commercial cleaning practices to combat seasonal viruses is an investment in the health and success of your facility. From customized cleaning schedules to advanced disinfection techniques, the strategies outlined here can make a significant impact.
Take the first step towards a more efficient and productive facility.
