Commercial Cleaning During Flu Season: Tips and Strategies

As the flu season approaches, maintaining a clean and hygienic workspace becomes crucial for the health and well-being of your employees and customers. The flu virus can spread rapidly in a commercial environment, leading to increased absenteeism and decreased productivity. In this blog, we’ll explore some essential tips and strategies for effective commercial cleaning during flu season.

Develop a Cleaning Schedule

Creating a well-structured cleaning schedule is the foundation of effective flu season preparedness. Ensure that all high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, and shared equipment are cleaned and disinfected frequently. Assign specific staff members or hire professional cleaning services to carry out these tasks on a regular basis.

Use Appropriate Cleaning Products

Not all cleaning products are created equal, especially when it comes to combating the flu virus. Make sure to use EPA-approved disinfectants that are effective against influenza. These products should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure their maximum effectiveness.

Educate Your Cleaning Staff

Proper training is essential for your cleaning staff to understand the importance of their role during flu season. Train them on the correct usage of cleaning products, the significance of hand hygiene, and the importance of maintaining personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and masks. Ensure they are aware of the specific areas that require extra attention during flu season.

Promote Hand Hygiene

Encourage everyone in your commercial space to practice good hand hygiene. Provide hand sanitizers at entrances, exits, and common areas. Post signage reminding employees and customers to wash their hands frequently for at least 20 seconds. Stock up on soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizers to avoid shortages.

Implement Social Distancing Measures

While cleaning plays a significant role in flu prevention, social distancing measures are equally important. Rearrange workstations and communal areas to facilitate physical distancing. Limit the number of people in shared spaces, and consider allowing remote work when possible to reduce the risk of virus transmission.

Enhance Ventilation

Proper ventilation can help reduce the concentration of airborne viruses. Ensure your HVAC system is well-maintained, and consider upgrading filters to those with higher MERV ratings. Open windows when possible to increase natural ventilation.

Focus on Restrooms

Restrooms are a hotspot for germ transmission. Regularly clean and disinfect restroom surfaces, including sinks, faucets, toilet handles, and door handles. Ensure that soap dispensers are always filled, and provide touchless options if available.

Stock Up on Cleaning Supplies

During flu season, demand for cleaning supplies tends to increase. Be proactive by stocking up on essential cleaning products, PPE, and other necessary items well in advance. This prevents potential shortages that could disrupt your cleaning routine.

Monitor and Adjust

Regularly monitor the flu situation in your area and adjust your cleaning protocols accordingly. If an outbreak occurs among your employees, consider a deep cleaning and disinfection of the entire workspace to prevent further spread.

Commercial cleaning during flu season is a critical aspect of maintaining a healthy and safe environment for your employees and customers. By following these tips and strategies, you can reduce the risk of flu transmission and create a workspace that promotes well-being and productivity even during the flu season. Remember that prevention is key, and a clean workspace is a fundamental step in that direction.