As more people return to their jobs, it is important to provide a work area that is clean and hygienic. While there are many products and practices you can use, establish a basic routine that involves everyone to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
Commercial Cleaning
You can hire a professional commercial cleaning crew to prepare the workplace and do daily sanitizing. Dusting and cleaning the company’s ceilings, walls, floors, and fixtures is a good starting point. You may also want to have the ventilation system and ductwork cleaned and sanitized as well.
The commercial cleaners are trained in how to remove dirt, dust, and debris as well as bacteria and viral germs from your office surfaces. These may include desks, chairs, file cabinets, coat racks, wall art, drinking fountains, and conference tables along with computers, printers, and copiers. Shared areas of your office can be addressed to remove contaminants and instill safeguards to protect employees and visitors.
Clear Unnecessary Clutter
Organize the office space to store supplies in cupboards or shelves where they are out of the employees’ way and will not be exposed to everyone’s germs. Keep trash bins and recycling containers available for employees to help manage their work areas and keep them free of litter or discarded items. Remove or effectively contain hazardous substances to avoid accidental contamination as well as unnecessary frequent handling, or move them around as various workspaces are needed.
Establish Safety Protocols
Handwashing and sanitizing, mask-wearing, and social distancing may be useful policies to implement at your company, depending on the number of employees and the proximity of their work stations. In general, handwashing should be recommended after eating, using the restroom, and handling hazardous items or items that come in frequent contact with other people.
New policies should be distributed and posted where all employees can quickly become familiar with them. A safety officer or resource person should be designated to answer questions and offer advice as needed.
Update Cleaning Procedures as Needed
If more employees than usual become ill or if symptoms are reported in the office, the current cleaning and sanitizing procedures may need to be updated from recommended to required. Enhanced or more frequent cleaning practices might be needed. Check industry standards and state or regional requirements to ensure your office is in compliance for protecting employees and visitors.
Be proactive in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sanitation at your company. Your employees depend on you to keep them safe.
