As of writing this, we’re still in the thick of the Novel Coronavirus pandemic. Most of us are working from home, if we’re able to work at all. However, for all of the essential workers out there, there’s a lot of anxiety each day heading into work.
While we can’t take your negative feelings away, we can give you some peace of mind with tips on how to sanitize and disinfect your workplace and workspace during this uncertain time.
If There Was Contamination in the Office
Hiring a crew with expertise in sanitization is one option, but if you’re looking to do it yourself, the CDC has released guidelines on best practices:
- Immediately after exposure occurs, close off all areas used by the person who is ill and wait an additional 24 hours (or more!) to begin cleaning. Opening doors and windows will help improve air circulation in these areas as well.
- Clear any obvious dirt and debris then disinfect using a diluted mix of bleach, an alcohol solution with at least 70% alcohol, or household cleaning products approved for Covid-19. For a more detailed list of products, visit the CDC, and always follow the directions on the package.
- Protective gear such as masks and gloves need to be worn, and hands must be washed immediately following removal of items.
Preventative Measures Within the Workplace
More than likely, your office has not been contaminated, but you’d also like to keep it that way. While some of these may seem like common sense, it can be difficult to step out of our routines and remember not to touch our faces etc.. Here are some broad actions you can take within your workplace to minimize risk of transmission:
- Open or prop-open all possible interior doors to eliminate touching
- Provide no-touch trash cans or remove their lids, unless it creates an unsanitary environment
- Frequently clean and disinfect all touch points
- Provide limited entry/exit points to eliminate contamination
- Provide disposable wipes to sanitize keyboards, desks, equipment, doorknobs, etc..
- Use EPA approved products to disinfect surfaces
- Prohibit sharing of areas/items amongst workers
- Instruct employees to keep their workspaces clean and to wipe down items at the beginning and end of the day
We know how scary and uncertain things are right now, especially if you’re an essential worker. Please let Housekeeping Associates know if you have any questions regarding best sanitization practices for your workplace!
