Do you know that office worker’s hands touch some 10 million bacteria every single day? Workplace common areas are the most likely place that employees and tenants pass around germs. If these surfaces are not cleaned and disinfected properly, these commonly used surfaces could be harboring cold and flu viruses. With the addition of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to make sure that high touch surfaces are getting the disinfecting they need.
Is Your Cleaning Routine Enough?
We know that you probably already have a cleaning routine in place. Over the past year or so most of us have learned more about cleaning than we ever thought we’d need to know. Even with that increased understanding and knowledge, it’s still easy to overlook certain spots that might not come to mind as high touch surfaces. Let’s take a look at some of the places bacteria and germs could be hiding so you can address these areas now:
- Copy Machines and Printers – These office workhorses are often overlooked, but with multiple drawers and buttons that are touched by numerous staff throughout the day, they should be wiped down daily. Be sure to clean the boards, buttons, handles, and any other surfaces that employees might frequently touch.
- Coffee Maker – Do you have a community coffee maker? The handle of the machine probably sees a lot of contact throughout the day. This kitchen appliance, as well as any other appliances in common areas, need wiped down daily to reduce the transfer of bacteria and germs from one person to another.
- Water Cooler – While we’re on the subject of drinks, after you’re done with the coffee maker, stop by and wipe down the water cooler too. Even though these are used daily by most people in the building, they are often overlooked because they are often situated in hallways or corners for easy access instead of the kitchen.
- Door Handles and Keypads – When you think of germ covered door handles you probably think of the bathroom. The reality is that all door handles, including those with fingerprint scanners or keypads, get as much contact as the bathroom door handle. Some of them probably even receive more contact, especially from visitors and delivery people. When cleaning these areas, don’t forget storage cabinets and doors, closets, and rooms that might see as much traffic like conference rooms, recreational areas, and laundry facilities.
- Laundry and Fitness Facilities – These areas see a lot of traffic every single day. While you may think of keeping the carpet and windows clean, so you are giving a good first impression, these areas are hotspots for germs. Be sure to wipe down all high touch surfaces including equipment, appliances, furniture, doorknobs, light switches, and more.
- Windowsills and Blinds – Be sure your cleaning staff or commercial cleaning service wipes down the blinds and windowsills too. These areas are likely touched and handled more than you realize.
- Hallways and Stairways – Dust and debris tend to accumulate in these areas, which also make them a breeding ground for germs. Think of how many people pass through these areas using handrails and door handles. Be sure they are wiped down daily.
- Shared Furniture – Do you have common areas such as waiting areas, break rooms, or a lobby? These areas often have shared furniture and upholstery can harbor not just germs but odors too. Be sure it is vacuumed and possibly steam cleaned. Hard surfaces should be wiped down daily with disinfectant.
- Workstations and Desks – Research shows that the average work desk harbors 400 times the bacteria of a toilet seat. Ask employees to do their part to keep these areas clean by having them disinfect their area daily. Be sure to discuss your expectations regarding these areas with your professional cleaning service as well.
Does keeping your property clean and disinfected seem a bit overwhelming? If so, a professional disinfecting service can help you get the job done without wasting your own manpower. At Fresh Focus we offer general wipe down disinfecting services as well as proactive and reactive COVID-19 disinfecting services. Learn more about all of our services and request a free quote today!
