Manage HR Magazine | Wednesday, December 29, 2021
Wipe down a surface in one direction only; going back over it in the opposite direction will deposit germs that were previously cleaned. Wipe down all frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, workstations, and doorknobs, on a regular basis.
Fremont, CA: The continued spread of the flu and a new coronavirus (COVID-19) emphasize the importance of clean and healthy workplaces. Fortunately, cleaning and then disinfecting a surface reduces the likelihood of infection spreading significantly.
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Key tips on disinfecting an office:
Using a One-Way Wipe Down
Wipe down a surface in one direction only; going back over it in the opposite direction will deposit germs that were previously cleaned. Wipe down all frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, workstations, and doorknobs, on a regular basis.
Practice Color-Coded Cleaning
Color code cloths for specific spaces to prevent janitorial and custodial staff from cross-contaminating — one should not mix up kitchen and bathroom cloths.
Heavily Promote Handwashing
Display handwashing and drying signs throughout the office, from the kitchen to the restroom, to remind employees to clean their hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60 to 95 percent alcohol or with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Because germs spread with moisture, one should thoroughly dry one's hands.
What Chemicals Can Do
Common household disinfectants tout their ability to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria and viruses, including human coronavirus, E.coli, flu strains, and salmonella, among others, on the label. Will they, however, be effective against COVID-19? According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, these disinfectants are "thought" to be effective against the new coronavirus strain, but this is not scientifically proven till the tests confirm it.
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