Heading back to the office? Make sure you know how to keep yourself and your staff safe from a pandemic! The novel coronavirus, the flu, and other viral diseases can spread through the office like wildfire. More than 40% of employees on one floor in a Seoul call center got the novel coronavirus in March 2020.
The risk is just as high in the U.S. Office work makes it difficult to maintain social distancing. This may increase the odds of catching the flu and other contagious illnesses. Professional office cleaning services can reduce these risks and improve a company’s bottom line. The products used by commercial cleaning agencies are much safer and more effective than those found in a typical store.
Moreover, professional cleaners receive extensive training on how to operate special equipment. They will not only clean the windows and mop the floors but also sanitize every corner of your office. Still not convinced? Here’s what you should know about the benefits of professional office cleaning during a pandemic and why it matters for your business!
Contents
Pandemics and the Workplace
The novel coronavirus poses a number of challenges for the traditional workplace. Companies worldwide are gradually switching to remote work in an attempt to prevent infections. Social distancing has become the norm. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to maintain a safe distance at work.
On top of that, older employees and those with chronic diseases are more likely to get sick during a pandemic. If someone in your team has a weak immune system or diabetes, he’s more likely to catch the flu or other contagious illness. John Hopkins warns that people with chronic airway and lung diseases have an increased risk of complications from the novel coronavirus. The same goes for those with poorly controlled blood sugar.
But COVID-19 isn’t the only issue you should worry about. Other contagious diseases can be just as dangerous as the new coronavirus. The 2009 influenza pandemic, for instance, has caused 100,000 to 400,000 deaths worldwide in the first year. Office workers are exposed to bacteria, viruses, and other germs on a daily basis. These biological agents can lead to allergic reactions, infections, poisoning, asthma, or even cancer. They can enter the body via different routines and cause extensive damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other internal organs.
As an employer, it’s your responsibility to keep your staff safe. Preventive measures, such as hiring professional cleaners, can go a long way toward employee health.
Create a Safer, Healthier Workplace
About 10% of American employees are exposed to disease or infection at least weekly, says the University of Washington. More than 18% are exposed to these risks at least monthly. Regular cleaning and sanitation are crucial for creating a safer workplace.
As discussed earlier, the SARS-CoV-2 virus is just one of the many pathogens that can affect employee health. Workers may also come in contact with the flu virus, norovirus, E.Coli, and more. The norovirus, for example, can spread in semi-closed environments, such as offices and restaurants. Healthcare workers may be exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A black mold infestation may cause life-threatening illnesses, too.
Conventional cleaning products are not always effective against these pathogens. Moreover, your janitor may or may not have the expertise needed to properly remove all harmful contaminants. This kind of work requires special equipment. By using professional office cleaning services, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that every corner of your workspace is taken care of. Companies that offer these services have access to state-of-art equipment and quality products. Plus, their employees receive specialized training.
Limit Exposure to Harsh Chemicals
The chemicals in traditional cleaning formulas can trigger or worsen allergies. In the long run, they may affect lung function and cause respiratory problems. Some are extremely toxic to human health. All-purpose cleaners, for instance, contain ammonia, trisodium phosphate, and other harsh chemicals. These substances can irritate the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract. Prolonged or regular exposure increases the risks.
Professional office cleaning services use green products that are safer for your staff. The experts at ProCleanings Company utilize EPA-registered cleaning agents and disinfectants to eliminate viruses and other pathogens. Our products are environmentally friendly and meet the highest safety standards. Bioesque Botanical Disinfectant, for example, kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and molds. It’s also effective against 99.9% of all allergens. The primary ingredient is thymol, an active compound in thyme oil. Clinical evidence confirms its antimicrobial properties. Dentists use this compound to treat gum and tooth infections.
Improve Air Quality in Your Office Building
Professional office cleaning services not only help eliminate pathogens but may also improve air quality. Your employees can inhale the viruses and bacteria that circulate through office ventilation systems. Poorly circulated air may further increase the spread of microbes. While it’s true that you can open the windows to let fresh air in, that’s not always an option. The dust on carpets and furniture only makes things worse.
A professional cleaning company will use advanced equipment to vacuum and disinfect the desks and other items in your office. They will also remove all harmful contaminants from the air ducts. The end result? A better-functioning HVAC system, improved air quality, and healthier employees. Your energy costs will fall, too.
Professional Office Cleaning Services May Prevent the Spread of Infection
Creating a safe and healthy work environment is more important than ever before. As a manager, the last thing you want is to see your employees taking sick days. If that happens in the midst of a pandemic, your business may need to shut down for weeks. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Use professional office cleaning services to keep your staff and your business safe. Contact our team to discuss your needs and get a free quote!