With spring allergies and fluctuating temperatures, our immune systems can be tossed around and tested. This makes us more susceptible to illnesses like colds, stomach bugs and the like. When you work in a closed environment like an office with many people as well, germs can spread really quickly.
For instance, researchers at the University of Arizona recently conducted a study at an office building which has 80 employees. A door was contaminated on purpose with bacteria that has the same shape, size and ability to survive to the common cold and stomach flu.
Within two hours, the entire break room from its appliances to the fridge door was contaminated. The virus made its way to bathrooms, cubicles, desks and even individual offices.
The findings were the most heavily contaminated areas were those that we touch with our hands; keyboards, door handles, tables and computers. It was found that more than 50% of the office was covered in this bacteria.
Studies indicate the average adult brings their fingers to the nose, mouth or eyes about 16 times an hour. For children ages 2 to 5, the number is as many as 50 times an hour. And pathogens like respiratory viruses, can survive on a surface from two to four days.
What to Do to Prevent Germs from Spreading
Here are a few measures you can take:
Keep hand sanitizers on desks and common areas – only use them during an outbreak in an office or you can run the risk of killing “good” bacteria that can help fight off the bad bacteria
Encourage employees to wipe down their keyboards and desks every few days
Encourage kitchen sanitation and handwashing
Hire a professional cleaning service to come in on a regular frequency– make sure they wipe down coffee handles, appliances, sinks and surfaces to thoroughly to maximize the cleaning session
If the office is carpeted, be aware that viruses can survive longer in different materials and ensure that all areas are properly cleaned.
Taking preventative measures like these will decrease harmful germs and lessen the chances of your employees getting sick. Maintaining cleanliness is the key to healthy employees!
Contact Picture Perfect Cleaning today for a quote and ensure your office stays healthy and happy.
