Everyone loves a clean office space. Even though the space might look clean, there still might be an accumulation that you can’t see: Germs.
Last year, Kimberly-Clark professional, the maker of such brands like Kleenex, Scott, Huggies and more, did a study billed as “one of the most detailed and comprehensive studies conducted on identifying workplace hotspots where germs can lurk.” Company hygienists collected around 5,000 swabs from office buildings with more than 3,000 employees.
The areas with the highest levels of contamination were:
- Break room sink faucet handles
- Microwave door handles
- Keyboards
- Refrigerator door handles
- Water fountain buttons
- Vending machine buttons
Other areas with high contamination included computer mice, desk phones, office furniture, reception areas, ATMs, stair railings, copy stations, door handles, elevator buttons and conference tables.
What can be done to decrease germs in your office?
Understand why problem areas are problem areas
Take a look and identify surfaces that are used the most. Knowing this will allow you and your co-workers to adopt healthier sanitation habits.
Wash, wipe, sanitize
Wash your hands after going to the bathroom, sneezing, etc. Wipe off surfaces once you’re done using them. Keep hand sanitizer on your desk and other public locations to eliminate germ transmission.
Educate and communicate
Let your team know about the issue and communicate to them the seriousness of reducing germs in the workplace to create a healthier working environment.
Hire a professional
If you and your co-workers don’t have the time to thoroughly clean the office, hire a professional commercial cleaning company like All Source Building Services & Supply Co. Let us do the cleaning, while you worry about getting your work done.