Prepare Your Business for Flu Season with Proper Cleaning
As flu season approaches, businesses must take proactive steps to protect employees, customers, and operations from disruptions. A clean and hygienic workplace is essential in minimising the spread of germs and ensuring a healthy environment. Investing in proper cleaning practices not only safeguards your workforce but also enhances your company’s reputation for prioritising health and safety.
The Importance of Flu Season Preparedness
Every year, the flu affects millions of people, leading to significant absenteeism in the workplace. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that influenza-related illnesses result in billions of dollars in lost productivity annually. A well-prepared business can mitigate these losses by implementing effective cleaning and sanitation strategies.
Key Cleaning Practices to Prevent Flu Outbreaks
1. Increase Cleaning Frequency
One of the most effective ways to reduce flu transmission is by increasing the frequency of cleaning, especially in high-touch areas. Surfaces such as doorknobs, elevator buttons, desks, phones, and shared office equipment should be disinfected multiple times a day to eliminate harmful pathogens. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services to ensure thorough disinfection.
2. Use Effective Disinfectants
Not all cleaning products are created equal. Ensure that your business is using EPA-approved disinfectants that are effective against flu viruses. Look for cleaning solutions that contain at least 70% alcohol or are labeled as effective against influenza and other viruses.
3. Promote Hand Hygiene
Encouraging employees and customers to practice proper hand hygiene is a simple yet powerful way to prevent flu transmission. Install hand sanitiser stations at entrances, break rooms, and other common areas. Additionally, remind employees to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Visit our hygiene services page to explore our solutions.
4. Clean and Replace Air Filters
Poor indoor air quality can contribute to the spread of flu viruses. Ensure that HVAC systems are regularly maintained and that air filters are cleaned or replaced to reduce airborne contaminants. Consider using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to capture flu viruses and improve overall air quality.
5. Disinfect Shared Spaces
Common areas such as break rooms, restrooms, and meeting rooms should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Encourage employees to wipe down shared surfaces before and after use. Providing disinfectant wipes in communal areas makes it easier for everyone to contribute to a cleaner workspace. Explore our workplace cleaning solutions for professional assistance.
Employee and Customer Safety Measures
Encourage Sick Employees to Stay Home
To prevent the spread of illness, businesses should establish a clear sick leave policy that encourages employees to stay home when they are feeling unwell. Consider offering remote work options for those who can perform their tasks from home.
Educate Staff on Flu Prevention
Providing employees with educational materials about flu prevention can increase awareness and compliance with health protocols. Consider hosting a flu prevention workshop or sharing informational emails about hygiene practices, vaccination benefits, and workplace sanitation.
Stock Up on Cleaning Supplies
Ensure that your business has an adequate supply of cleaning products, including disinfectant sprays, hand sanitisers, disposable wipes, and paper towels. Keeping these supplies readily available allows employees to maintain a clean workspace throughout the flu season. Browse our cleaning supplies for effective solutions.
Professional Cleaning Services: A Smart Investment
While routine cleaning efforts by employees are beneficial, hiring a professional cleaning service ensures a deeper level of sanitation. Professional cleaners have the expertise, equipment, and disinfectants necessary to eliminate flu viruses effectively. A scheduled deep cleaning service can significantly reduce the risk of illness spreading in your workplace.
Conclusion
Flu season presents a serious challenge for businesses, but with proper cleaning and preventive measures, you can create a safer and healthier work environment. By increasing cleaning frequency, using the right disinfectants, promoting hand hygiene, maintaining indoor air quality, and encouraging sick employees to stay home, you can minimize disruptions and keep your workforce healthy. Investing in professional cleaning services is another excellent step in ensuring thorough sanitation and protection.
At Supercare, we specialise in professional cleaning solutions that help businesses maintain a safe and hygienic environment year-round. Contact us today to learn how we can assist in flu season preparedness and keep your workplace protected.
Locations in New Zealand we provide commercial cleaning too:
- Auckland
- Hamilton
- Taurango
- Whakatane
- Rotorua
- Napier
- Hastings
- Wairarapa
- Wellington
- ChristChurch
- Dunedin
- Nelson
- Manawatu
- New Plymouth
- Hamilton