Most people would prefer to spend the winter season bundled up at home, oblivious to the cold conditions outside. Unfortunately, for many, that isn't a possibility. Winter brings an increase in illnesses such as colds and flu. It can even take a toll on the buildings where we work. For this reason, preparing your office for the winter months by preventing the spread of germs and keeping your workplace safe is essential. Read on for practical tips to ensure that your office is winter ready.
Service your air conditioning and heating systems
These systems ensure optimal temperature regulation in office buildings. That is, of course, if they are in optimal condition. Why is this important? Keeping a neutral air temperature in an office building not only allows employees to work comfortably but can also help to prevent them from getting sick. According to Dr. Robert Glatter, an ER physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, disease-causing viruses survive and spread more effectively in colder temperatures. For this reason, it is best to set your office temperature roughly between 69 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, employees won't overheat, and viruses won't have optimal conditions. Make sure your air systems have been serviced and that they are in good working order. Furnace filters should be changed every four months - this will improve the air quality in an office. Since viruses also prefer dry air, placing a humidifier in your office is a good idea.
Stock up on sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
Since germs spread faster in winter, stocking up on disinfectants like hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes is essential. Office buildings, especially large corporations, are breeding grounds for viruses and bacteria due to the vast number of people coming and going each day. Place sanitizing stations in areas that receive a lot of traffic and are more prone to germs, such as entrances, bathrooms, and kitchen areas. You can also use disinfectant wipes to clean desks, light switches, and equipment.
Give carpets and rugs a deep clean
Carpets and rugs attract a lot of dust, dirt, and pollen that can cause employees to have allergic reactions. Steam cleaning the carpets in your office building will remove the build-up of dust and pollen that has formed since the last spring. If applicable, you should also perform a deep clean on any couches or fabric furniture you may have in waiting rooms or areas for clients to protect them from harmful germs as well. Investing in extra mats can also help to reduce dirt in the office. Placing door mats at entrance points will catch most of the wet grime and dirt employees bring in when it rains or snows outside.
Encourage sick employees to stay home
The best way to prevent illnesses from spreading is to stay away from infected people. Employees who are sick, even if it's a mild cold, should be encouraged to stay home and rest or work from home until they are well, if possible.
Keep air vents clean
While servicing heating and cooling systems is vital, many people tend to overlook the air ducts that transport the air coming in and out of these systems. Allergens such as dust and pollen can quickly build up in your air vents and cause poor-quality air to be circulated in your office building. These vents should be cleaned every one to two years. Since this is a major job, hiring a professional to clean them is best.
Even though disease-causing germs are more common in the winter months, keeping your office building clean can help to reduce them and keep your employees safe.
Trust Bayside to help keep your office clean! From regular janitorial work and sanitization to bio-hazard cleanup we've got you covered. Contact us today for your quote!
