Traffic often slows down during the summer: employees take vacation, schedules become more relaxed, but as facilities start to return to full capacity, it’s a perfect time to reinforce proper hygiene practices. Sofidel, a leading provider of paper for hygienic and domestic use, shares tips (originally designed for schools) that facility managers, cleaners, and maintenance teams can implement to help reduce the spread of germs and offer a healthier environment throughout the year.
Five tips to maintain a hygienic environment include:
Focus on high-touch surfaces. High-touch surfaces can harbour millions of bacteria per square inch. Ensure you clean and disinfect frequently touched areas, such as desks, door handles, light switches, cafeteria tables, and restroom fixtures, frequently throughout the day to help reduce bacteria. Pay special attention to handrails, elevator buttons, and shared equipment, too.
Encourage proper handwashing. The common cold causes an estimated 22 million sick days each year. Promote regular handwashing among visitors and staff: post signage, add handwashing stations if necessary, and monitor soap levels to ensure consistent availability.
Keep restrooms clean and well stocked. Routine restroom inspections help ensure waste bins are emptied, surfaces remain clean, waste stays minimal, and soap, paper towels and toilet paper stay stocked throughout the day. Selecting high-capacity paper towel and toilet paper dispensers can help reduce maintenance time and restocking frequency.
Use sustainable hygiene products. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends incorporating green cleaning products and practices into preventative maintenance plans. Choose third-party certified hygiene and cleaning products to help reduce waste while supporting your facility’s sustainability goals.
Stay ahead with preventative cleaning. Establish a consistent cleaning schedule instead of reacting only to visible messes. Proactive cleaning can help reduce the spread of germs and minimize disruptions throughout the year.
While these tips were originally meant for school use, they are a reminder for facilities that hygiene needs to remain a top priority, and as traffic increases through the colder months and we spend more time inside, it’s more important than ever to focus on maintaining a healthier environment.
