Spring has officially arrived, and as the temperatures rise, so too, do allergens and allergy symptoms. From outside sources like pollen to interior dust mites and mould, cleaning and maintenance to reduce allergens helps improve occupant health, increase productivity, and reduce absenteeism. Research shows that 46 per cent of people have seasonal allergies, and 22 per cent have missed work or school because of their symptoms.

With a targeted focus on cleaning on maintenance, facility managers can reduce occupant exposure to common allergens.

Improving air quality

Keeping airborne allergens to a minimum means improving your IAQ and your HVAC system is a good place to start. Upgrading to HEPA filters, completing regular filter changes, and adding portable air purifiers will help remove any dust and dirt from the air. Pollen is a common allergen, and it can enter the building on clothing, through an open window, or via the HVAC system. Keeping windows or bay doors closed, deep cleaning, and improving IAQ can help keep pollen out of the air in your building.

Minimizing mould

Mould can bring on allergy symptoms, as well as causing expensive damage, so be proactive in avoiding mould in your building. Identify early signs of mould, like moisture, staining, or odour to treat these areas as soon as they occur. Ensure that your humidity levels are below 50 per cent, using a dehumidifier, if necessary. Look for potential leak areas, where water may be able to enter your building through the walls or the roof, and ensure that your building remains as dry as possible to deter any mould growth.

Deep cleaning

Keeping a regular cleaning schedule can also help keep allergens to a minimum. Practice damp dusting surfaces, light fixtures, and electronics to remove dust without letting particles get into the air. Dust mites and particles can collect in carpet fibres, so regularly clean your carpets, upholstery, and fabrics with a HEPA filter vacuum to pick up tiny particles. Chemicals can encourage allergy symptoms, so look for cleaning products with green certifications and natural, unscented, chemical-free ingredients.

Removing allergens from your building requires a regular, dedicated effort in maintaining optimal air quality, keeping a sharp eye on any moisture, and creating a regular deep cleaning schedule throughout the spring and summer.