5 Cleaning tips to consider during Coronavirus

Consider new Ways of Working

Before considering how a space is cleaned, first think about how it is used. Think about which spaces in the business have the most foot traffic and be creative in reimagining how they can be used in order to distribute people evenly, reducing the risk presented by clusters of employees.

Consider implementing a one-way system to help employees and visitors adhere to social distancing. Ensure this is easy to navigate and clearly signposted. Keep the windows open if possible and check there is a well-maintained air extraction system.

Use Appropriate Cleaning Products, disinfectant and Ecostatic Spraying

Using suitable products and making sure staff know how to use them is vital. In non-health care settings, sodium hypochlorite (bleach / chlorine) may be used at a recommended concentration of 0.1% or 1,000ppm (1 part of 5% strength household bleach to 49 parts of water). Alcohol at 70-90% can also be used for surface disinfection. Surfaces must be cleaned with water and soap or a detergent first to remove dirt, followed by disinfection. Cleaning should always start from the least soiled (cleanest) area to the most soiled (dirtiest) area in order to not spread the dirty to areas that are less soiled.

The product attracts bacteria, germs and other contaminants, eliminating them and leaving only water and pure oxygen following the cleaning process. It is a natural product that is considered environmentally friendly and can be used on a wide range of surfaces including food preparation areas. OIC Cleaning team is available for deep cleaning any business environment. Our Ecostatic Spraing specialist is available 24/7 for same day service.

Update and Review Cleaning Procedures Regularly

Divide surfaces into two categories: frequently touched points (e.g. rails, door handles, light switches, tabletops etc.) and minimally touched points (e.g. ceilings, floors and walls). Ensure these are cleaned regularly in line with use, i.e. the more frequently they are touched the more frequently they are cleaned.

Ensure surfaces are cleaned using the appropriate products and in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. Keep a record of all instances of cleaning and who is accountable – there are apps that can help with this.

Consider deep cleaning offices or other premises regularly using third party professional contractors. Every building is different, but a deep clean should consist of everything from dusting walls and cleaning light switches to wiping down equipment and sanitising kitchen cabinets, appliances and furniture. OIC Cleaning team is available for deep cleaning any business environment. Our Ecostatic Spraing specialist is available 24/7 for same day service.

Ensure Cleaning Staff are Visible and Equipped With PPE

Cleaners and the general workforce used to be like ships in the night, with only the early birds and night owls ever seeing cleaners in their workplace. Now, visible OIC cleaning teams help to reassure employees and visitors to the building that cleaning is taking place throughout the day, not just when everyone else has left. OIC cleaning staff are equipped with PPE and ensuring they are using it is fundamental to keep all staff safe and reassured.

 Ensure Changes are Long-Term, not Temporary

Unfortunately, COVID-19 is likely to continue to impact businesses in the coming months and even years. Therefore, ensure that all changes made are long-term, while easily adaptable to account for changing COVID-19 regulations, government guidance and recommended cleaning procedures.

Businesses are keen to protect employees who need to visit the premises to do their job – it is of utmost importance. A COVID-19 outbreak in a business that failed to put proper cleaning protocols in place or appoint an appropriate service provider could have serious consequences.