The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped how we view workplace hygiene, turning a clean office from a nicety into a necessity. In London, Ontario, where businesses thrive on collaboration and community, keeping staff safe is more critical than ever. Germs don’t just threaten health—they sap productivity, morale, and trust. But with the right practices, you can stop viruses in their tracks and foster a workspace that’s as healthy as it is welcoming. From hand hygiene to air quality, MedClean Janitorial Services Inc. shares these expert tips to create a sanitized office environment—because a safe space is a thriving space.
1. Prioritize Regular Hand Hygiene
Handwashing isn’t just a habit—it’s your frontline defense against viruses. The CDC recommends scrubbing with soap and water for at least 40 seconds (sing “Happy Birthday” twice!), hitting palms, fingertips, and under nails. No sink nearby? Keep hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol at your desk or in common areas—apply a dime-sized drop and rub until dry.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, where germs hitch a ride into your system. A 2015 study found people touch their faces 23 times an hour—yep, it’s that common! Post reminders near workstations or restrooms to reinforce this habit. Clean hands mean fewer sick days and a happier team.
2. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces Daily
High-touch surfaces are germ hotspots, especially in busy offices. Keyboards, mice, desk phones, light switches, elevator buttons, door handles, and shared equipment like printers need daily attention. Use EPA-approved disinfectants (e.g., Lysol or a bleach solution—1/3 cup bleach per gallon of water) and wipe thoroughly, letting the surface air-dry for maximum effect.
For a deeper clean, target these areas twice daily in high-traffic offices—once mid-morning, once late afternoon. A University of Arizona study found office phones can harbor 25,000 germs per square inch—more than a toilet seat! Regular disinfection slashes that risk, keeping your workspace safe and sanitary.
3. Keep Your Personal Workspace Spotless
Your desk is your domain—keep it clean to protect yourself and others. Wipe down your desk and chair daily with disinfectant wipes or a cloth sprayed with an all-purpose cleaner. Don’t skip computer peripherals: keyboards, mice, and monitors collect dust, crumbs, and bacteria. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol (squeezed nearly dry) for keys, and a microfiber cloth with a 50/50 water-vinegar mix for screens—test a corner first to avoid damage.
Declutter, too. Piles of papers or knickknacks trap dust and make cleaning harder. A tidy desk isn’t just easier to sanitize—it boosts focus, with studies showing clutter increases stress by 15%. Start your day with a quick wipe-down and enjoy the peace of mind.
4. Maintain Social Distancing
Even as restrictions ease, spacing out keeps germs at bay. Aim for at least 6 feet between workstations—rearrange desks or use partitions if needed. Avoid crowding in break rooms or hallways; stagger breaks to thin out traffic.
Embrace digital tools to cut physical contact. Swap in-person huddles for Zoom calls or Slack chats—your team stays connected without the risk. For client meetings, offer virtual options. Less mingling means fewer germs, especially during flu season or virus spikes.
5. Master Cough and Sneeze Etiquette
A single sneeze can launch 40,000 droplets up to 26 feet—gross, right? Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your elbow every time. Toss used tissues into a lined trash bin immediately—don’t let them linger on your desk. Provide no-touch bins with foot pedals in common areas to make this easy.
Encourage staff to do the same with friendly signs (e.g., “Sneeze into your sleeve, please!”). Proper etiquette isn’t just polite—it’s a barrier against airborne germs, keeping the office air cleaner for everyone.
6. Boost Ventilation and Air Circulation
Stuffy air breeds germs, especially in winter when windows stay shut. Open windows and doors for 10-15 minutes daily (weather permitting) to let fresh air flush out stale particles. In larger offices, ensure HVAC systems are serviced quarterly—clean or replace filters to keep airflow crisp.
For extra protection, add a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter in meeting rooms or tight spaces. Studies show good ventilation can reduce virus transmission by up to 30%. Fresh air doesn’t just fight germs—it lifts moods and sharpens focus, too.
7. Sanitize Shared Spaces and Amenities
Conference rooms, kitchens, and break areas are germ-sharing zones. Disinfect tables, chairs, countertops, and appliances after each use—keep wipes or spray bottles handy for staff to pitch in. In the kitchen, clean coffee makers, fridge handles, and microwaves daily; a quick steam with water and baking soda keeps the microwave odor-free.
Minimize shared items like pens, staplers, or snack bowls—label personal supplies or provide single-use options. A “clean as you go” rule keeps these spaces safe and cuts the load on your cleaning crew.
8. Stay Informed and Educate
Knowledge is power in a hygienic office. Follow guidelines from Health Canada or the CDC—rules evolve, and staying current keeps you compliant. Share updates via email or a bulletin board: “Masks optional but encouraged during flu season,” for example.
Educate your team with short, fun tips—host a 5-minute “Hygiene Huddle” or post infographics (e.g., “How to Wash Hands Like a Pro”). An informed staff is an empowered one, ready to keep the office safe together.
9. Encourage Responsible Behavior
Lead by example: wash your hands visibly, disinfect your desk in front of colleagues, and cough into your elbow. Small acts inspire others. Promote a culture of cleanliness—reward staff who keep shared spaces tidy or suggest a “Clean Desk Friday” challenge.
Encourage accountability: if someone forgets to wipe down the conference table, a gentle nudge (“Hey, mind giving it a quick clean?”) reinforces the habit. A team that owns its space stays healthier—and happier.
MedClean: Your Sanitation Partner
These DIY steps are a solid start, but for a truly sanitized workspace, MedClean Janitorial Services Inc. in London, Ontario, has your back. Our Green Team uses medical-grade disinfectants and advanced techniques to tackle germs where they hide. From daily disinfection to deep cleans, we tailor our services to your office’s needs. Call (519) 701-6675 for a free quote and let us keep your workspace safe all year round!
A Healthier Office Awaits
Post-COVID, a clean workspace isn’t optional—it’s essential. Regular handwashing, diligent disinfection, and smart habits like distancing and ventilation build a fortress against viruses. Add MedClean’s professional touch, and your London, Ontario, office becomes a sanctuary of health and productivity. Take charge today—call (519) 701-6675 and create a safe, sanitized workspace your team deserves!
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