Even if your staff managed to get through the fall and then the holidays without getting sick, that doesn’t mean it can’t still happen. For this reason, facility managers must do everything they can to keep everyone happy and healthy.
Winter brings with it a fresh wave of cold and flu season. Even if your staff managed to get through the fall and then the holidays without getting sick, that doesn’t mean it can’t still happen. For this reason, facility managers must do everything they can to keep everyone happy and healthy. Not only are healthier workers more productive, but they can also help cultivate an atmosphere where your building is a fun and fulfilling place to work. Let’s look at some ways that facility managers can achieve this goal.
Keep It Clean
No matter what your business does, everyone is going to be busy. One way facility managers can make sure their buildings are clean is to hire trustworthy and dedicated cleaners. Part of cleaning the building includes sanitization. As long as regular cleaning is adhered to, your employees shouldn’t be getting sick as often as they once did. By doing this, it’s possible to eliminate many germs, bacteria, and viruses that might be lurking in unexpected places.
Disinfect Surfaces
Never forget how sick building syndrome can affect everyone inside the building. Although they have plenty to do, employees can do their part to spot clean and wipe down surfaces they come into contact with; these include the following:
- Desks
- Keyboards and mice
- Doorknobs
- Elevator buttons
Although most offices will have cleaning experts come in and clean once a week, it is worthwhile to ensure that the building’s surfaces are cleaned and disinfected at least once a day as opposed to once a week.
Carpets, curtains, and furniture should be kept clean as well. Although it seems unlikely, germs from coughing and sneezing can travel and settle on this surfaces as well. There’s also the possibility of food and drink spills if your employees regularly eat and drink at their desks while they continue working.
Stock Cleaning Supplies
Even though the cleaners will probably rely on their own cleaning supplies, it is still a good idea to keep some basic cleaning supplies on hand. Whether there’s a spill in the break room or an accident, having the right cleaning supplies available can make life easier for everyone involved. Commercially-sold cleaning wipes are one of your best weapons against germs. Although filled with cleaning solutions, they don’t cause a mess and don’t need to be diluted before use. They are convenient simple to use. Don’t forget that any disinfectants that are used must be given the proper amount of time to work before being wiped off.
Encourage Better Hygiene
One last piece of advice for facility managers is to encourage better hygiene. Everyone should wash their hands with soap and hot water as often as possible, especially after coughing, sneezing, or visiting the restroom. If anyone is actively sick, inform them they can and should stay home until they feel well again.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals lower their operating expenses through HVAC preventive maintenance. We can develop a cost-effective, customized preventive maintenance plan for your commercial building that will provide you with peace of mind, improved comfort, and energy savings.
To learn more about the importance of HVAC Preventive Maintenance, please contact us at 202.600.2787 or sales@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority service with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC.