As an office manager, you know how disruptive cold and flu season can be. When even one employee misses a few days of work, productivity can suffer. Before you know it, germs are spreading through the office, and sick days are on the rise. This year, stay ahead of cold and flu viruses all year round with regular professional office cleanings by Prime Facility Maintenance.
When Does Cold and Flu Season Start?
It may still be summer here in Texas, but we’re quickly approaching autumn. If you want to get a system in place to boost office health before cold and flu season begins, now is the time. According to the CDC, flu activity tends to increase in October, peaking between December and February.
What steps can you take to protect your office from the influx of germs? Encourage employees to get their flu and COVID shots in the coming weeks and ask that people stay home when they’re feeling sick. Additionally, schedule regular janitorial services to keep the office clean in every season so your employees can STAY well.
The Importance of Disinfecting Surfaces
When cold and flu carriers cough, sneeze, or even speak, they can spread droplets throughout the office that can infect their coworkers. Not only are these droplets briefly airborne, making it easy for others to breathe them in, but they also land on surfaces and live there for up to 48 hours. Employees can also contract viruses by touching an actively infected surface and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.
Frequent janitorial services can play an important role in disinfecting surfaces, particularly in high-touch areas. By properly cleaning breakroom countertops, doorknobs, light switches, office phones, and more, you can reduce the spread of germs in your workplace.
Improving Air Quality for Respiratory Health
At a time when symptoms like coughing and congestion are rampant, poor air quality can wreak more havoc than normal. Indoor air pollution can cause respiratory symptoms that mimic viruses, leading employees to take unnecessary sick days. It can also exacerbate lingering symptoms for employees who are on the mend.
Janitorial services can improve indoor air quality in a variety of ways. For example, thorough vacuuming can remove the buildup of dust and dander that can get trapped in your carpets. Professional cleaners will also remove debris from often-overlooked spots like air vents and blinds.
Keeping Morale High with a Tidy Work Environment
Cold and flu viruses don’t just take a toll on the immune system. As we move into autumn and winter, temperatures drop and the days get increasingly shorter. This can have a significant effect on mental health and overall wellbeing for many people. Seasonal Affective Disorder, paired with the stress of the approaching holidays, may cause a dip in office morale—and a dip in productivity. A clean and tidy office can help employees feel focused, comfortable, and motivated even as the seasons change.
Prime Facility Maintenance has helped businesses in DFW, Waco, and San Antonio beat the cold and flu virus (and season) year after year. Get in touch so we can get ahead of the curve and get your professional cleaning schedule up and running.
