The COVID-19 pandemic is an ever-changing situation that requires diligence and proactive solutions. The introduction of a new variant has made it difficult for offices, factories, and facilities to remain open and operational.
Infections and outbreaks are likely to occur in your building and your service provider needs to have a plan in place to disinfect affected areas. The CDC regularly updates their guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting workspaces. Your janitorial team should follow these suggestions to effectively disinfect your office, factory, or facility.
Routine cleaning vs disinfecting
Routine cleaning and disinfecting are different actions. Routine cleaning is what your janitorial team will do to prevent the spread of illness and to keep your facility clean. Disinfecting is what your janitorial team will do in the case of an outbreak or infection. Regular disinfecting should be added to your routine cleaning regimen for as long as the pandemic lasts.
The CDC requires a plan in place in the instance of a positive COVID-19 case in your building. They also suggest that you focus more attention on these areas throughout the duration of the pandemic:
- High traffic areas
- Poorly ventilated rooms
- Areas with a large number of occupants
- Touch-points
- Entrances and exits
- Break rooms
- Restrooms
What to do in the event of a positive COVID-19 test in your facility
The most important step to take is not to panic. Your service provider has a plan in place for this very occurrence. Take the necessary steps to isolate the problem areas and set the plan in motion.
Wear the Proper PPE
Your janitorial staff will need to wear the proper PPE when addressing an infected area of your facility. The CDC recommends they wear gloves, a mask and protective goggles. They also need to:
- Be properly trained in procedures
- Read disinfectant labels so they use the agents properly
- Wash their hands for 20 seconds after they complete the job
Hard Surfaces and High-Traffic Areas
Begin by disinfecting surfaces and high-trafficked areas in your facility. Determine the areas that were potentially contaminated and cover them completely. Remember to follow all instructions on labels.
Soft Surfaces
After you address hard surfaces, concentrate your efforts on soft surfaces like carpets and drapes. Use the appropriate cleaning agents on the surface and then vacuum once the agent dries. Launder items like drapes if possible.
The CDC says it is safe to reopen the affected area 24 hours after disinfecting is complete. Return to routine cleaning procedures after that.
Promote Good Hygiene
A positive test in your facility can be a wakeup call for your employees and staff. This is a good time to remind them to practice good hygiene and wash their hands often. Also, remind them of the proper procedure should they begin to feel sick at work or at home.
Routine cleaning procedures to prevent infection in your facility
If you have not done so already, it is required that you develop a plan with your service provider for cleaning your facility during the pandemic.The CDC also emphasizes the importance of hiring a janitorial staff that is experienced in these procedures.
Implementing your routine cleaning plan is the single most important step you can take to keep your facility safe from COVID-19. Make sure the potential problem areas are maintained and disinfected regularly.
City Wide Facility Solutions has offices all over the country. We have the solutions you need to keep your facility clean, safe and open for business. Call us today 855-879-2937.
