Collaboration and teamwork are the norm in today’s modern offices. However, as colleagues gather in crowded meeting rooms and huddle over workstations exchanging ideas, they also share something more sinister – germs. If the spread of these pathogens remains unchecked, it can affect the wellness of employees and the overall productivity of the workplace.
Although you may come across common germs and bacteria in specific areas, it is important to remember that there are many hidden spots where you might be missing out. BioCair Singapore highlights the importance of familiarising yourself with the most unhygienic areas in your office and taking necessary measures to ensure a healthier workspace.
Learn More: 4 Tips to Encourage Clean and Healthy Workplaces
Location #1: High-touch Surfaces
As one of the high-touch surfaces, the buttons of an elevator accumulate plenty of germs due to the countless visitors accessing the lift daily. That means you and your employees could come into contact with harmful pathogens even before entering the office. While using elbows or knuckles to press buttons can reduce direct contact and transfer of germs, it is a half-measure.
However, this is not the only high-touch surface you must be aware of. Other areas, such as communal workplace desks, door handles, and even pantry areas, may harbour numerous hidden germs and bacteria, often unbeknownst to you.
To ensure thorough eradication of bacteria, you can provide alcohol-free disinfectants in a prominent area in your office – ideally, common areas where employees gather and congregate. This allows employees to disinfect their hands immediately, lowering the risk of cross-contamination when in contact with common high-touch surfaces.
Location #2: Office desks and workstations
Studies have discovered that the average work desk harbours 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat! Food crumbs, beverage spills, and poor cleaning habits are just some factors contributing to the accumulation of germs on surfaces and in crevices.
Encourage employees to maintain good hygiene by keeping their workstations clean and refrain from eating at their desks. You can go the extra mile by providing disinfectant sprays to further safeguard their workspaces from harmful germs.
In addition to commonly addressed high-touch surfaces such as keyboards, mouse, and telephones, it is important not to overlook the potential spread of germs and bacteria through the air. Furthermore, prioritise staff safety by incorporating air disinfection machines in meeting rooms, particularly in areas where the risk of airborne transmission is higher. These machines play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of your employees.
Location #3: Pantry
Areas where food is consumed and prepared are often breeding grounds for germs and bacteria, particularly the sink, countertop, microwave, and refrigerator. Food particles, spills, and improperly stored perishable items can all contribute to the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Always clean and disinfect the appliances, countertops, and tables regularly with disinfectant sprays. Encourage employees to clean up after themselves, store food items correctly, and discard expired or spoiled items regularly to maintain a clean and safe office pantry for all.
Location #4: Carpet and upholstery
Carpets and upholsteries are notorious for trapping dust, dirt, and other contaminants over time if not cleaned regularly. Every time an employee rolls their chair back and forth on the mat or steps on the carpet, their actions cause these unhealthy microorganisms to be released into the air, resulting in allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.
Consider deep cleaning carpets and upholsteries periodically to eliminate embedded dirt and bacteria. It is also important to clean up spills immediately to prevent stubborn stains and the development of mould or mildew.
Location #5: Restrooms
Restrooms are the most apparent areas where germs and bacteria thrive, especially surfaces like door handles, sinks, and toilet seats. Faucet handlers and toilet flushes, in particular, are significant germ spreaders. Beyond regularly cleaning and disinfecting the restroom surfaces, stock hand hygiene essentials such as hand sanitisers, paper towels, and soap to promote good restroom etiquette.
Creating a clean and hygienic office environment is essential for the well-being and productivity of everyone in the workplace. By paying attention to these unsanitary areas in your office, you can reduce the risk of spreading infections and create a safer and healthier workspace for all.
