Times, and behaviors, have quickly changed because of COVID-19. Some of these changes are good, wise, and perhaps long overdue. The protocols for disinfecting public areas are great examples because we can also implement them at home.
I’ve worked in the cleaning industry for more than a decade. In that time, you can hardly imagine what kinds of hidden enemies I’ve found … and where. It’s changed my approach to everyday cleaning.
Sanitize High Touch Points
This may seem like a no-brainer. But there’s a reason why these cleaning practices are now considered “enhanced”. It’s because they weren’t being done before. Small and simple acts like sanitizing keyboards, doorknobs, security keypads, light switches and coffee pots go a long way in reducing the spread of communicable disease. For your child’s school this could mean disinfecting the toys several times a day. Also having the carpets cleaned and disinfected once a week instead of once a month or quarter.
Ask yourself in public places (and also of your own home): Are they using non-toxic disinfectants or are they using toxic chemicals that will damage your health as you are in their facility? Are they using microfiber cloths to pick up 99% of what they’re wiping up instead of spreading germs and chemicals around? If using bleach, are they allowing the proper dwell time of 5 to 10 minutes (hint: not likely in most cases)?
Face Masks
Wearing face masks is nothing new in the cleaning industry. We’ve been wearing them, and other forms of PPEs, for a long time. They reduce the aerosolization of germs that come out of mouths and noses. So to me, face masks are nothing political; just necessary to protect and keep people safer.
Small and simple acts like sanitizing keyboards, doorknobs, security keypads, light switches and coffee pots go a long way in reducing the spread of communicable disease.
Carpets
Carpets are being cleaned and disinfected on a frequent basis. This includes vacuuming, cleaning and disinfecting. Each one of those being its own separate individual activity or task. Vacuuming to remove soils and allergens. Cleaning so the disinfectant can actually work and restore some aesthetic. Disinfecting to destroy the germs.
Disinfectant Fogging
This may be new to some, but I’ve been fogging people’s homes and businesses for over a decade now. In fact, fogging has primarily been used in the restoration industry for mold remediation and things of that nature. Disinfectant fogging is a very powerful, effective method to greatly improve the hygiene in your home, office, school, gym, place of worship or event center. When looking for a disinfectant fogging service remember not all companies are the same–some offer more value than others.
Is hand sanitizer freely and widely available in the facility? While washing hands with soap and water is best, hand sanitizer is the next best thing especially if you need to disinfect in a pinch.
Are social distancing measures in place and education available and being taught to staff? After all, what good does it do to have all these measures in place if they’re not being followed? Take time to observe staff and others interacting in the space. See for yourself if it’s a safe environment for you and your family.
Basic Measures
I hope what I list above is helpful for you in determining if a business has basic measures in place and is showing dedication to you as a customer in highlighting your safety.
If you have any questions about disinfecting for your home or business or need help in putting Southern Nevada Health District guidelines in place to reopen safely, please feel free to contact me directly at lyndon@germzbegone.com and I’ll be glad to help.
Written by: Lyndon Conaway
Lyndon is president and CEO of Germz Be Gone, the premier nontoxic mobile cleaning service in Las Vegas. From creating unique services like car seat and stroller cleaning to sports gear sanitizing and both disinfectant and probiotic fogging. Lyndon dedicates his time to helping others achieve better hygiene through cleaning (and helping his daughters learn to ride a bike.)