How to effectively clean your workplace after a case of COVID-19
Australian businesses are beginning to reopen and kick-start the economy and workers are glad to be heading back into the office. However, as restrictions are lifted and no matter how thorough your cleaning schedule, there is always a chance a confirmed case of COVID-19. With outside restrictions lifting across the states COVID-19 could appear in your workplace.
It’s important that all businesses have a plan in place to effectively and clean and disinfect their building should the need arise. It’s a big responsibility, but there are easy ways to manage a safe and healthy workplace. Here are our top five top tips to clean your workplace after a confirmed case of COVID-19:-
Engage a professional and use high-quality cleaning chemicals
This is a very important step. You need to make sure you get the right people and the right cleaning chemicals for the job. It is not a time to cut corners or use budget cleaning chemicals. Contact a commercial cleaning company who is experienced in dealing with a confirmed case situation in offices, factories, schools and other commercial premises for peace of mind for yourself and to communicate to your workers so they feel safe returning to work.
Speed is critical
COVID-19 can linger on soft surfaces for up to 72 hours. The moment you are made aware of a confirmed case, you need to get to work to contain the spread of infection. This is why it’s a good idea to have a professional cleaning team on call to head to your workplace as soon as possible to start the deep clean.
Seal off suspected contaminated areas
You do not need to evacuate a whole building close your business. However, you do need to seal off where the person had worked along with any common and shared areas. Kitchens and bathrooms are the most obvious and important. However, touchpoints such as lifts, reception, phones, computer screens, door handles and stair rails also need to be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and sanitised.
Get some airflow going
If you have a building with windows and doors, open them up to ensure as much air circulation as possible
Do a full, final clean before staff return
Having a confirmed case can increase worry and concern for staff. Send a communication that you have sealed off potentially contaminated areas and given them a thorough detailed clean and that to be extra safe, you have engaged a cleaning team to sanitise the entire building before having staff return to work. This will demonstrate the importance of protecting your people, and allay any fears staff may have. To minimise gossip and speculation, ask any concerned staff to reach out to HR if they have any concerns.
Finally, put up new, fresh signs for staff. This reminds them of the importance of social distancing and frequent hand washing. Sanitising and cleaning of personal items and equipment is also vital to the continued safety of the workplace.
