As businesses brace for the upcoming allergy season, there are a host of things to consider that can ensure the comfort of your employees and customers. Thomas Walkerden, National Key Account Manager – Facilities Management at Bunzl Australia & New Zealand, says that the key to managing allergies in the workplace comes down to correct and consistent cleaning practices.
“To reduce something like pollen, keep your windows and doors closed and use air conditioning with proper filtration,” explains Walkerden. “You should regularly be cleaning surfaces to remove build-up and damp dust, when possible, as dry dusting can stir up allergens.”
According to Asthma Australia, the top triggers of allergies across the country include dampness, mould, and dust mites. In commercial buildings such as airports, shopping centres, and residential care facilities these present significant concerns to visitors and occupants, and can affect productivity and wellbeing. To counter the health triggers of spring, businesses can tailor their cleaning and hygiene practices and products.
“Make sure that you’re vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. A HEPA filter will trap small particles like pollen, dust mites and pet dander,” says Walkerden. “You should also wash curtains in hot water at least weekly to kill dust mites. Additionally, encourage your employees to report any allergy systems they experience as this can help pinpoint allergens specific to your facility.”
“encourage your employees to report any allergy systems they experience as this can help pinpoint allergens specific to your facility.”
Thomas Walkerden, National Key Account Manager – Facilities Management at Bunzl Australia & New Zealand
The key to spring-tailored cleaning is a proactive approach, paired with effective cleaning tools, and utilised with a consistent cleaning schedule. Walkerden advises that there are a few effective tools that should be kept on hand to tame the sneezy season, including:
Microfibre Cloths and Mops
Microfibre has a static charge that attracts and traps dust and allergens more effectively than traditional cloths or mops.
HEPA Filter Vacuums
Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters can capture smaller particles (0.3 microns or larger) that standard vacuum filters might miss.
Steam Cleaners
Steam cleaning can effectively kill dust mites and remove allergens from carpets, upholstery, and mattresses by using high-temperature steam.
Allergy Kit
Make it easy for staff to look after themselves at work by providing and restocking allergy-friendly resources such as tissues, surface wipes, hand sanitiser and cleaning cloths.
By maintaining a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment, workplaces can significantly reduce the impact of allergens and provide a healthier workspace for all employees during allergy season.
