Winter is coming and with it the increased spread of workplace infections like influenza and COVID. Viral infections thrive in poorly ventilated indoor environments filled with people working in close proximity as the tiny droplets released by sneezes and coughs land on high-touch surfaces.
The impact on workplaces can be huge. In Australia in 2022, one in ten employees was absent from work on any given day, while in New Zealand in the same year, absenteeism cost the economy NZD $2.86 billion. One of the most powerful ways to combat winter workplace sickness is effective cleaning and disinfecting practices.
Here are three key ways to ensure your workplace stays free from winter viruses and shows your employees you take their wellbeing seriously:
- Identify frequently touched surfaces and make sure they are cleaned multiple times a day – think door handles, handrails, shared telephones and other workplace equipment, washrooms, and kitchenware. Alcohol-based wipes are effective for high-contact areas.
- Thoroughly clean surfaces of grime and grease before using chemical disinfectant to kill germs.
- Place heavy-duty doormats at entrances to trap snow, dirt, and moisture, preventing them from being tracked further into the office.
- Regularly clean and replace these mats.
- Encourage staff to practice good hygiene. Washing your hands and cleaning surfaces leads to better hand hygiene, so making that loop work
significantly decreases the transmission of germs. Make it easy by ensuring soap and sanitiser (at least 60% alcohol) are always available and accessible.
