It’s the holiday season, which also means we’re entering high season for the flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). In fact, the Centers for Disease Control is predicting that this 2022-2023 flu season will be more severe than it has been in 13 years.
During this season of sickness (and also of joy, we hope), maybe you can guess where you have the highest chance of getting sick: the workplace! In fact, your odds of catching one of these respiratory illnesses at work is about one in 10. Odds double for workers in healthcare settings, like clinics and hospitals.
How employers can reduce the spread of disease at work
Because the workplace is a big spreader of winter illnesses, employers typically take steps to reduce the spread of disease.
Key among them is stepping up the frequency and intensity of workplace cleaning. Here’s why: most respiratory illnesses are spread by airborne viruses. These viruses land on surfaces at work, and viruses can live on surfaces for 24 hours. An easy way to get sick is by touching a surface with the virus (such as a shared keyboard, a desktop, a bathroom sink or a conference room table) and then touching your eyes, mouth or nose.
That’s where a good commercial cleaning company comes into play. According to the CDC, a commercial cleaner that uses disinfectants AND is diligent about cleaning all surfaces that may contain viruses will lower workplace transmission.
At Walz Enterprises, we have respiratory illness cleaning protocols that include:
- Using environmentally safe cleaning compounds that are strong disinfectants.
- Cleaning all surfaces that many cleaning companies miss—surfaces that retain and spread germs such as switch plates, keyboards, computer screens, desktops, sinks in restrooms and common areas, and metal or plastic armrests.
- Emptying trash, particularly if it contains used facial tissue.
According to the CDC, a commercial cleaner that uses disinfectants AND is diligent about cleaning all surfaces that may contain viruses will lower workplace transmission.
Why employers should be especially diligent about cleanliness this holiday season
Respiratory illnesses were less of a concern during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Employees were working remotely when possible. Some wore masks and many workers were especially careful about germ transmission. As a result, disease incidence was down.
As the pandemic has receded and more employees are back at work (and being required to return to work), respiratory illnesses are increasing along with costly employee absenteeism, reduced productivity and increasing healthcare claims.
Employers are urging workers to get the flu shot, stay home when sick and use care while at work to contain the spread of disease. They also are investing in more intense and frequent professional cleaning of the workplace by firms that have a reputation and experience in hygienic cleaning.