Let’s be frank for a minute, Covid-19 has been at the forefront of everything for the last 2 years, but it’s not the only virus that matters, nor is it the only factor we can take into consideration when maintaining work/life balances. Germs have always been here. They are here to stay. It’s not a matter of removing ALL the risk of germs, it’s about finding a balanced approach, and a great cleaning protocol that reduces the risk of spread, in a mindful way that doesn’t feel overwhelming.
As we move past the daily Covid updates, we must continue to remain vigilant in all cleaning protocols. Sometimes it feels like you require a science degree to maneuver through the ins and outs of cleaning protocols. Bacteria vs viruses. Exposure to respiratory droplets vs contact exposure. What does it all mean? Why is it always changing? How do we work together to find a consistent, and safe way to keep our customers safe?
Nailing a great cleaning protocol means more than just cleaning everything all the time. It’s taking your own personal scenarios into consideration, while identifying the higher-risk target areas of your business. For example, a small business with a private employee washroom may need a great hand washing protocol, with nightly washroom cleaning. A restaurant may need that same great hand washing protocol, with an advanced washing cleaning protocol that requires hourly cleaning schedules. A rest stop may require 15-minute intervals.
We’ve all been diligently cleaning and sanitizing workplace surfaces as part of our efforts to reduce transmission of COVID-19, now it’s time to fine tune those protocols to maximize the cleanliness without duplication of effort.
Employees and customers have embraced cleaning and sanitizing routines put forth during the Covid-19 pandemic. As we move forward, knowing that a business is prioritizing cleanliness protocols is of utmost importance to customers who may still feel uncertain about maneuvering through their day now that mandated protocols are lifted.
Here are some simple ways to ensure customers feel safe when entering your establishment:
- Continue high-quality cleaning and sanitizing, identify high-touch and high-traffic areas that will continue to require additional protocols.
- Ensure proper hand washing protocols, and if employees are masked, remind them to wear them properly, and to avoid touching their faces in an effect to reduce spread of germs.
- Post signs in washrooms regarding hand washing and encourage the use of hand sanitizer if washrooms are not available. Proving information regarding your protocols on websites and social media can provide a sense of safety to potential customers.
- Move air and improve ventilation where possible to reduce the likelihood of the deposits of expelled virus particles onto surfaces.
- Train employees early and often regarding cleaners, chemicals, or protocols that have changed.
- Inform customers that you are ensuring their safety through cleaning, sanitizing and other control methods while reminding them to touch surfaces or objects as little as possible, and to hand wash or sanitize. Use signs, posters, and your PA system.
- Maintain high standards at all times, and do not fall back on protocols in off-seasons. While the flu and cold season general exists from October to May, it’s not usually for other bacteria and viruses to spread too.
- Reach out to Dynamo Sanitizing for help in planning a great sanitizing protocol! (Don’t forget about pressure washing, too!)
