When the seasons change, workplaces can become hubs for the rapid spread of colds and flu. Everyone can stay healthy and productive if we all do a few simple things to lower the likelihood of being sick. Here are some simple steps to keep the flu and colds at bay at work.
Encourage Hand Washing
One of the most effective methods for preventing the transmission of the flu virus and the onset of colds is handwashing. People who work there should wash their hands with water and soap every day for at least 20 seconds. Hand cleansing is crucial when using shared surfaces, wheezing, or sneezing. If soap and water are unavailable, it is recommended that hand sanitizers with a minimum of 60% alcohol be provided in common areas such as break rooms and entrances.
Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
Cold and flu viruses can persist on surfaces for hours and, in some cases, days. Viruses such as influenza can persist on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours, while cold viruses can persist for several hours. Make it a habit to sanitize frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, keyboards, phones, and shared equipment, regularly. Minimize the risk of illness transmission by employing effective cleansing products against cold and flu viruses.
Promote Flu Vaccinations
To avoid contracting the flu, all you have to do is get a flu vaccination. Encourage employees to receive their annual vaccinations. To facilitate the process for all, it is possible to establish a flu vaccine facility at the place of employment. In addition to preventing the transmission of the flu, vaccines lessen the severity of the illness.
Provide Resources for Healthy Living
Maintaining a robust immune system can help employees mitigate influenza and colds. Wellness programs, nutritional food, and opportunities for physical activity can encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle. People should remember to get enough sleep, drink a lot of water, and eat a healthy diet. When you do these things, your immune system gets stronger, and bugs have a harder time getting in.
Minimize Shared Items
Cold and flu pathogens can be transmitted through shared items such as coffee containers, utensils, and office supplies. Encourage employees to utilize their containers and cutlery or offer disposable alternatives. To minimize the transmission of pathogens, communal areas should be cleaned regularly, and personal items should not be shared.
Educate About Virus Survival on Surfaces
Did you know that the flu virus can persist on surfaces for up to 48 hours? Cold viruses can also remain on surfaces for upwards of several hours. By providing employees with information regarding the duration of these viruses’ survival on surfaces, you can motivate them to disinfect and sanitize shared spaces more frequently. The following straightforward action mitigates the risk of contracting a cold or the virus from contaminated surfaces.
Encourage Physical Distancing
Encourage physical distancing whenever feasible during the prime cold and flu seasons. To increase the amount of space between individuals, rearrange the furnishings in shared areas such as meeting rooms or break areas. This aids in the prevention of the transmission of viruses and decreases the probability of direct contact.
Build a Culture of Health and Safety
Establishing a work environment that prioritizes health can significantly change the situation. Provide advice and reminders regarding the prevention of the flu and cold viruses. Reward workers who keep the workplace healthy. Workplace safety and virus prevention are simpler when everyone collaborates.
Provide Easy Access to Hygiene Supplies
Ensure employees can access the necessary supplies to participate in good sanitation practices. Stock up on cleansers, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizers, and tissues. Place these goods in strategic places so that workers may easily access them. An adequately equipped work environment can substantially diminish the transmission of pathogens.
Conduct Awareness Programs
Implement awareness initiatives to educate employees on how to avoid the common cold and influenza. Distribute visual aids such as posters and flyers throughout the office to remind employees of essential sanitation practices. Consistent communication guarantees that all parties remain informed and vigilant.
Protect Your Workforce During Cold and Flu Season with Professional Commercial Cleaning
Preventing colds and viruses in the workplace doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple steps like encouraging vaccinations, cleaning surfaces regularly, and washing hands often can help create a healthier environment. Remember, preventing colds and flu is something everyone needs to work on together. We can help keep your workplace safe by partnering with Ameristar Facility Solutions. Visit ameristarfacilitysolutions.com, call us at (570) 675-5525, or email info@ameristarfacilitysolutions.com to learn more.”