The importance of infection prevention in the United States cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Examining the Current State of Infection Prevention
Implementing effective infection prevention programs requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing environmental and behavioral factors.
The purpose of a facility cleaning plan is to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all occupants, and its benefits include reducing the risk of infection and improving the overall appearance and functionality of the facility.
What are the Components of an Effective Facility Cleaning Plan?
An effective facility cleaning plan should include the following components:
Cleaning schedule: A comprehensive cleaning schedule that outlines the frequency and scope of cleaning tasks for all areas of the facility.
There has been a lot of debate over whether paper towels or hand dryers are better for reducing the spread of pathogens in public restrooms--both methods have advantages and disadvantages, and it's difficult to say which is better definitively.
What Spreads More Pathogens--Paper Towels or Hand Dryers?
Research has shown that paper towels effectively remove bacteria and viruses from hands and are less likely to spread germs than hand dryers.
The health impacts of building dampness include respiratory problems and increased risk of infection, highlighting the need for preventive measures such as adequate ventilation, moisture control, and regular maintenance to reduce the risk of dampness-related health issues and structural damage.
Citrus-based cleaning solutions have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are often seen as a more environmentally friendly and safer alternative to traditional cleaning and disinfection products.
What Are Citrus-Based Cleaning Solutions?
Citrus-based cleaning solutions are cleaning products that use natural or synthetic citrus extracts, such as those derived from oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits, as their primary active ingredient.
Fatal cases of norovirus are increasing across the U.S., prompting facilities managers and custodial teams to increase cleaning frequencies and upgrade protocols to halt the spread and protect building occupants.
Norovirus Outbreaks Increasing
Current data shows reports of norovirus infections rapidly increasing across the country.
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted how people work and interact with each other in the workplace, resulting in hybrid working solutions that carry several unique hygiene and sanitation challenges.
The COVID-19 Pandemic Changed Office Workplace Trends
With many businesses and organizations opting for remote work arrangements to help curb the spread of the virus, the traditional office environment has been dramatically altered.
Dust and pests significantly impact facility and occupant health and require consistent hygiene intervention strategies coordinated with safe and sustainable facility maintenance practices to prevent incursion, buildup, and other undesirable outcomes.
Dust and Pests Negatively Impact Building Health
Dust and pests are common nuisances that can negatively impact the health of building occupants and the overall cleanliness of a facility.
The 2022-23 cold & flu season is notable, thus far, for its unparalleled unpredictability that placed an increased burden on the healthcare system, schools, and businesses.
Overview of the 2022-2023 Influenza Season So Far
The 2022-23 influenza season is notable for several anomalies compared to recent years.
The heightened awareness of the importance of hygiene and the need for effective cleaning methods has led to an increased focus on green cleaning.
What is Green Cleaning?
Green cleaning emphasizes using environmentally friendly and sustainable products, equipment, and methods.