(Originally Published December 09, 2019)


In this article, we will discuss how to prevent the flu at work by keeping the office clean.


Effective office cleaning can make a world of difference when it comes to preventing the spread of illness. Kitchener Clean offers a variety of cleaning services and can customize a cleaning plan that will suit your unique requirements - contact us today to get started.


To prevent the flu at work, everything from sanitizing your computer keyboard to a deep clean of carpets and floors goes a long way. Let’s take a closer look now.


Prevent The Flu at Work: 7 Office Cleaning Tips


1. Stock Up On Disinfectants


Keep plenty of bottles of hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes well positioned around the office. Encourage your employees to use these supplies to reduce their risk of the flu.


This is especially important in an open office setting where employees share computers. The keyboard, mouse, and workstation should be wiped down every time there’s a change in personnel.


You should also clean and disinfect surfaces in the office that are commonly touched, including door knobs, light switches, remotes, tablets, bathroom sinks and taps.


Non-toxic cleaning is just as effective at reducing germs at work too, despite what people may think about 'green' products.


Remember: The more often a surface or object is touched, the higher its risk for carrying viruses like the flu



2. Post Reminders For Hand washing


It should go without saying that hand washing is particularly important during flu season - but sometimes, employees need a reminder!


Infections spread when people touch something that has been contaminated with a virus, and then touch their mouth, eyes, or nose with their unwashed hands.


People who are infected with a virus can also spread the virus to other people by touching them with unwashed hands.


Follow these simple guidelines courtesy of the Region of Waterloo:

  • Wash your hands often and thoroughly throughout the day
  1. Use warm water and soap, then lather and scrub for at least 15 seconds
  2. Rinse hands under warm, running water
  3. Dry hands using a clean towel

Want to get this poster for your office? You can download it here!


3. Schedule a Deep Cleaning


One of the best ways to keep your office clean and safe from flu viruses is by hiring with a professional commercial cleaning company.


A clean office environment can help you significantly reduce germs, and help stop their spread. Proper cleaning can also help stop the spread of food-borne illnesses that may end up in your office kitchen and bathrooms.


Working with the professionals is the best way to get your office cleaner - and more sanitary - than ever before.


That's because commercial cleaners have the experience, know-how, the tools and specialized materials to thoroughly clean and sanitize your workspace.


A regularly sanitized workplace can ensure that cold and flu germs do not easily spread, even if a worker or customer comes in with a cough!


4. Cut Down On Office Functions


This can be tricky around the holidays, but office events with shared food and beverages are particularly risky during flu season. Getting everyone in close proximity and handling these items is an easy way to spread the flu.


It’s therefore a good idea to cut back until flu season passes, or think of other creative ways to boost morale.


5. Hold Flu Prevention Meetings


Education is key, and it’s good to gather your employees to remind them of steps they can take to prevent the flu at work.


Remind everyone about the importance of washing hands, sanitizing, and sneezing and coughing into elbows or using a tissue to cover mouths and noses to prevent germs from going into the air or onto hands.


6. Encourage Absence When Warranted


According to one report, 66% of workers still go to work if they are sick!


When flu season comes around, therefore, your employees might get apprehensive about coming to work based on the possible exposure. Many workers don't take their symptoms seriously and come to work sick in a misguided attempt to “power through.” This can quickly and easily spread cold and flu germs to other workers.


If an employee is sick, it’s a much better idea to send them home than risk infecting the entire office.


Help prevent the flu at work by staying home if you have it!


7. Encourage Flu Shots


The best defense against the flu is vaccination. There are clinics that offer the shot, and some offices even host a registered nurse to get it done for their employees.


High risk individuals in work settings are especially encouraged to get the flu shot. That includes:

  • Adults ages 65 and older
  • Pregnant women
  • Those with a chronic illness or who are immunocompromised
  • People who are in contact with those at high-risk
  • Healthcare workers and other care providers
  • Child care workers

No one is obligated to take this step, but it’s highly encouraged.


The best defence against the flu is vaccination


Trust Kitchener Clean To Help Prevent The Flu At Work


Choosing a commercial cleaning company that works to complete regular, thorough cleaning of your office space can help ensure your office is cleaner than ever, and that you and your employees feel better than ever!


The best way to keep everyone in your office safe and healthy is by consistent cleaning. Hiring a cleaning service will help maintain kitchen appliances and help keep your kitchen and office clean with office compost services!


At Kitchener Clean, we care about your office, your staff, and the environment. That's why all of our cleaning products are non-toxic to ensure the safety of your staff.


Kitchener Clean always uses the highest quality EcoLogo or Green Seal certified products when possible in your office. EcoLogo is North America’s largest, most respected environmental standard and certification mark.


EcoLogo provides customers with the assurance that the products and services bearing the logo meet stringent standards of environmental leadership. Using green, non-toxic cleaning products means that everyone in your office can breathe easy without worrying about harsh chemicals or allergic sensitivities.


“The team at Wroute Inc has been extremely pleased with the professional office cleaning service provided at our 9000 sq ft facility. From the start of our partnership with Kitchener Clean, they have gone above the call of duty to ensure their service meets our expectations while also having amazing team members completing their weekly assignments. I would only expect the same expert service to be offered should they be selected to be your preferred office cleaning contractor.”
- Frank Bourdon