In a pandemic era, cleaning has been pertinent to ensuring the stop of virus spread. Unfortunately, we know that merely cleaning spaces isn’t enough. To truly stop the spread of viruses and bacteria, we must be regularly completing deep cleaning practices.
While there is no standard protocol for what should be included in deep cleaning processes, we have provided a breakdown below of what we should all be doing to stop the spread of germs in the workplace.
What is deep cleaning?
Recently, we have heard the words “deep clean” be used more than ever before. It is vital to not only understand what this means, but what is involved in a deep clean.
Deep cleaning is the complete and routine cleaning process that removes visible dirt, as well as bacteria and germs. The process focuses on frequently touched surfaces and accessible spaces; however, it should also include the regular cleaning of nooks and crannies that may not get frequent use—for example, a bookshelf.
When completing a deep clean, the process usually is two-step. Firstly, those cleaning should physically work to remove dirt and organic matter from surfaces. This will then be followed by the use of disinfectant chemicals to kill germs. It’s essential to clean before disinfecting areas because organic matter and dirt can reduce the ability of disinfectants to kill bacteria.
As a practice, deep cleaning aims to thoroughly disinfect spaces from bacteria and viruses, like the common cold or flu. This process will also aid in the prevention of spreading infections, like COVID-19.
Deep Cleaning for COVID-19
Deep cleaning is not only an action we should employ during this COVID-19 period but is a standard practice we should be integrating into our everyday life.
As part of this process, all organisations should be introducing some easy and actionable daily tasks. High-touch surfaces should be wiped down and disinfected daily. These surfaces might include door-knobs, light-switches, bench surfaces, bathroom fixtures and more. In “hot-spot” areas where many people use the space daily, like an office kitchen or bathroom, hand sanitiser should be made readily available, and all people in this environment should be encouraged to use it regularly. Staff should also be encouraged to wash their hands every few hours.
As part of your office protocol, we would recommend organisations look at solutions to ensure that workstations and equipment are always wiped down after use. This will not only aid in preventing COVID-19 spread but also will assist in preventing the spread of common viruses and colds, creating a healthy environment for staff and increasing productivity levels.
It is essential to review the cleaning products used, as not all disinfectants have the same level of infection control. What this means is that the act of cleaning may remove some of the viruses, but high-grade disinfectants are required to kill germs.
The different types of surfaces that need to be cleaned should also be considered, with reports showing the COVID-19 virus may live longer on certain kinds of surfaces. For this reason, organisations should also review the labels on the products they are using, using directions to determine how long a product needs to be in contact with the surface to work effectively and kill any germs.
Along with the above actions, organisations should not forget to clean any reusable and washable cloths after use and dispose of any single-use cleaning items, like gloves.
In-Tec’s Deep Cleaning Service
If organisations are time-poor, do not have the facilities or are facing a case of COVID-19 in the workplace, they must engage cleaning professionals to conduct a viral-disinfection and deep clean service.
At In-Tec, our deep cleaning agenda is obsessive. We conduct a deep clean that effectively removes dirt and kills viruses including COVID-19, creating a safe and healthy workplace environment. Our team of highly trained cleaners will put your mind at ease and ensure that you are meeting current Safe Work Australia cleaning guidelines.
With over 20 years of experience, we know the difference between something that just looks clean and something that is actually clean. As a tight-knit family business, we also understand the importance of creating a workplace environment that is hygienic and safe for staff. We treat your business as our own, which is why you can place your trust in our team of cleaning experts.
For more information, listen to our Development Manager, Caitlin Schokker, discuss COVID-19 approved deep cleans in a recent interview with Stav, Abby & Matt on B105 Brisbane: