Workplace Reopening Checklist For Covid-19

Now that offices are gradually reopening after months of working from home, employee safety has become a top concern. The CDC has advised that regular cleaning, maintenance, and disinfection should be core practices for all establishments, and this system has three essential components. One is to have the right tools; two is to develop the appropriate plan; three is to assign people to execute it.

Here is a guide to making sure you are prepared for this change while navigating this new setup.

#1. Have the right cleaning tools

There are different levels of cleaning: simple cleaning, deep cleaning, and disinfection. Each level will require a different set of materials. Here are some of the items you should have for your office cleaning:

• Paper towels or washable microfibre cloths (make sure to sanitize them after use)
• Nitrile gloves (best option for those allergic to latex gloves)
• Green cleaning spray
• Trash bags
• Disinfecting wipes, spray, or a correctly-diluted bleach solution
• Properly rated respirator mask and protective gown (if you are disinfecting)

 

#2. Prepare a workplace safety and health plan

Routinary cleaning is essential to ensure that your workplace is free from viruses. The first thing you should do is develop a cleaning routine. To do this, here are some steps you can follow.

Step 1: Identify high-traffic areas in the office and think of the many ways that people use that space. That way, you can determine the office hotspots for bacteria and viruses. It will also help you budget your time wisely by identifying what parts of the office to watch out for and what areas do not require as much maintenance.

Step 2: Once you have the list, go through each space one at a time. Note the highly touched places in these areas. Some of the riskiest parts of most rooms include the following:

• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Cabinet pulls and handles
• Tables and work desks
• Countertops
• Backs of chairs

 

Here is a breakdown for each room that you can use as a guide:

In the reception area

• Phones
• Keyboards
• Computer mice
• Digital touchscreen devices
• Desk accessories (staplers, tape dispensers, pen cups, etc.)
• Elevator buttons
• Coat-racks
• Hangers

In the kitchen and break rooms

• Coffee/tea station service items
• Backs of chairs
• Fixtures
• Appliance handles (toaster, fridge, dishwasher, oven, etc.)

In the conference and meeting rooms

• Whiteboard accessories (pens and erasers)
• Technology controls (speakerphone button, remote, etc.)
• Televisions, projectors, and other touch screen devices

In the mail and resource rooms

• Packaging and mail tools (letter openers, box cutters, tape guns, etc.)
• Rolling package bins, carts, and trolleys
• Postage metres, scales, and dedicated shipping computers

In bathrooms

• Door and stall handles
• Changing stations
• Dispensers
• Waste bins
• Bathroom fixtures (toilet handles, faucets, towel and soap dispensers)

 

#3. Implement a cleaning routine and schedule

Based on your list, create office cleanliness and disinfecting plans and follow them religiously. Doing so will ensure a healthy office environment for everyone. 

Do not merely copy cleaning routines from others. Create one that will work in your particular setup. A must-have practice is the daily cleaning of high-touch areas. Do not forget to include things such as window treatments, carpet cleaning, and upholstery cleaning. Also, perform deep sanitation on these surfaces to create a healthy working space for all employees.  

#4. Adjust when necessary

Just because you develop a routine does not mean that the work is complete. Make adjustments whenever necessary. If you believe that you need to make changes to your regular cleaning, consider doing so. 

Here are some instances where you might consider making changes to your cleaning routine:

• When someone from the office gets sick with an infectious disease
• When there is a large-scale event in the office, such as an all-hands meeting or holiday gathering
• When it is the peak season for influenza 

 

Conclusion

The gradual transition to the new normal does not equate to letting your guard down. In fact, the increased number of people you interact with every day means a higher risk for everyone’s health. However, this does not also mean that you should live in fear at all times. Being mindful of what you do and implementing a cleaning plan can provide everyone with peace of mind. 

If you think that getting professional services will help you feel much safer, you can request regular cleaning services from Cleanrite Services. We are a flexible and affordable commercial cleaning company in Medicine Hat, and we will make sure that your office is ready and well-disinfected for another workday. Contact us today to make a reservation.