Preventing Illness in the Office

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Work families share many things together, offices, supplies and sometimes illnesses. When working in close quarters with others, it’s not surprising that stomach bugs or colds get passed the office.

Germs, bacteria and viruses can spread easily through the air and on surfaces. According to Healthwatch it’s possible for certain viruses and bacteria to live on nonporous surfaces for hours and even days. However, The Mayo Clinic says that, while it’s possible to catch the flu or a cold after handling an object an infected person sneezed or coughed on a few moments ago, personal contact with an infected person such as a handshake or breathing in droplets from a cough or sneeze  is the most common way germs are spread.

While employee’s are often told to stay at home when feeling ill,  it’s not possible to avoid the co-worker’s entirely when they are feeling under the weather, there are some steps that individuals can take to help staunch the spread of illness at home, in school and around the office.

Wash hands regularly

Good hand hygiene is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Hands should be washed before eating, after preparing food, after coughing, after touching items in public areas, and after using the restroom.

Clean hygiene hot spots in the office

It’s impossible to kill every germ in the office, but regular cleaning and disinfecting high-risk areas can prevent illness from spreading, especially when a coworker is ill.

Keep your distance

Steer clear of sick individuals as much as possible. When sick, cover your mouth or nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Discard any used tissues promptly and wash hands afterward.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth when someone in the home is ill. These mucus areas are easily contaminated and can be sources of entry for germs.

Disinfect periodically

Some evidence suggests that eradicating all germs can affect the body’s natural ability to fight infection. Therefore, routinely clean with soap and water, but do not overdo it with regard to your use of chemical disinfectants or hand sanitizers.

If all these steps have been taken and your employees are still ill you may be experiencing ‘Sick Building Syndrome.’  Sick Building Syndrome is a condition affecting office workers, typically marked by headaches and respiratory problems, attributed to unhealthy or stressful factors in the working environment such as poor ventilation.  If your office is experience these systems call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lexington / Thomasville.  Our technicians are experienced in all aspects of cleaning and can get your staff back to feeling better in no time.