Commercial Cleaning Protocols: Best Practices for Sanitation and Hygiene

Ever since COVID-19, trying to maintain rigorous cleaning and disinfecting protocols at commercial facilities is more important than ever before. Trying to prevent the transmission of illnesses while at the same time keeping spaces safe and welcoming for occupants requires strategic sanitation best practices. 

Daily Cleaning Regimens 

Regular, thorough daily cleaning really is the foundation of commercial facility sanitation. High-touch common surfaces like door handles, railings, elevator buttons, counters, tables, desks, and chairs should all be disinfected a few times each day. Bathrooms obviously require more vigilant attention with sink and toilet sanitizing as well as soap, towels, and toilet paper replenishment. Trash removal and floor cleaning also need to be addressed daily. To that end, you should create a detailed checklist of all high-touch areas and assign cleaning responsibilities to relevant staff throughout the day.

Providing adequate supplies and standard procedures lets these staff members complete the tasks consistently. According to the good folk at All Pro Cleaning Systems though, specialized disinfectant misting, whole-room sanitizing, and other heavy-duty virus prevention measures should be taken care of by professional commercial cleaning services with expertise in safety protocols. Schedule deep disinfecting services on a weekly or monthly basis as needed.

Equipment and Supply Provisions

Cleaning staff need sufficient supplies of approved disinfectants, sanitizers, and personal protective equipment (PPE) to get their jobs sone effectively. Provide EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectants and non-irritating skin sanitizers. Masks, gloves, face shields, and gowns allow staff to clean safely. Ample garbage bags let waste be disposed of frequently, while commercial-grade cleaning tools like microfiber cloths, durable mops, and vacuum cleaners enable efficient surface cleaning.

Inventory should be well-stocked, so designate a supervisor to manage supplies and order replacements regularly. Product application should also be monitored for training purposes. Cleaning staff need to understand proper disinfectant dilution ratios and sanitizer contact times for maximum pathogen reduction. A reputable commercial cleaning service can advise on recommended supplies and help establish inventory systems.

Technical Cleaning Solutions

Advanced technologies also bolster cleaning effectiveness in commercial facilities. Ultraviolet-C light systems deactivate viruses and bacteria on surfaces and in occupied spaces overnight. Added air scrubbing and negative air machines improve filtration. Antimicrobial surface treatments applied by professional services supplement disinfectant application.

Though these technical solutions require investment, they provide ongoing protection that complements manual cleaning enormously. Facility managers should consult industrial hygiene specialists to determine which solutions are right for their unique needs and budgets. Leasing options can allow you to try out new tech as well.

Cleaning Technique Training 

Effective sanitation relies on proper training in cleaning techniques. All custodial personnel should complete instruction in cross-contamination prevention with color-coded microfiber cloths and mops designated only for restrooms or kitchens. Disinfectant application training ensures total surface coverage and optimal wet contact time. Staff also need up-to-date guidance on hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and social distancing while cleaning.

Refresher training should be provided periodically as protocols evolve. Commercial cleaning services often offer training programs supporting Continuing Education Units to help custodial staff stay up to date on techniques. Take advantage of these offerings or arrange an annual on-site training session.

Inspecting and Reporting on Completed Cleaning

To confirm consistent compliance with cleaning protocols, supervisors should regularly inspect spaces after custodial work is complete. Deficiencies should be noted and reviewed with staff to improve quality. Cleaning logs recording completed tasks also provide helpful accountability.

Consider rewarding high inspection scores or implementing friendly monthly competitions to motivate staff productivity. Reporting cleaning statistics at safety committee meetings allows input on potential improvements too.

Conclusion

Rigorous cleaning regimens, ample supplies, advanced solutions, and staff training together build a comprehensive infection control strategy for commercial facilities. With consistent cleaning procedures and the support of professional commercial cleaning services for specialized disinfecting needs, businesses can provide cleaner, healthier environments for occupants while instilling confidence.