5 common workplace germ hotspots

Many companies have implemented clean-desk policies and provided hand sanitisers. However, a professional office cleaning company like ThinkFM would know how to maintain surfaces sparkless and safe for your health.

Germs at the office may not only make employees sick, but they can also affect their productivity and even cause them to miss work. In this article, we will outline some of the most common germ hotspots in the workplace, as well as go through some tips on how to keep these areas clean and employees healthy.

1. Desktops and Surfaces

One of the most common germ hotspots in the workplace are desktops and surfaces. Many employees eat at their desks or touch their face throughout the day, transferring germs from their hands to their furniture surfaces. Other common sources of bacteria are office equipment such as phones, keyboards, and computer mice.

To keep desktops and surfaces clean, employees should regularly disinfect these areas with an EPA-approved disinfectant spray or wipe. Employers should also provide hand sanitizer or wipes for staff to use regularly throughout the day. It's important to remind employees to avoid eating at their desks and to wash their hands regularly, especially before and after meals.

2. Toilets

Toilets are another common germ hotspot in the workplace. Bacteria and viruses can be transferred from surfaces such as faucet handles, toilet flush buttons, and door handles. Airborne germs can also spread when toilets are flushed, and can infect other users of the restroom.

To combat the spread of germs in toilets, employers should provide enough hand sanitiser stations, soap dispensers, and disinfectant wipes to keep surfaces, door handles and other germ hotspots neat and bacteria-free. 

Regular cleaning of toilets and washrooms by professional cleaning services is also important to ensure the area is well-maintained.

3. Break Rooms/Kitchens

Break rooms and kitchens are also busy areas where germs can spread and lead to illnesses. Shared appliances such as microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers can harbour bacteria and viruses. It's important to frequently clean these appliances and surfaces with an EPA-approved disinfectant.

In addition, employers should provide disposable utensils and plates, and encourage employees to bring their own reusable cups or utensils to prevent the spread of germs. If employees do bring their utensils or cups, they should make sure to wash them properly before using them again.

4. Elevator Buttons

Another often-overlooked germ hotspot in the workplace is elevator buttons. When employees press them, they can transfer bacteria from their hands to the buttons, and then to other colleagues. Therefore, these areas should be regularly wiped down with a disinfectant wipe or spray.

5. Reception Areas

Reception areas can also harbour germs, as they are the first point of contact for visitors entering the office. Employers should make sure there are always hand sanitisers or wipes at the reception desk for visitors to use, and ensure that the area is regularly cleaned with an EPA-approved disinfectant.

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