The last two years have been a challenge for everyone to say the least. The Pandemic has drastically changed the way we work in our day-to-day schedules. Most of us have had to make a sudden adjustment and start working from home vs. going to the office in order to slow the spread of Covid-19.
As the Pandemic is slowly phasing out, companies are now having their employee's coming back to the office. Returning to work is part of the process as we keep moving forward.
Keep up to date with your workplace and review these best practices and tips as you get back to your "new" normal. These tips will help guide you to maintain a healthy shared workspace.
Best Practices for A shared workspace:
1. Provide cleaning and disinfecting products to the workspace sharers:
Have PPE available in workplace if required and/or recommended.
Tip: Make your return to work fun and create "Welcome Back" bags of PPE materials for your office team.
What is PPE?
PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. This is equipment that is worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards.
PPE may include items such as: gloves, safety glasses, non-slip shoes, earplugs, hard hats, respirators, vests, etc.
PPE for shared office space: masks, hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, disinfectant spray, thermometers, tissues and gloves.
2. Face Coverings:
The state of California announced, "masks will no longer be required or unvaccinated individuals, but will be strongly recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings".
Prevent the spread and stay current with your workplace guidelines for wearing a face covering.
Reference this link from the CDC as a mask guidance in your County.
3. Create a Cleaning Program:
Create a cleaning program in your shared workspace. This will ensure cleaning and disinfecting is being done before and after using shared workspaces.
Understand where the high-touch points are around you. Make those areas a high priority when creating a cleaning program. Think about the most frequent rooms utilized such as desk spaces, conference rooms, break rooms, etc.
Learn more on the following tips below for keeping your shared workspace sanitized.
4. Cleaning Materials:
What do I need to know?
Know the proper instructions on how to use the cleaning products, not all products are applied in the same way. Train your team on the SDS guidelines (Safety Data Sheets) if required and/or recommended.
Tip: Office cleaning supplies should not have any harsh chemicals being utilized.
How are they different?
Certain types of disinfectants and sanitizers might not work effectively if visible contamination is not removed. Some sanitizers need to be wet on the surface for a specific amount of time prior to cleaning. Some disinfectants must be wiped on surface with a cloth, and other sanitizers air dry.
Tip: Take the time and do your research to clean in a safe way. Share your knowledge with others.
The new normal goes beyond the basic office cleaning. SWA Services Group is here and can assist companies in evaluating the best service program to fit their specific facility needs.
For a service request, contact us or email me at nadinef@swagreen.com