People across the world are constantly coming up with new ideas on how to stay safe from coronavirus. But with so much noise, it can be difficult to know whose advice to follow. The change surrounding COVID-19 can be confusing and stressful. So, here are a few effective ideas that every company can implement to create a safe work environment.
Create Your Own Disinfectant
The CDC, or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, provides detailed instructions on how to properly clean and disinfect surfaces to reduce the risk of transfering COVID-19. If you can’t secure EPA-approved disinfectant, you can make your own household bleach solution to disinfect the workplace.
First, check the bleach’s expiration date. Expired bleach may not be effective. Also, before use, double-check the bleach you are using is intended for disinfection and has a sodium hypochlorite concentration of 5% to 6%. Often, bleach used for whitening or safe-use on colored clothes is not suitable in disinfectant solutions. When handling bleach, be sure to wear skin and eye protection to protect yourself from potential splash hazards.
If you are cleaning floors or larger surfaces, the CDC recommends using five tablespoons of bleach per each gallon of water. If you are cleaning smaller surfaces, the CDC suggests using four teaspoons of bleach per quart of water. These solutions should be effective for up to 24 hours and should be left on surfaces for one minute before wiping clean.
For electronic surfaces, you may want to use an alcohol-based disinfectant. Be sure that these solutions contain at least 70% alcohol. And always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning and disinfecting electronics to prevent damage. Many people are beginning to put wipeable covers over items that may be easily damaged during routine disinfection.
Increase Air Circulation
When cleaning and disinfecting your workspace, be aware that various cleaning products and disinfectants can trigger asthma exacerbations. Dust disbursed during the cleaning process can also affect people with asthma or allergies. So, it is important to let everyone know in advance when the workspace will be cleaned and to increase the air circulation in your workplace. You can increase air circulation simply by opening outside doors and windows.
Avoid Aerosol Products
You may want to stop using sprays and aerosol cans in your cleaning and disinfecting routines. They are not only more likely to push dust and allergens around, but they can more easily cause eye, respiratory, and skin irritation. The World Health Organization also cited studies that showed that spraying disinfectants over large areas is ineffective in reducing and killing the COVID-19 virus and other pathogens. So, instead of using spray bottles or aerosol cans, appy cleaning products and disinfectants to paper or cloth rags before use.
