A cough in the meeting room, and every eye politely looks away. Each fall, the office rediscovers that it shares far more than a coffee machine. The fridge handle, for its part, has never known so many hands.
To prepare a workplace for flu season, focus on frequently touched surfaces: door handles, light switches, elevator buttons, counters, taps and shared equipment. Clean them first, then disinfect them with an approved product, respecting the contact time on the label.
1Cleaning is not disinfecting
The two look alike but don't do the same job. Cleaning removes dirt and some germs. Disinfecting goes after those left on an already clean surface, which is why the order matters. In Canada, hard-surface disinfectants carry a Drug Identification Number (DIN), so check for it on the label.
2The surfaces to target first
- Door handles and push bars
- Light switches and elevator buttons
- Taps, dispensers and washrooms
- Break room counters and appliances
- Meeting tables and shared equipment
- Reception counters and payment terminals
3Everyone's part
- Wash hands often, with dispensers kept full
- Keep hand sanitizer at reception and in meeting rooms
- Stay home when sick
- Wash mugs and dishes before sharing them
4Adjusting without overhauling
There's no need to rewrite the whole contract. During fall and winter, a targeted pass over high-touch areas may be enough to reinforce regular cleaning. Healthcare settings follow their own requirements, and this general advice doesn't replace public health guidance.
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