Your office is a breeding ground for germs. What can you do to keep your employees healthy?

1 Clean your desk regularly

Your desk is where you do most of your work, but it's also where you eat, drink, and touch many objects that can harbor germs. To keep your desk germ-free, you should clean it at least once a week with disinfectant wipes or spray. Pay attention to the areas that you touch frequently, such as your keyboard, mouse, phone, and pens. You should also avoid eating at your desk, as crumbs and spills can attract pests and bacteria. If you do eat at your desk, make sure to wipe it down afterwards and wash your hands before and after.

2 Wash your hands often

Your hands are the main carriers of germs, as you touch many surfaces and people throughout the day. Washing your hands regularly with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of germs and diseases. You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before and after eating, and after sneezing or coughing. You should also use hand sanitizer or alcohol-based rubs when soap and water are not available. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer on your desk and use it frequently.

3 Sanitize common areas

Common areas, such as the kitchen, the bathroom, the break room, and the conference room, are where most of the germs are shared among employees. These areas should be cleaned and sanitized daily by a professional office cleaning service or by designated staff members. You should also wipe down any shared equipment or appliances, such as the microwave, the fridge, the coffee maker, and the printer, with disinfectant wipes before and after using them. Additionally, you should avoid sharing cups, utensils, or food with your coworkers, as this can increase the risk of cross-contamination.

4 Ventilate your office

Poor ventilation can create a stuffy and unhealthy environment for your employees. Germs can thrive in stagnant air and cause respiratory problems, such as asthma, allergies, and colds. To improve the air quality and circulation in your office, you should open the windows and doors whenever possible, or use fans or air purifiers. You should also change the filters of your heating and cooling systems regularly and monitor the humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew growth.