In the light of the ongoing global health COVID-19 pandemic, we all need to take a closer look at what we’re doing to prevent germs, bacteria, and viruses from spreading in our workplaces.

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness transmitted by infected people’s coughs and sneezes, as well as contact with contaminated hands, surfaces, or objects. Current evidence indicates that COVID-19 can remain contagious on a surface for hours to days, depending on the temperature, humidity, and nature of the material. 

Many studies show the importance of practicing good office hygiene, with or without COVID-19. Maintaining a clean workspace means a healthy environment for your employees and a presentable establishment for clients.

There are some questions that should be asked:

• What disinfection procedures or protocols do you currently have in place for your office?
• What are your plans for keeping yourself and your coworkers safe and protected?
• What parts of the workplace are the most germ-infested and what are the most efficient methods of cleaning and sanitizing these areas?

Generally, each office has its own formalities when it comes to cleaning and disinfection. The latter, usually occurs on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. For safety, each coworker should do their best to avoid contamination. Typically, the areas that are cleaned most frequently and with the greatest attention, are in fact not the ones that are the most unsanitary. The researchers counted bacteria on different surfaces to see which ones were the most germ-laden spots and the list goes as the following:

1. Phone
2. Desktop
3. Water fountain handle
4. Microwave door handle
5. Keyboard