Touchpoint cleaning has become a hot topic, particularly since the onset of COVID-19. Due to the rapid spread of the COVID virus, and other germs and viruses, throughout our public areas and some workplaces, we’ve all become acutely aware of the need to regularly clean and disinfect busy areas.
Did you know? Research has revealed that 79% of the workforce has, at some point, gone to work sick. That’s an alarming statistic, isn’t it?
With this in mind, many facility managers are increasing their focus on touchpoint cleaning to increase confidence among staff and customers that your workplace is a safe and healthy environment.
If you’re an office manager, business manager or school campus manager, you’re probably responsible for touchpoint cleaning. But you may be wondering: How often do we need to do touchpoint cleaning – and which areas should be cleaned and disinfected?
Rest assured, this article will cover the vital tips and details you need to know about touchpoint cleaning.
What defines a touchpoint?
Examples of touchpoints include desks, tables, counters, door handles and door jambs, keyboards, coffee machines, printers, power points and light switches, EFTPOS machines, buttons for elevators and TV remote controls, bathroom taps, toilets and doors, plus various other types of workplace amenities. Basically any item or surface which is touched by multiple people throughout the day.
What exactly is touchpoint cleaning?
Touchpoint cleaning is the specialised system of cleaning and disinfecting areas which are frequently touched and where germs, diseases, viruses and other pathogens accumulate. The purpose of this specialist cleaning method is to keep your surfaces and items free of germs and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.
This ensures you, your fellow workers and your clients have the safest possible environment in which to work, teach or play.
How often should high-touch areas be cleaned and disinfected?
When it comes to the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting of the surfaces many people touch, health authorities state an absolute minimum of once per day is recommended to prevent the spread of illness. If your workplace is attended by the same small group of people each day, cleaning and disinfecting once per day may be effective. However, if you have a constant stream of customers and/or visitors throughout the day, a higher frequency of cleaning and disinfection may be required in such busy environments.
Remember, it’s important to thoroughly clean and dry the surface or item, then use disinfectant to remove the germs.
If the surface isn’t cleaned correctly first, the area will not be properly disinfected, with germs remaining on the surface. It’s important to read the label on your cleaning and disinfectant products carefully, as you may need to adjust your procedures to ensure their effectiveness against germs.
What products should be used to clean and disinfect touchpoints?
Did you know? There is a handy list of disinfectants which have been approved to claim they are effective against COVID-19 when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. You’ll find the list on the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website.
Do I need to take any precautions when cleaning touchpoints?
It’s always a good idea to wear PPE such as disposable gloves and a face mask when cleaning and disinfecting. This helps protect your hands from both the germs AND the chemicals.
After you’ve finished cleaning, remove and dispose of the PPE and sanitise or thoroughly wash your hands to prevent spreading any germs which may have been present on the surface or item you’ve cleaned.
Why take a proactive approach to touchpoint cleaning?
- Safety – Regular cleaning of touchpoints eliminates the spread of germs and viruses, minimising the chances of illness spreading amongst workers and customers.
- Demonstrate you care – A thoroughly clean environment clearly demonstrates that you care about the health and wellbeing of your team and customers.
- Reduced Absenteeism – With less germs being spread, there is a diminished level of infection and fewer sick days, as you have a healthier, more productive team.
- Education – Touchpoint cleaning can be used as an opportunity to educate people about the risk of spreading germs – and how they can minimise this risk by regularly washing their hands correctly.
- Confidence – When regular cleaning and disinfection is assured, customers and workers feel more confident about being in your environment.
Want to know more?
We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about ensuring the touchpoints in your environment are correctly cleaned and disinfected. Feel free to email your questions to: sales@iClean.com.au or call us on 1300 763 356. We look forward to hearing from you.
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