Date Posted: August 26, 2021

As businesses gradually return to normal after the pandemic, it's crucial to ensure that workplaces are safe for both employees and customers. The health and well-being of everyone involved should be a top priority. Public health guidelines from local, state, and federal agencies provide valuable resources on how to maintain a clean and safe environment.

Cleaning surfaces with hot, soapy water is an effective way to reduce the presence of viruses. Regular cleaning helps lower the risk of illness transmission. High-touch areas like doorknobs, switches, and desks should be cleaned frequently using EPA-approved disinfectants. Whenever possible, use self-opening doors or implement measures to minimize contact with high-touch zones.

Outdoor surfaces such as sidewalks typically don't require sanitizing treatments. A simple wash with soapy water is usually sufficient. However, railings and other commonly touched outdoor surfaces should be regularly sanitized to prevent the spread of germs.

Key Surfaces to Sanitize

Here are some common surfaces that are frequently touched and should be cleaned regularly (this list is not exhaustive, but it includes many important ones):

• Tables
• Doorknobs
• Keyboards
• Toilets
• Light switches
• Countertops
• Handles
• Desks
• Phones
• Faucets and sinks
• Gas pump handles
• Touchscreens
• ATM machines

It’s recommended to clean these surfaces daily or at the end of each shift. In high-traffic areas, more frequent sanitization may be necessary. Providing hand sanitizer in restrooms and encouraging users to spray all touched surfaces upon leaving can help. For large public restrooms, regular janitorial services are essential.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. If soap and water aren’t available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used. At work, employees should wash their hands every two hours if possible.

When selecting a disinfectant, consider its effectiveness and safety. The EPA List N provides a reliable starting point for products approved for use against SARS-CoV-2. Three common types of disinfectants include:

1. Bleach-based products are effective but need to be handled carefully due to their strong fumes and potential skin irritation. Always wear gloves and avoid mixing them with acidic substances.
2. Alcohol-based products with over 65% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol are widely used. They are efficient but flammable, so they should be stored safely. Some formulations include glycol to reduce skin dryness.
3. Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are non-flammable and less irritating to the skin, but they require longer contact time to be effective.

Before using any cleaning agent, always review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to understand the chemical composition and safety precautions. This ensures proper handling and minimizes risks.

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