It looks likely that the new NHS national cleaning standards 2021 will form part of the CQC inspections going forward. Practice managers, infection control leads, and cleaning providers should all be aware of the impact this will have on their practices.      

The most notable change is the introduction of the environment rating system, which is a tool that will be used to measure how well a practice is meeting the standards. This will be done through regular inspections by an independent body. The rating system is based on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. 

In order to achieve a rating of 5, practices will need to meet all of the standards set out in the guidance. This includes having a dedicated cleaning team who are trained in infection control, as well as ensuring that all areas of the practice are cleaned on a daily basis. 

Another key change is the introduction of minimum standards for washrooms. These must be met in order for practices to achieve a rating of 4 or above. The standards cover everything from hand-washing facilities to toilet paper storage. 

The new NHS national cleaning standards 2021 are now in effect, and practice managers need to be aware of the changes. By implementing the new standards, practices can ensure that they are providing a clean and safe environment for patients and staff alike. Why not schedule a walkthrough for a free no-obligation cleaning proposal within 24 hours. 

Cold and Flu Season / COVID-19:

How Cleaning and Disinfecting Further Prevent the Spread of Infectious Diseases in the Workplace.

Cold and flu season is coming up, which brings its own set of challenges to the workplace. Combine those seasonal health risks with Covid-19 pandemic risks, and it becomes a lot more complicated than just dealing with Colds or Flu alone! Thankfully there are proven cleaning techniques that help keep your employees healthy in their work environment - like customized programs from Clean Sweep Commercial experts for facilities who want them (we can identify high touch areas too!).

Touch-Points And High Traffic Areas

Clean Sweep Commercial's cleaning routine is focused on the high-touch points of a business. These include light switches, door handles and handrails in places like elevators and other objects that are often touched, such as paper dispensers or break room appliances, for instance!

Cleaning And Disinfection 

Cleaning:

Cleaning is a process that involves removing dirt and impurities from surfaces. Frequently, cleaning with chemicals will involve using surfactants (soap) which can physically remove germs causing illness such as bacteria or viruses to help lower the risk of spreading infectious diseases through contact with an infected surface.

 Disinfection:

On the other hand, disinfecting a surface after cleaning can further lower the risk of spreading infectious bacteria and viruses. Disinfectants don't always remove tough stains or dirt, so be sure to follow your instructions for the best results!

Cleaning your facility is the best way to keep it clean and healthy, but if you want germs taken care of too, then be sure to do both tasks as needed! The first step in keeping things tidy should always involve cleaning surfaces so that dirt doesn't build up on them over time. Afterwards, apply disinfectant as per manufacturers instructions. 

Equipment And Chemicals

Clean Sweep's cleaners are equipped with the latest disinfectant application equipment such as electrostatic sprayers. These devices ensure that no germs or viruses can survive on your surface, making for an effective clean-up process!

Keeping Workplaces COVID Safe 

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises implementing the below six steps:  

• Covid Risk/Method Assessment
• Cleaning, Hygiene and Handwashing
• Ventilation
• Talk to Workers and Provide Information
• Working From Home
• Vulnerable Workers

Clean Sweep Commercial has been a leader in the commercial cleaning business for more than 16 years. We've got extensive experience and processes that can help reduce the spread of infectious diseases. This cold or flu season, be sure to protect your employees and customers by scheduling a walkthrough for a free no-obligation cleaning proposal within 24 hours.