It's no secret that a clean workplace is a healthy workplace. Numerous studies have shown that a clean and well-maintained environment can help to prevent the spread of illness and infectious diseases. But many people don't realize that cleaning and disinfecting are two very different things. Here's a quick overview of the difference between the two and how you can use them to further prevent the spread of illness in your office.

What's the Difference Between Cleaning and Disinfecting?
Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, dust, and other debris from surfaces. This can be done using soap, water, and physical scrubbing. Disinfecting, on the other hand, is the process of killing bacteria and other germs on surfaces. This is usually done with chemicals such as bleach or alcohol.

So why is it important to know the difference between cleaning and disinfecting? Well, simply put, cleaning removes dirt, while disinfecting kills germs. And in a workplace setting, both are important for preventing the spread of illness.

Cleaning should be done regularly to remove all the dirt, dust, and debris that accumulated on surfaces over time. This will help to create a cleaner environment overall. Disinfecting should be done on an as-needed basis, typically after someone has been sick or suspected of an illness outbreak.

Tips for Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Workplace
Now that you know the difference between cleaning and disinfecting, here are some tips for doing both in your workplace:

-Use soap and water for cleaning surfaces whenever possible. Physical scrubbing is still the best way to remove surface dirt and debris. However, if soap and water aren't an option—for example, cleaning up after someone who has vomited or diarrhoea—then you can use a commercial cleaner instead. Just make sure it's one that's designed for use on hard surfaces (i.e., not carpet or upholstery).

-When disinfecting surfaces, always follow the directions on the label of your chosen product. Certain products require longer contact times to be effective (bleach solutions typically need to sit for at least 5 minutes), so read the label carefully before getting started.

-Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces when cleaning and disinfecting. Door handles, light switches, countertops, keyboards, phones, etc., are all hotspots for germs. So take extra care to clean and disinfect these areas often.

-If someone gets sick at work, clean and disinfect all areas that they may have come into contact with—including their desk/workspace, any common areas they may have used (kitchenette, bathrooms), and any shared equipment (phones, laptops).

A clean workplace is a healthy workplace—there's no denying that fact. But many people don't realize that cleaning and disinfecting are two very different things. Cleaning removes dirt while disinfecting kills germs—both are important for preventing the spread of illness in your office. Use these tips to help keep your workplace clean and safe for everyone! We would be glady to discuss how we can put together a proactive cleaning plan that keeps your staff and visitors safe. 

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