It is estimated that the average Australian
spends 90% or more of their time
indoors, including their homes, offices, cars and shopping/entertainment. This
is especially apparent during colder months, as we huddle inside to escape the
frigid weather. Despite this statistic, there is not enough attention being
paid to how indoor air quality (IAQ) affects our health, especially in the
office space where people spend 8 or more hours every day.
Indoor air quality is crucial in maintaining a
healthy and productive work environment. Poor air quality can lead to a range
of health issues, including allergies and respiratory problems, which can
significantly impact employee well-being and productivity.
During the winter months, when we spend most of
our time indoors, there is a higher chance of spreading disease from one person
to another, and during the upcoming spring months, pollen activity is at its
highest. Regardless of the season, one thing is for certain: commercial spaces
need to invest in proper allergen control through professional commercial office cleaning services to give
their patrons the best chance of staying germ and disease-free.
Understanding
Allergens in the Workplace
Allergens are substances that cause allergic
reactions in individuals who are sensitive to them. Common workplace allergens
include dust mites, pollen, mould spores, pet dander, perfume and certain
chemicals, including cleaning detergents. These allergens can become trapped in
the indoor environment, such as on the fibres of your carpet, leading to poor
air quality and triggering allergies and respiratory issues.
The Role
of Cleaning in Allergen Control
One of the most important things businesses can
do to improve IAQ is to implement a regular cleaning program focusing on
allergen control. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Dusting and Vacuuming: Dust
particles and dust mites are among the biggest contributors to indoor
allergies. Keeping surfaces, including desks, shelves and equipment, clean
through regular dusting with microfiber cloths or damp wipes can minimise
the release of dust into the air. Additionally, vacuuming carpets and
upholstery using vacuums fitted with HEPA filters (High-Efficiency
Particulate Air) can effectively eliminate allergens and improve air
quality.
- Mopping Floors: Hard floors should be regularly
mopped using allergen-friendly cleaning agents. This helps eliminate dust,
pollen, and other allergens that settle on the floor surfaces. Avoid harsh
chemicals that can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can
worsen indoor air quality and trigger allergic reactions.
- Air Duct Cleaning: Over time,
air ducts can accumulate dust, mould and other contaminants, which then
circulate throughout the workplace. Periodic professional air duct
cleaning ensures the removal of these allergens, improving overall air
quality in the workplace.
- Upholstery and Carpet Cleaning: Dust mites
typically live in carpets, upholstered furniture and clothes and feed on
dead human skin. These objects can also accumulate mould (especially in
the humid, subtropical climate of Sydney), pet dander and pollen from
employees' clothes, which then circulate the workplace. Regular deep
cleaning of carpets and upholstered furniture using professional-grade
equipment is essential for allergen control.
- Mould Prevention and Remediation: The last two
summers of La Niña have provided ample opportunity for the growth of mould
in pipes, dark corners and ceilings. Mould exposure can trigger a runny or
blocked nose, eye or skin irritation and, in some cases, mould infections
in the lungs. Poorly ventilated areas require regular inspections, early
detection and prompt remediation to maintain good air quality. Areas
regularly exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens should be
given special care.
Choosing
Allergen-Friendly Cleaning Products
Many cleaning products release volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can irritate the lungs and nasal passages,
causing respiratory inspections. In addition to effective cleaning practices,
it is essential to use allergen-friendly cleaning products. Choose
environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic cleaning products free from harsh
chemicals, fragrances and dyes. These products minimise the release of VOCs and
allergens into the air while cleaning effectively.
Working
with Commercial Cleaning Services
To ensure your office remains clean and
allergen-free, the right expertise and dedicated resources are essential.
Collaborating with a professional commercial cleaning company can provide
numerous benefits, including:
-
Expertise: Professional
cleaning companies have the knowledge and experience to implement effective
allergen control strategies. They stay updated on the latest cleaning
techniques and industry best practices to ensure optimal indoor air quality.
-
Specialised
Equipment: The right commercial cleaning company will come equipped with advanced
tools and equipment that effectively remove allergens from the air and
surfaces. These include vacuums with HEPA filters, steam cleaners and air
purifiers.
-
Consistency and
Reliability: Hiring professional commercial cleaners that work on consistent and
reliable schedules ensures allergen control measures are implemented regularly.
-
Customised
Solutions: A reputable commercial cleaning company can customise their services
to meet your unique needs.
-
Time and Cost
Savings: Outsourcing
cleaning tasks to a professional company allows you to focus on your core
business activities and eliminates the need for an in-house cleaning staff or
cleaning equipment. It also eliminates the costs associated with training the
staff you hire to clean your office effectively.
Commercial cleaning in Sydney Melbourne or for that matter, other states in
Australia is a specialised task best left to the professionals. Because of the
different climates of the different major cities of Australia, choose a
professional cleaning company that understands the unique needs of the
buildings in that climate and how to alter their cleaning programs for maximum
allergen control.
