Flu season starts as soon as the weather cools down and lasts for months, sometimes not ending until May. During this period, the influenza virus is at its most contagious, threatening entire workplaces when even one employee gets sick. Fortunately, as a business owner, you can prevent the illness from spreading with these office cleaning and hygiene tips.

5 Ways to Flu-Proof Your Office 

1. Encourage Flu Shots

The most effective way to prevent the spread of influenza is to get an annual flu shot. Encourage your employees to schedule their vaccinations with posters and email reminders. Also, remind them of any health insurance benefits they have related to flu shots, or tell them about local clinics that provide free shots. 

2. Stock up on Hand Sanitizers & Disinfectant Wipes

Fight office germs by placing hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes throughout the workplace, especially in restrooms, breakrooms, and cafeterias. Remind your employees to frequently sanitize their hands and encourage them to clean their work areas with disinfectant wipes at least once a day.

3. Promote Thorough Hand Washing 

Many people fail to wash their hands, increasing their risk of influenza properly. Keep the virus at bay by placing posters in all restrooms that explain how to wash one’s hands thoroughly. According to the CDC, you should wet your hands with clean water, lather with soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse well, and dry with a clean towel or air dryer. 

4. Send Sick Employees Home

When an employee becomes sick, send them home to keep the rest of your staff healthy. Also, try to be understanding of workers who request sick time, and let them from work from home if possible. 

5. Schedule Frequent Office Cleanings

During flu season, you can greatly reduce the risk of employee sickness by scheduling frequent, thorough office cleanings from a professional cleaning company. The experienced cleaners will help eradicate any flu-related germs left in your office, keeping your staff healthy and productive. 

Keep your office free of flu germs by turning to the team at Final Touch Cleaning Services. Based in Dayton, OH, these trusted cleaners serve businesses and homes throughout Vandalia, Tipp City, Troy, Englewood, Centerville, Beavercreek, and Huber Heights. Utilizing a 40-point checklist, they provide thorough office cleaning to leave your workplace sparkling. Learn more about their commercial and residential cleaning services online, and call (937) 521-6243 for a free estimate.