What if the rag used to clean your desk had also been used to scrub a bathroom? While it’s not a pleasant thought, this kind of cross-contamination can happen if your cleaning company doesn’t follow strict protocols. Understanding how these issues arise and what should be done to prevent them is essential when selecting a janitorial service.
How Cross-Contamination Happens
Cross-contamination occurs when germs and bacteria are spread between areas due to improper cleaning practices. For instance, without a clear system for handling cleaning tools, a janitor might accidentally use a rag from the restroom to clean your desk. This can easily happen as cleaning staff move through a building, using a single cart stocked with various supplies. If there’s no system for keeping rags or cleaning routes separate, it’s possible for restroom bacteria to make their way onto office surfaces.
Preventing Cross-Contamination: Best Practices
To ensure your workspace stays clean and hygienic, your cleaning provider should implement these three key strategies:
1. Dedicated Cleaning Routes and Equipment
To minimize risks, cleaners should follow clearly defined routes, separating restroom cleaning from office cleaning. Ideally, multiple staff members handle different areas—one person assigned to offices and another to bathrooms and breakrooms. If only one cleaner is available, there should still be a clear division in their tasks, and separate carts or tools should be used for distinct areas. This creates a physical barrier that helps prevent germs from spreading.
2. Rags Assigned to Specific Areas
One of the simplest ways to avoid cross-contamination is to use specific cleaning cloths for specific tasks. Many companies adopt color-coded systems, assigning a particular color (such as red) to restroom surfaces and other colors to offices or breakrooms. Some providers also use disposable cloths or paper towels in bathrooms to further reduce the chances of germs transferring. A consistent, well-thought-out system ensures that cleaning tools stay where they belong.
3. Comprehensive Cleaner Training
Even the best cleaning systems require proper implementation. A reliable cleaning company will train their staff to follow protocols designed to prevent cross-contamination. This training should cover all aspects of the job, including how to use separate cleaning tools, follow designated routes, and handle rags appropriately. New hires should undergo thorough orientation, on-the-job training, and regular follow-ups to ensure procedures are being followed.
Why This Matters for Your Office
The cleaning industry is competitive, with new companies frequently entering the market. Unfortunately, not all of them have the necessary processes or training to ensure safe, effective cleaning practices. This means that, without asking the right questions, you could end up with a cleaning provider that unknowingly spreads germs around your office.
Before hiring a cleaning service, take the time to ask about their systems for preventing cross-contamination. A company with clear policies and well-trained staff will help ensure your office remains clean and safe for everyone.
Final Takeaway
Cross-contamination can turn a cleaning routine into a health hazard, but it’s entirely preventable with the right systems in place. By choosing a janitorial service that prioritizes training, uses designated tools for specific areas, and follows defined cleaning routes, you can rest easy knowing your workspace is hygienic and free from harmful bacteria. Take the time to select a cleaning company that values cleanliness as much as you do.
