Creating A Safe Workspace During The Winter Months.

Since Covid-19, working within an office has never been the same. Measures have been put in place so we can all avoid getting ill as much as possible. Employees are more conscientious of their surroundings and employers are providing extra resources to put their worries at ease. But winter is coming back round and the flu season is starting with the possibility of Covid-19 spiking again.

Maintaining a clean and healthy office environment has always been important, but it’s now a top priority. Here are actionable steps employers and employees can take to reduce the spread of illnesses in the workplace this winter.

Tips to Avoid Spreading and Catching Illness at Work

1. Provide Sanitizing Products

Make sanitizing products readily available so employees can clean their desks, equipment, and shared tools after use. This helps prevent the spread of germs on frequently touched surfaces.

2. Minimize Hotdesking

Assign dedicated workspaces whenever possible. If hotdesking is unavoidable, ensure proper cleaning protocols are followed between users to maintain hygiene.

3. Create a Safety Committee

Establish a monthly meeting with a safety committee to evaluate the workspace and address any concerns. Are employees comfortable with the resources provided? Are there areas that need improvement? Regular check-ins can build confidence and ensure ongoing safety.

4. Train Cleaning Staff Effectively

Proper training for cleaning staff is essential. They should know how to use appropriate cleaning agents, follow industry best practices like color coding, and avoid cross-contamination by using separate equipment for high-risk areas.

5. Encourage Remote Work Options

Flexible work-from-home policies can significantly reduce the risk of illness spreading in the office, especially during peak flu season.

6. Utilize Virtual Meetings

Whenever possible, replace in-person meetings with virtual ones using platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. This keeps collaboration strong while reducing physical contact.

7. Promote Frequent Handwashing

Reinforce the importance of handwashing as a daily habit. Ensure employees have access to clean, well-stocked washrooms with soap and hand sanitisers readily available.

How MyTraining Can Help

At MyTraining, we understand the importance of proper cleaning and hygiene, especially during flu season. Our eLearning platform offers comprehensive training for cleaning staff, covering:

Proper use of cleaning agents

Industry best practices (e.g., color coding)

Effective use of cleaning equipment

By equipping cleaning teams with the right skills and knowledge, we help ensure offices remain hygienic and safe. Well-trained cleaners are more confident and motivated, which can reduce sickness rates and boost employee well-being.

If you would like to speak to an advisor at MyTraining, contact us today!

023 9220 7788 | MyTraining.Global | [email protected]