Even in the cleanest workplace, common touchpoints can sometimes be overlooked or not cleaned often enough. Common touchpoints are surfaces which are frequently touched by lots of different people so they can harbour more dirt and germs than other surfaces. These germs will multiply if touchpoints are not cleaned and disinfected properly and regularly. Examples of some common touchpoints in the workplace are:
- Light switches
- Door handles (internal and external)
- Door push areas (some doors have no handles)
- Lift buttons
- Stair handrails
- Photo copier machines
- Taps in bathrooms and kitchens
- Microwave buttons
- Fridge doorhandle
- Tills
- Kettle handle
- Toaster knobs
- Tables and chairs in meeting rooms
- Coffee machines
Most of us touch these common touchpoints in the workplace probably several times throughout the day. We can’t wash our hands immediately, every single time we touch one of these surfaces, this would not only be impractical but probably impossible, so it is very important that these surfaces are kept really clean and are sanitised regularly. This along with thorough hand washing when necessary, will help to prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
How to clean common touchpoints
Ideally, common touchpoints should be wiped down and sanitised at least once a day, or more if your workplace has a high volume of staff or visitors. The best way to clean and sanitise these areas is by using a good disinfectant spray and a microfibre cloth. Good quality microfibre cloths have been proven to pick up to 98% of bacteria using only water. They come in several colours so can be colour coded for a more hygienic way of cleaning. It’s also important to wear some sort of protective gloves to prevent transfer of any germs etc. onto your hands whilst cleaning.
To try to minimise the spread of germs, bacteria and viruses, it is a good idea to offer anti-bacterial gels in areas such as toilets and kitchens especially, as there are so many common touchpoints in these areas.
In Summary
Dirty touchpoints can very easily transfer germs from one person to another. Touchpoint cleaning and sanitising is essential to help ensure a clean and hygienic workplace. This contributes to the overall health and wellbeing of all staff and promotes better staff morale, resulting in a more positive and productive work environment.