Allergies in the Office Did you know that every year in Australia, thousands of people suffer from seasonal allergies? Reports indicate that from 2005 to 2018, more than 4 million people suffered from hay fever and allergies. Those figures only seem to be increasing. 

Spring, aka allergy season, can shake things up at the office. Often leading to reduced productivity and increased absenteeism. Allergic symptoms like sneezing and congestion can distract employees from their tasks, while those with severe allergies may need time off. 

To keep everyone happy and healthy, offices often have to make sure the air inside is clean and may need to call the commercial cleaning services in Melbourne to keep things flowing smoothly. 

It’s all about creating a supportive workplace when nature brings the sniffles. In this article, we will learn how you can reduce seasonal allergies in the office. 

• Conducting an Assessment

Before implementing allergy-reduction measures, it’s crucial to assess the work environment. Here’s how to conduct this assessment:

Start by identifying potential allergens in the workplace. These can include 

• dust mites
• pollen
• mould
• pet dander and more

Survey the workspace by walking through it, paying attention to areas where allergens might accumulate, such as carpets, upholstery, and HVAC systems.

Consult with employees to gather information about their allergies and sensitivities. This can help tailor your approach to specific needs. A commercial cleaning company may be able to help you with this process. 

Adding Filters to Ventilation Systems 

Adding filters to ventilation systems is vital because it helps in the following ways:

Trap Airborne Allergens: High-quality filters can capture allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander, preventing them from circulating in the workspace.

Improved Air Quality: Cleaner air can improve indoor air quality, reducing employee allergy symptoms.

Regular Maintenance: Changing filters frequently (typically every 1-3 months) ensures they remain effective. Clogged filters can worsen indoor air quality.

Using Portable Air Purifiers

Portable air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can be beneficial as they remove airborne allergens, making the atmosphere safer for allergy-prone individuals. 

Besides that, they also enhance localised air quality. They’re particularly useful in individual offices or cubicles, where centralised HVAC systems might be less effective.

• Appropriate and Frequent Cleaning 

Regular cleaning of surfaces with allergen-friendly products can prevent the buildup of allergens. Use damp cloths to trap dust instead of dispersing it into the air.

Dusting should be thorough and frequent, especially in areas prone to dust accumulation, like window sills and shelves.

Use vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters to trap allergens. Empty vacuum bags outside to avoid allergen release. If this sounds like too much work, you may consider hiring a commercial cleaning company to do the job for you.

• Keeping Windows and Doors Closed During Peak Allergy Seasons 

Closing windows and doors during high pollen seasons is vital because it prevents outdoor allergens from entering the workspace.

Keeping allergens outside reduces the overall allergen load within the office, relieving allergy sufferers.

Preventing Conditions Conducive to Mold

To prevent mould growth, address conditions like:

Excess Moisture: Fix leaks promptly, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens.

Cleanliness: Regularly inspect and clean areas where mould is likely to grow, such as dark, damp corners.

Proper Storage: Ensure that items are stored in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mould growth on surfaces and materials.

Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Company

Commercial cleaning companies are professional cleaning services that can help reduce allergens in the workplace in several ways:

• Professional Equipment and Techniques 

Commercial cleaning services in Melbourne are equipped with industrial-grade cleaning equipment and employ proven cleaning techniques. This means they can effectively remove allergens from surfaces, carpets, and upholstery that regular cleaning may miss.

• Allergen-Specific Cleaning Products

Many commercial cleaners use specialised products designed to reduce allergen exposure. These products can target common allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mould.

• Thorough Cleaning of Hidden Areas

Allergens can accumulate in hidden or less accessible office areas, such as air ducts, behind furniture, and ceiling tiles. Commercial cleaners have the tools and expertise to address these areas, ensuring a comprehensive clean.

• Regular Cleaning Schedules

Commercial cleaning companies can establish and maintain regular cleaning schedules tailored to your office’s needs. Consistency in cleaning is crucial for long-term allergen reduction.

• Restroom Sanitization

Restrooms can be breeding grounds for mould and mildew, common allergens. Commercial cleaners can thoroughly sanitise and disinfect these areas to prevent allergen buildup.

• Floor Care

Proper floor maintenance, including sweeping, mopping, and buffing, helps reduce allergen accumulation. Commercial cleaners can maintain all types of flooring to minimise allergen exposure.

• Emergency Response

Many commercial cleaning companies can provide emergency response services to prevent further allergen exposure in case of water damage or other incidents that can lead to mould growth.

Conclusion

By consistently maintaining a clean and allergen-free workspace, employees will likely experience fewer allergy-related health issues, resulting in improved overall well-being and productivity.

Incorporating commercial cleaning services in Melbourne into your workplace hygiene strategy can significantly enhance your efforts to reduce allergens and create a healthier, more comfortable office environment for all employees.