Cleaning specialist: four key things to look for as businesses reopen

For the past several months, people across the country have been sheltering at home to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. It is no surprise that many consumers are now nervous about rejoining their communities and re-entering public spaces. A recent nationally recognized survey reported that 89 percent of consumers were hesitant about visiting a brick-and-mortar business, and 40 percent cited cleanliness as a top concern.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the definition of clean. As the country slowly begins to reopen, local professional cleaning specialists Ray and JoAnn Hopkins from SERVPRO of Sussex County note four things people should look for when they re-enter their community to help ensure they are stepping into a healthy environment.

Look for signs of clean.

When first walking into a building, immediately take inventory of whether the space has been cleaned recently. A clean space should be free of visible dirt and trash. Fingerprints on doors and windows, and stains on countertops and tables may indicate a relaxed attitude toward cleaning. High-touch surfaces should be disinfected regularly. Standalone sanitation stations are a good sign that preventing the spread of germs is a priority. Notice physical signage stating when the space was last cleaned, who is servicing the facility, or details of a regular cleaning regimen. Many businesses are also hanging signage to remind guests and employees of proper social distancing standards.

What adjustments have staff made?

Everyone has a responsibility to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The staff of retail businesses, restaurants, or community centers should be properly trained in CDC-approved cleaning methods. If employees are not using proper techniques or products, it might be because of a lack of proper training. Likewise, look for staff who are wearing gloves and masks, and who are practicing safe distancing when interacting with customers. It is obvious when the business is not protecting its employees. People should not come before profits.

What adjustments has the business made to the physical space?

Many businesses and facilities have made physical changes to their buildings to help reduce the risk of spreading illness. The business may adjust the traffic flow of patrons to prevent congested areas. Contactless points-of-sale are becoming more common, and many businesses are constructing barriers between employees and guests. Some are even adding markers on floors to indicate safe distances. One good way to help prevent the spread of infection is to reduce the number of touch points, such as propping doors open, and opening windows to increase airflow. Some businesses are going a step further and reducing the number of guests allowed inside the space at one time. 

Does it look like “business as usual?”

If a facility is still operating in the way it did before the coronavirus pandemic, there is a good chance the managers or staff are not taking the illness seriously and are not prioritizing the health of their employees and guests. Many have reduced their hours of operation or offered times when they are open only for at-risk individuals, such as senior citizens or those who are immune-compromised. Before stepping out the door, check the company’s social media pages or their website for communications about their hours and the steps they are taking to protect patrons. These locations should be following federal, state, and local mandates with regard to safety. 

Reopening America requires everyone to move forward together by practicing social distancing and other daily habits to help reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus.

“We see it as our duty - not our job - to inspire confidence with consumers and employees by helping ensure businesses are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,” Hopkins said. “Whether it is an office building, restaurant, retail space, event center, school, daycare, or any other location, we’re here to help - 24 hours a day, seven days a week - the communities we call home.

“Just because a company is the expert in their business doesn’t mean they are experts in clean. We are trained and experienced - our business is ‘clean,’” added Hopkins. “If a facility has the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal, you can rest assured it has been taken to a higher level of clean.”

SERVPRO specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO of Sussex County, contact 302-856-9768 or office@servpro5930.com. For more information on the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, visit www.servpro.com.