Welcome and thank you for checking out our blog! This post is our ninth in a series of posts that will explore the dirtiest places found in different environments. Environments such as your office, your home, the airport, etc.  Click here to follow us on Facebook or click here to connect with us on LinkedIn to be alerted when those posts become available.

When we think of doctor’s offices, typically that means people that are ill and germs. Doctors and other healthcare professionals try their best to make sure their environment isn’t making others sick. However, there is still a possibility that not all surfaces are getting as clean as possible.

Germs:

While most surfaces in a hotel room are dusted and disinfected, there are other surfaces touched daily that are not being cleaned as often as they should. Most of the germs on these surfaces are due to improper hand washing techniques but can also occur from coughing, sneezing or food/drink:

Doctors and other types of healthcare professionals take extra measures to make sure their office and surfaces are disinfected. However, no one is perfect and there are some surfaces that may harbor lots of germs. Most of the germs on these surfaces are due to improper hand washing techniques but can also occur from coughing or sneezing:

• Drinking fountain
• Door Knobs
• Office supplies (such as pens)
• Keyboards
• Magazines

What can you do to help?

First and foremost, the biggest thing you can do is wash your hands! Make sure you are washing your hands after using the restroom, after sneezing or coughing, and after handling anything that they think may be dirty. Using soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds helps cut down on germs.

Most offices supply hand sanitizer for patients to use. It is a good idea to use hand sanitizer before/after eating, or after sneezing or coughing. It’s also a good idea to use hand sanitizer after touching door knobs or using common items such as pens or magazines.

Don’t sit near patients who are visibly ill, such as coughing and runny nose. If possible, schedule routine visits so that you’re not in the office during cold and flu season.

Keep up with vaccines, including those for flu and pneumonia. These will help protect and guard you from catching any germs!

Make sure the company providing you with cleaning services is taking steps to help you create a healthy office environment. Check the scope of work and see how often items are being cleaned. Ask for an increase in disinfecting during cold and flu seasons and make sure they are using proper disinfectants and procedures.

Octagon Building Care is a leader in commercial cleaning and building solutions for Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas. Follow us on Facebook for more great information.