The approaching winter brings not only colder weather but also the annual surge of colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. For workplaces, this means renewed challenges in maintaining hygiene standards. The pandemic taught us valuable lessons about the importance of robust hygiene practices, yet many workplaces are slipping back into pre-pandemic habits. This trend poses risks, not just to health, but also to productivity and morale.
In this blog, we’ll explore how science-led hygiene practices can combat winter’s challenges, why a data-driven approach is vital, and how businesses can invest in a cleaner, healthier future.
Why workplace hygiene matters
The workplace environment significantly impacts employee health and wellbeing. Poor indoor air quality and inadequate cleaning are known contributors to “Sick Building Syndrome” (SBS), where occupants experience symptoms such as headaches, dry throats, or sore eyes without an identifiable cause. Symptoms often worsen with time spent in the building and improve when individuals are away.
The consequences of SBS and poor hygiene extend beyond discomfort:
- Illness-related absenteeism costs businesses billions annually in lost productivity. Research suggests that improving indoor environments can reduce sick leave by 2% and overall absenteeism by 1.5%
- Healthier workplaces correlate with higher motivation and satisfaction. Studies show 69% of building owners report improved engagement after investing in healthier environments
As businesses return to pre-pandemic routines, there’s a risk of neglecting these lessons. Instead, workplaces must adopt rigorous, science-based hygiene strategies, particularly in high-risk winter months.
A data-driven approach to hygiene
Winter presents unique hygiene challenges, as viruses like the flu thrive in warm, humid conditions. High-footfall areas become hotspots for contamination, requiring cleaning protocols that are frequent, targeted, and informed by science. Portfolio’s PRISM programme exemplifies this approach.
PRISM integrates microbiological testing, data analysis, and digital tools to create a tailored cleaning strategy. Using Total Viable Count (TVC) swabbing, it identifies the presence and levels of bacteria in high-contact areas. This data informs cleaning schedules, focusing efforts where they’re needed most.
The PRISM process includes:
- TVC swabbing which involves testing surfaces for microbial contamination, identifying both “good” and “bad” bacteria
- Digital dashboards to log and analyse contamination data to identify trends and hotspots
- Evidence-based cleaning allows you to use insights to schedule cleaning for maximum impact and efficiency
This science-led approach reduces pathogen levels proactively, addressing the root causes of contamination rather than just its symptoms.
Going beyond the surface
Traditional cleaning often focuses on appearances. However, visible cleanliness doesn’t always mean a surface is safe. Harmful microorganisms can linger on high-touch surfaces even after they’ve been cleaned.
TVC swabbing validates cleanliness on a microbiological level. It differentiates between harmless and potentially harmful bacteria, empowering facility managers to:
- Adjust cleaning frequencies based on microbial data
- Prioritise areas with higher bacterial loads, such as door handles, lift buttons, and shared spaces
- Reduce unnecessary cleaning of low-risk areas, saving time and resources
By addressing unseen risks, this approach ensures a safer environment for everyone.
Protecting cleaning operatives
Cleaning operatives are the first line of defence against workplace pathogens but are also at risk of exposure. Employers must provide the tools and support they need to operate safely.
PRISM’s data-driven insights protect cleaning staff by:
- Minimising risk andidentifying high-contamination areas allows operatives to focus efforts where needed, reducing unnecessary exposure
- Streamlining workflows withQR codes and task logs creates transparency, allowing operatives to track progress and avoid redundant tasks
This technology fosters confidence and efficiency, ensuring cleaning is both thorough and safe.
Harnessing technology for winter hygiene
Winter’s increased hygiene demands highlight the value of technology in maintaining safe workplaces. PRISM’s digital dashboard centralises hygiene metrics, enabling real-time monitoring and decision-making.
Key features include:
- Notifications ensure cleaning schedules adapt to occupancy and contamination trends
- QR codes enable operatives to log completed tasks, create an audit trail, and confirm compliance
Such tools empower facility managers to respond proactively to winter’s challenges, ensuring high-traffic areas receive adequate attention during peak illness periods.
The winter hygiene opportunity
Winter provides facility managers (FMs) with a chance to demonstrate their commitment to health and safety by reinforcing hygiene standards. By adopting evidence-based strategies, businesses can protect employees, boost productivity, and build resilience against illness outbreaks.
Key takeaways:
- Data-driven tools like PRISM ensure cleaning efforts are effective and sustainable
- Provide operatives with technology and support to enhance safety and efficiency
- Use real-time data to adjust cleaning schedules based on occupancy and contamination levels
The pandemic taught us the value of science-led hygiene practices. As winter sets in, businesses mustn’t revert to old habits. By embracing innovative tools and maintaining high standards, workplaces can confidently navigate winter’s challenges, ensuring the health and safety of everyone who steps through their doors.
